Parks and Trails Legacy Grant Program
Funding Note: Funding for FY 2014 will be known once the legislative session adjourns. Once the details of the new funding become available, information regarding the next round of funding will be posted here.
Program purpose
To provide grants to local units of government to support parks and trails of regional or statewide significance. Funding for this grant program is from the Parks and Trails Fund created by the Minnesota Legislature from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment.
Eligible projects
Eligible projects include acquisition, development, improvement, and restoration of park and trail facilities of regional or statewide significance. All park projects must meet requirements for perpetual outdoor recreational use. Trail acquisition projects require a perpetual easement for recreational purposes. Trail development projects require a 20 year maintenance commitment by the project sponsor.
Eligible applicants
Cities, counties, and townships outside of the seven county metropolitan area as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 473.121, subdivision 2.
Multi-organization collaboration is not required for this program.
Level of assistance
Grants are reimbursement based up to 100% of the total eligible project costs. Additional consideration in the selection process will be given to applicants that provide a nonstate cash match.
Project costs must be incurred and paid before reimbursement can be made. Project costs become eligible for reimbursement once a contract agreement is established between the DNR and the grantee.
The minimum grant award is $20,000. Grant funding available:
- FY 2013 funds: $7,493,850.
Park legacy priorities
Priority for park project funding will be given to projects that address the priorities outlined in the Parks and Trails Legacy plan
. Consideration will also be given to the design of the proposed project and existing park facilities. Project design should be compatible with the physical characteristics of the site, consistent with generally accepted engineering and architectural design standards, in accordance with accessibility standards and minimize risk to the health and safety of users.
Trail legacy priorities
Priority for trail project funding will be given to projects that address priorities outlined in the Parks and Trails Legacy Plan and provide connectivity, enhanced opportunities for commuters, and enhanced safety. Significant considerations also include trail length, expected use, and resource quality and attractiveness.
Grant awards
The Department of Natural Resources will review and rank applications during the fall of 2012. Grant awards will be announced in the fall/winter of 2012.
Project period
All work funded with FY 2013 appropriations must be completed no later than June 30, 2015. Projects that receive federal funds can be extended to equal the availability of the federal funding.
How to apply
The application deadline and instructions for FY 2014 will be available after the legislative session adjourns. Grant application materials for the Park Legacy Grants and Trail Legacy Grants are linked below.
Park Legacy Grants
Contact information: Park grants contacts
Audrey Mularie, Southern Minnesota, North Metro
audrey.mularie@state.mn.us or 651-259-5549
Joe Hiller, Northern Minnesota, South Metro
joe.hiller@state.mn.us or 651-259-5538
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Division of Parks and Trails
500 Lafayette Road, Box 52
Saint Paul, MN 55155
Trail Legacy Grants
- FY 2013 Trail Legacy Grant Application
- FY 2013 Trail Legacy Program Manual
- For the Grantee: Project Administration
Contact information:
Andrew Korsberg, Trail Program Coordinator
andrew.korsberg@state.mn.us or 651-259-5642
Traci Vibo, Grant Coordinator
traci.vibo@state.mn.us or 651-259-5619
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Division of Parks and Trails
500 Lafayette Road, Box 52
Saint Paul, MN 55155
Related DNR programs
- Local Trail Connections Program
- Federal Recreational Trail Program
- Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program
- Regional Trail Grant Program
- Regional Park Grant Program
This program is made possible by funds from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment.