Massachusetts Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program
Massachusetts Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program supports municipalities, state agencies, and tribes in acquiring land and improving parks and trails to expand public outdoor recreation.
Funder: Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
Due Dates: December 2, 2026 (Virtual workshop) | December 3, 2026 (In-person workshop) | December 4, 2026 (Appraisal coordination) | December 22, 2026 (Written questions) | January 5, 2027 (Application) | March 1, 2027 (Appraisals) | April 14, 2027 (Federal permits) | December 31, 2029 (Project completion)
Funding Amounts: $50,000–$1,000,000; up to 50% reimbursement; eligible costs through December 31, 2029
Summary: Supports Massachusetts public outdoor recreation through land acquisition, park development and renovation, and trails.
Key Information: Applicants must finance projects upfront and wait for an executed contract or ISA before purchasing land or starting reimbursable work.
Description
The Massachusetts Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Grant Program supports acquisition and improvement of public outdoor recreation areas throughout the Commonwealth. EEA’s Division of Conservation Services administers this federal program on behalf of the National Park Service, with support from the EEA Office of Grants and Technical Assistance. Eligible work includes acquiring parkland or conservation land, creating parks, renovating existing parks, and developing trails in existing conservation or recreation areas.
The program seeks to create and maintain high-quality recreation resources while stimulating non-federal investment. Projects implement the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), emphasizing water-based recreation, trails, neighborhood parks, and access to protected natural areas—especially for underserved populations. Climate-resilient design, accessibility, and Environmental Justice access are important selection considerations.
