DNR Announces Grants Are Available from Land and Water Conservation Fund

From State DNR Sources 

STATEWIDE -- Applications are now being accepted for matching grants from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which recently became permanently reauthorized.

The LWCF provides up to $250,000 in matching grant assistance for land acquisition and development of outdoor recreation facilities for public parks. Examples of eligible LWCF facilities include trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, splash pads, ballfields/courts, campgrounds, canoe/kayak launches, natural areas and nature centers, as well as support facilities (e.g., restrooms, parking, etc.).

In 2018, the DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation received LWCF applications for 13 local park projects and anticipates funding each of these projects, along with two State projects. Total grant funding for these projects will exceed $3.1 million. Grant funding for 2019 is expected to remain at this level.

All facilities developed with LWCF assistance must be accessible to persons with disabilities. In addition, all land acquired or developed with LWCF funds must always remain in outdoor recreation use.

To be eligible for LWCF funding, park and recreation boards must have a current five-year parks and recreation master plan on file with the Division of Outdoor Recreation. Applications for the 2019 LWCF grant round are due June 1.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss potential projects with the Division of Outdoor Recreation before submitting an application. The LWCF manual online provides guidelines and the application.

For more information about the LWCF program, including a link to the LWCF manual, seednr.IN.gov/4071.htm. General information about the LWCF is at nps.gov/subjects/lwcf/index.htm.