Land and Water Conservation Fund
The Land and Water Conservation Fund supports science-based acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation facilities in Maine, promoting stewardship and sustainable access to natural resources.
Funder: Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry
Due Dates: December 31, 2025: Project eligibility assessment request deadline | June 26, 2026: Full application deadline for the 2026 LWCF grant cycle | June 25, 2027: Full application deadline for the 2027 LWCF grant cycle
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,000,000 per project (2026 cycle); grant covers up to 50% of eligible project costs; no minimum award but projects under $20,000 require prior discussion with grant manager.
Summary: Supports acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation facilities in Maine to enhance access and stewardship of natural resources.
Key Information: Eligibility assessment/site inspection must be requested by Dec 31 of the year prior to application.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), administered in Maine by the Bureau of Parks and Lands within the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, provides grants to support the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation facilities. The program aims to expand and improve access to outdoor spaces, fostering healthy communities and long-term stewardship of Maine’s natural resources. Funding is available for both land acquisition and facility development projects that serve the public and align with statewide outdoor recreation priorities.
