Massachusetts Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program
Massachusetts Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program supports municipalities, state agencies, and tribes with land acquisition, park improvements, and trails to expand and maintain public outdoor recreation.
Funder: Division of Conservation Services
Due Dates: December 4, 2026 (Appraisal coordination) | January 5, 2027 (Application) | March 1, 2027 (Appraisal report) | April 14, 2027 (Permits)
Funding Amounts: $50,000–$1,000,000; reimbursement up to 50% of eligible project costs; completion by December 31, 2029
Summary: Supports Massachusetts public outdoor recreation through land acquisition, park development and renovation, and trail projects.
Key Information: Recipients must finance projects upfront, and assisted land must remain publicly accessible conservation or recreation land in perpetuity.
Description
The Massachusetts Division of Conservation Services (DCS), within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), administers the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund on behalf of the National Park Service (NPS). The program funds acquisition of parkland or conservation land, creation of new parks, renovation of existing parks, and trail development in existing conservation or recreation areas.
The program seeks to create and maintain high-quality public outdoor recreation areas while stimulating non-federal investment in their protection and maintenance. Priorities include water-based recreation, connected trails, neighborhood parks benefiting underserved populations, and access to protected natural areas. Climate-resilient site selection and park design, accessibility beyond minimum legal requirements, Environmental Justice benefits, and demonstrated stewardship capacity inform project evaluation.
