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 Economic Development
Vibrant Spaces Grant
Vibrant Spaces Grant provides support for local communities to develop and enhance public spaces.
U.S. Economic Development Administration
Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program
The U.S. Department of Transportation's (USDOT) Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program provides grants for surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact.
Minneapolis Foundation
Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (TCTAC)
These grants are made possible by funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through its Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program. Starting in 2024, the Foundation will distribute $52 million over three years. Applications are accepting on a rolling basis until November 2026.
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
