Applications from cities, villages, natural resources districts, and other political subdivisions interested in 2026 Land and Water Conservation Fund grants are being accepted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Applications will be accepted through noon Central time on Oct. 30.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program is for outdoor recreation, covering many project types from playgrounds and ballfields to wildlife observation areas.
LWCF provides reimbursable grants with a 50% match component. Eligible applicants include villages, cities, public power districts, natural resources districts, state agricultural societies, and tribal entities. This year brings two opportunities, the standard full project with up to $600,000 in funding or the Small Improvement Project with up to $60,000 for encumbered properties.
Grant requests recommended for approval will be announced at the January 2027 Commission meeting.
Applicants are asked to submit a letter of intent by end of day on Sept. 18.
For more information on LWCF and to apply for the grants, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and search for "LWCF." For instructions on the letter of intent, see the How to Apply section. Connect to the new grant portal by clicking on the button and, if needed, request Create an Account.
Email shari.sorenson@nebraska.gov with any questions.