Land and Water Conservation Fund
The Land and Water Conservation Fund from the Division of Outdoor Recreation funds science-driven projects to acquire, develop, and conserve Utah's public outdoor recreation spaces for lasting public benefit.
Funder: Division of Outdoor Recreation
Due Dates: July 15, 2027 (application opens) | September 1, 2027 (application closes)
Funding Amounts: $200,000–$2,000,000 per project; 50% match required (in-kind allowed)
Summary: Supports acquisition and development of outdoor recreation spaces across Utah to expand access, preserve natural landscapes, and ensure public benefit in perpetuity.
Key Information: Projects must guarantee public access in perpetuity and comply with federal NEPA requirements.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), administered by Utah's Division of Outdoor Recreation, provides competitive matching grants for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation spaces throughout Utah. The program's core mission is to help communities protect public lands, establish new parks, enhance recreational facilities, and ensure equitable, lasting access to outdoor activities. LWCF projects must remain publicly accessible in perpetuity, reinforcing a commitment to stewardship and public benefit for generations to come.
LWCF funding is available for a range of project types, including property acquisition, facility development, or a combination of both. Projects are evaluated based on alignment with Utah's Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), which prioritizes community health, equitable access, conservation of land, air, and water, and community connectivity. All applications undergo a federal compliance review, including environmental and cultural/historic assessments per the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
