Utah Taking Applications for Outdoor Rec Matching Grants

The Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation began accepting applications July 1 for the Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant, formerly the Utah Waypoint Grant, which was created by Governor Gary Herbert in collaboration with Outdoor Industry Association.

Nonprofits, youth programs, and local or tribal government agencies may apply to receive up to a 50/50 matching grant of no more than $75,000 to put toward programs that directly benefit the public.

“Each year we see increased participation in outdoor activities within our local communities,” said Tom Adams, director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation. “It is important to provide these communities and other invested groups the necessary resources to sustainably plan, prepare and participate in outdoor recreation.”

This year, for the first time, the state is making up to $100,000 available for youth programs. Another $530,000 is reserved for infrastructure development projects such as trails, trail infrastructure, and trail facilities; restroom facilities near recreational areas; ramps and launch sites that would improve water access; whitewater parks; yurts; and infrastructure for wildlife viewing areas.

To be eligible for grants, project areas must be accessible by the public.

The inaugural round of submissions during 2015 yielded a number of success stories including the opening of the Moab Boulder Park and Highland Bike Park.

Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant applications will be accepted until August 11, 2016. Please note that this grant program has limited funding. The program will close once all funds have been distributed.

Applications and detailed eligibility requirements are included in the downloadable grant packet at business.utah.gov/outdoor.

Herbert created Utah’s Office of Outdoor Recreation January 2013 as a result of the large contribution the industry plays in Utah’s economy. It is the first office of its kind in the country. The office aims to establish a nationwide recreation management standard, and ensure that the State’s natural assets can sustain economic growth for years to come.