Land and Water Conservation Fund
The LWCF grant supports Ohio government projects to acquire, develop, or rehabilitate public outdoor recreation areas, prioritizing environmental protection and expanded public access.
Funder: Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2026 (full application, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $500,000 per project (50% reimbursement; minimum $50,000); annual cycle; typical match required.
Summary: Supports Ohio state and local governments with up to 50% reimbursement for acquisition, development, or rehabilitation of public outdoor recreational areas.
Key Information: Property must be dedicated to public outdoor recreation in perpetuity; only government subdivisions eligible.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant program is administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) in partnership with the National Park Service. It provides financial assistance to Ohio state and local government subdivisions for the acquisition, development, and rehabilitation of public outdoor recreational areas. Grants are awarded on a reimbursement basis, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs, with the remainder provided by the applicant through cash, in-kind contributions, or eligible donations. The program is designed to expand and enhance public access to outdoor spaces, protect natural resources, and support the development of park and recreation infrastructure across Ohio.
Eligible projects include acquisition of parkland, development or improvement of recreational facilities, and rehabilitation of existing outdoor recreation amenities. All supported properties must remain dedicated to public outdoor recreation in perpetuity and display permanent project acknowledgement signage. Projects must align with the priorities in the Ohio Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
