Land & Water Conservation Fund
Forecasted
Land & Water Conservation Fund supports Iowa county conservation boards and cities in acquiring recreation land and developing or renovating facilities to meet local needs and statewide recreation priorities.
Funder: Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $250,000 per local project annually; reimbursement of up to 50% of eligible costs
Summary: Supports Iowa public outdoor recreation land acquisition, facility development, and renovation aligned with statewide recreation priorities.
Key Information: Assisted property must remain open to the public for outdoor recreation in perpetuity.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federally funded program administered nationally by the National Park Service (NPS) and in Iowa by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Its local share supports county conservation boards and incorporated cities in acquiring land and waters for public outdoor recreation, developing new facilities, and renovating existing facilities. Projects may combine acquisition and development.
Funded work must align with Iowa’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), including the 2023–2028 plan, Outdoor Recreation in Iowa. The program connects local recreation needs with statewide priorities and supports locally led projects, public participation, and recreation opportunities in underserved communities. Recent popular projects include skate parks, playgrounds, swimming pools, campgrounds, and multipurpose trails.
