Land and Water Conservation Fund
The Land and Water Conservation Fund by Maine DACF supports acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation facilities to enhance conservation and access across Maine.
Funder: Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry
Due Dates: June 26, 2026 (Full application) | December 31, 2026 (Project Eligibility Assessment request) | June 25, 2027 (Full application, FY2027 cycle) | June 26, 2027 (Annual application closing)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,000,000 per project; 50% match required; total program funding $2.5M (2026 cycle)
Summary: Supports acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation facilities in Maine by state, county, municipal, school district, and tribal governments.
Key Information: Applicants must request a project eligibility assessment before applying; projects must be open to the public in perpetuity.
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 matching grants to eligible government entities for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation facilities. The program aims to enhance access to outdoor spaces, foster recreation, and support long-term conservation and community well-being. Projects may include park acquisition, facility development, renovation, and infrastructure to support outdoor recreation, provided they remain accessible to the public in perpetuity.
