Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) is seeking public comment on recommended funding levels for 2016 Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant applications. Public comments are accepted through Friday, August 5, 2016 at 5pm.
LWCF dollars are federal funds available to the states for improvements which benefit outdoor recreation. The funds received by Montana are typically split between improvements at state park sites and a grant program to benefit outdoor recreation facilities in Montana communities. A condition of the program is that sponsors provide a 50% cost match for their respective projects. For the 2016 grant cycle opportunity, a total of 10 qualifying LWCF community grant applications were submitted for the following projects:
- Town of Ekalaka Swimming Pool Replacement $150,000
- City of Miles City Sports Complex Upgrade $41,603
- City of Harlowtown Playground Equipment Replacement $24,000
- City of Billings Playground Equipment Replacement $125,000
- City of Livingston Park Development $46,000
- Montana FWP Outdoor Gazebo – Montana Wild $60,000
- Butte/Silver Bow Co. Swimming Pool Upgrade $150,000
- City of Bozeman Restroom Addition $125,000
- City of Whitefish Whitefish Trail- Trailhead Facilities $150,000
- City of Troy Community Park Upgrades $25,168
In total, $896,771 in LWCF grant funds were awarded for 2016. The Montana State Parks & Recreation Board approved funding of these qualifying applications at their meeting on June 15, 2016. An opportunity for public comment will be open for 30 days. Public comments must be received by Friday, August 5 at 5pm.
Or go visit: stateparks.mt.gov click on ‘Public Notices’ on the right-hand task bar.
Send comments by regular mail to: LWCF, Montana State Parks, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701.
The full grant applications are available for review by request in the Parks’ Division office at the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Headquarters – located at 1420 East 6th Ave., in Helena, Montana 59620. Contact: Tom Reilly, (406) 444-3752.
Visit Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) and enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, boating and more and discover some of the greatest natural and cultural treasures on earth.
