Land and Water Conservation Fund Program
The statewide and local assistance program of the LWCF is administered in Wisconsin by the Department of Natural Resources. Municipal and tribal governments, school districts and other state political subdivisions are eligible to apply for funding for the acquisition or development of outdoor recreational areas and facilities. Grants cover 50% of the cost. Projects must be supported by a local or State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
Organization
National Park Service
Eligibility
Government and Tribes
University or School
Focus
Infrastructure and Acquisitions
Maintenance and Stewardship
Related Resources
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grants
The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund was created in 1989 to preserve important natural communities, protect water quality and fisheries, and expand opportunities for outdoor recreation and has several subprograms.
Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin
C.D. Besadny Conservation Grants
This Fund supports conservation and education projects that benefit Wisconsin's lands, waters, and wildlife that connect people to Wisconsin's outdoors.
Wisconsin Economic Development
Brownfields Grant Program
Wisconsin’s Brownfields Grant Program provides funds to assist with the remediation of environmental contamination of abandoned, idle, or underused industrial or commercial facilities or sites.
Explore the Trends Shaping Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor Industry Association: 2025 Outdoor Participation Trends Report
Bureau of Economic Analysis: 2024 Economic Statistics for Wisconsin
Adventure Travel Trade Association: Travel Market Sizing and the New Adventure Traveler
KOA: 2025 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report
American Sportfishing Association: Economic Contributions of Recreational Fishing
Measure What Matters
