The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act, passed by Congress in 1964, provides for Federal financial assistance for the acquisition and/or development of public outdoor recreational land and facilities. Financial assistance is granted on a 50%-reimbursable basis. The project sponsor pays the total cost; after which, half of the cost will be repaid to the sponsor from Federal funds up to the LWCF allowable amount, minus an administrative processing fee.

The LWCF is administered at the Federal level by the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service. At the state level, the LWCF is administered by the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Office of State Parks, Division of Outdoor Recreation.

In brief, the LWCF program applies Federal funds as a match for local funding of recreation projects. Supported projects should be consistent with the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), published on a regular basis, that identifies recreational priorities for the State of Louisiana.

Federal Land & Water Conservation Funds Website and Applicaton -- DEADLINE: APRIL 1

RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM
By virtue of Governor Bobby Jindal's Executive Order 2008-5, the Recreational Trails Program now resides in the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. This program provides federal funding through the Federal Highway Administration for the purpose of development and maintenance of recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. Additional information about RTP is available from the Federal Highway Administration or by contacting the FHWA Recreational Trails for Louisiana Administrator at (225) 342-4435 or mdomingue@crt.state.la.us.

Overview of the FHWA Recreational Trails Program for Louisiana (LRTPL)

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the FHWA Recreational Trails Program for Louisiana (LRTPL)

FHWA Recreational Trails Program for Louisiana Application -- Deadline for submission is May 1 annually. Faxed applications will not be accepted.