Land and Water Conservation Fund
Land and Water Conservation Fund supports Maine government agencies in acquiring, developing, and renovating public outdoor recreation areas and facilities to create and maintain lasting recreation resources.
Funder: Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry
Due Dates: June 26, 2026, 5 p.m. (2026 application) | December 31, 2026, 11:59 p.m. (FY2027 eligibility assessment request) | June 25, 2027 (2027 application)
Funding Amounts: Up to 50% of allowable project costs; no minimum award; 2027 maximum award forthcoming
Summary: Supports Maine government jurisdictions in acquiring, developing, and renovating public outdoor recreation areas and facilities.
Key Information: Funded sites must be maintained for public outdoor recreation in perpetuity.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) supports the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Established under the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1964, it is administered federally by the National Park Service and in Maine by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Bureau of Parks and Lands. The program seeks to create and maintain high-quality recreation resources while stimulating non-federal investment in their protection and maintenance.
Maine’s program supports acquisition, new development, combined acquisition and development, and renovation of existing parks. Funding may support a defined portion of a larger project. The Maine State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) identifies recreation needs and broad priorities for LWCF spending, helping applicants connect proposed facilities with statewide and local recreation needs.
