Land & Water Conservation Fund Recreation Grants
Forecasted
Land & Water Conservation Fund Recreation Grants support Montana governments in creating and improving public outdoor recreation areas to expand access and preserve them for long-term public use.
Funder: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Pre-application) | November 2027 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Reimbursement of up to 50% of eligible project expenses; 18-month grant period
Summary: Matching grants help Montana governments create and improve public outdoor recreation areas.
Key Information: Funded sites must be maintained for public outdoor recreation in perpetuity.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federal program administered in Montana by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP). It provides matching grants to state, tribal, and local governments to create, expand, or renovate public outdoor recreation areas. Projects may include parks, ball fields, outdoor municipal pools, playgrounds, picnic facilities, and walking trails.
Montana’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan guides the state’s use of LWCF funding. The 2026–2030 plan emphasizes trail connectivity, access and inclusivity, facility modernization, conservation, economic vitality, and stewardship. The program has funded more than 800 Montana projects since 1964.
