Land and Water Conservation Fund
Forecasted
Land and Water Conservation Fund supports Indiana local governments in acquiring, developing, and renovating public outdoor recreation sites to meet community needs and conserve land and natural resources.
This grant was recently updated
The next local LWCF funding round will be available in calendar year 2028, with applications beginning in 2027. The application cycle may change to allow earlier federal submission of state-selected projects; additional details will be posted in the coming months.
Funder: Indiana Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2027 (Pre-application meeting) | August 2027 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: $250,000–$1,000,000; up to 50% of total project costs; maximum five-year grant period
Summary: Supports Indiana local governments in acquiring, developing, and renovating public outdoor recreation sites and facilities.
Key Information: Assisted properties must remain protected for public outdoor recreation in perpetuity through a federal deed encumbrance.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) helps Indiana local governments expand public outdoor recreation while conserving land and natural resources. The National Park Service administers the federal program, and Indiana DNR’s Division of State Parks, Community Grants and Trails administers local grants. Funding supports new parks, additions to existing parks, and construction or renovation of outdoor recreation facilities.
Eligible work includes park and natural-area acquisition, trails, playgrounds, sports fields and courts, picnic areas, campgrounds, boating and swimming facilities, fishing and hunting areas, nature centers, interpretive facilities, and supporting park infrastructure. Projects should respond to public input and community needs identified through local recreation planning. Accessibility and meeting local needs receive the highest selection priority.
