General Guidelines
Thank you for visiting the Alaska Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation grant submission portal.
This page provides access to current grant and program application opportunities. Our goal is to support applicants through a fair, transparent, and efficient review process.
Before starting an application, please review the following guidelines:
- A Submittable account is required to submit an application.
- All application materials must be complete, accurate, and submitted by the stated deadline.
- All communications regarding your application will be sent to the email associated with your Submittable account.
- For assistance using Submittable, please visit the Submittable Help Center.
- Program-specific requirements, eligibility information, and evaluation criteria are provided within each application form.
Browse available opportunities below. We appreciate your interest and look forward to reviewing your submission.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) program provides matching grants to support the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. When applying through the State of Alaska (the pass-through entity) administering federal LWCF funds—applicants should be aware of the following key points:
Eligibility & Sponsorship
- Only state governments receive LWCF funds directly from the National Park Service (NPS).
- Local governments, tribes, and other eligible organizations must apply through the state’s designated LWCF administrator (the pass-through entity - State of Alaska).
- The pass-through entity serves as the official grant recipient and is responsible for ensuring compliance with federal requirements.
Matching Requirements
- LWCF grants require a minimum 50% non-federal match.
- Matching funds can be cash, donated land value, labor, or materials, but must be documented and approved.
Project Scope & Compliance
- Projects must be consistent with the state’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
- All funded sites must remain dedicated to public outdoor recreation in perpetuity.
- Federal environmental, accessibility, and historic preservation requirements apply.
Application Process
- Applicants submit proposals to the pass-through entity, which reviews, ranks, and forwards selected projects to NPS for final approval.
- Detailed project descriptions, cost estimates, maps, and public involvement documentation are required.
Post-Award Responsibilities
- The pass-through entity manages reporting, reimbursement requests, and compliance monitoring.
- The subrecipient (local applicant) must maintain the site, keep records, and allow inspections for the life of the project.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Starting construction or acquisition before NPS approval.
- Failing to secure matching funds before application.
- Not understanding the perpetual recreation use restriction on LWCF-funded properties.