Grants and Community Recreation
Forecasted
The Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry’s Grants and Community Recreation program funds science-based development and restoration of parks and trails to enhance public outdoor recreation across Maine.
Funder: Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (LWCF eligibility assessment) | June 2027 (LWCF application) | July 2027 (Maine Trails Program application)
Funding Amounts: LWCF: Up to $1,000,000 per project (50% match required) | Maine Trails Program: Up to $250,000 per project (90% funding, 10% match) | RTP: Up to 80% of project costs, state maximums may apply
Summary: Supports Maine municipalities, government subdivisions, and nonprofits in developing, restoring, and expanding community recreation and trail facilities through multiple state and federal grant programs.
Key Information: All dates are projected; confirm timelines and requirements on the program page.
Description
The Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry’s Grants and Community Recreation initiative offers a suite of grant programs to support the enhancement of local recreation opportunities across Maine. These programs fund the development, restoration, and acquisition of public outdoor recreation facilities, including community parks and diverse trail projects. The initiative also provides technical assistance on recreation planning, facility development, and grant administration, acting as a liaison with state and national recreation organizations.
Key programs administered include:
- Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF): Federal funding for acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas.
- Maine Trails Program (MTP): State funding for motorized, nonmotorized, and multi-use trail projects.
- Recreational Trails Program (RTP): Federal funding for trail construction, maintenance, and restoration.
