Outdoor Recreation Grant Program

Outdoor Recreation Grant Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Amount: US $50,000 - US $350,000
Last Updated: February 07, 2026

Summary

The Outdoor Recreation Grant Program offers matching grants to local governments for up to 50% of the costs related to acquiring, developing, or redeveloping local parks and recreation areas. Applicants can submit multiple proposals, but only one application per park is allowed. Funding sources include federal and state funds, with at least $2.5 million expected for FY 2026 from the Land and Water Conservation Fund and additional state funding subject to legislative approval.

Overview

How it works The Outdoor Recreation Grant Program provides matching grants to local units of government for up to 50% of the cost of acquisition, development and/or redevelopment of local parks and recreation areas. Only one park may be included in an application and only one application per park. Applicants are eligible to submit more than one application and receive more than one grant. Significant progress must be completed on active projects before an additional proposal can be submitted. There are two sources of funding for the Outdoor Recreation Grant Program: federal and state funds. Federal funds come from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Federal funding available for FY 2026 has not yet been allocated but should be at least $2.5 million for the Outdoor Recreation Grant Program and the Natural and Scenic Areas Grant Program. State funding available for FY 2026 is a portion of $1.1 million from “In Lieu Of” lottery proceeds available for three Park and Trail grant programs. Additional state Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund dollars may be recommended by the Legislative Citizens Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) opens in a new browser tab. Other state funding may be available but is subject to Legislative approval. Final amounts available will not be known until after the legislative session ends.

Eligibility

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