State Park and Forest Heritage Trust Fund
State Park and Forest Heritage Trust Fund supports Friends Groups’ maintenance and operations projects at Wisconsin state recreation properties to improve access, interpretation, conservation and facility upkeep.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: November 15, 2026 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Grant equals half the Friends Group contribution; maximum $30,000 per property per year
Summary: Supports Friends Groups’ maintenance and operations projects at Wisconsin state parks, southern state forests, state trails and state recreation areas.
Key Information: Applicants must have a property-specific endowment; only its interest may be used as the match.
Description
Created by the Wisconsin Legislature and administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the State Park and Forest Heritage Trust Fund supports Friends Groups’ work at state parks, southern state forests, state trails and state recreation areas. Projects must be consistent with DNR-approved plans for the property. Grants cover operation and maintenance expenses, including materials, supplies, services, directly related labor and equipment rental or lease.
Priority goes to department-approved interpretive programs; events and public information aligned with property goals; accessibility; restoration of native plant communities and protection of species with special conservation needs; and upkeep of existing facilities. Statewide scoring objectives emphasize outdoor recreation skills, cultural and historical interpretation, accessible recreation, outdoor health and wellness, vegetation management in recreation areas, and facilities previously supported by Friends Groups.
