The Local Trail Connections program intends to accelerate development of local trail connections between where people live and significant public resources. The program is not intended to create significant new trails, but rather, to improve connectivity among natural and cultural resources.
Grant Guide
Overview
Application & Review Process
Deadline: March 29, 2024
Applicants should download the program manual and fill out the application (Word doc). Applications are reviewed by the DNR in the spring, with award notifications issued in the summer.
Funding Amount
$5,000 – $150,000
The minimum request is $5,000 and the maximum request is $150,000. Grantees are reimbursed for up to 75% of the total project costs—recipient must cover at least 25% of the total project cost. In the past, funding for this grant program has come from “In Lieu Of”state lottery proceeds, which was subject to appropriation from the Legislature and signature of the Governor.
Eligibility
Projects
Acquisition and development of trail facilities; trail construction; permanent trail-side improvements (i.e. drainage, parking, bathrooms); features to facilitate access and use of trails by people with disabilities; bridge construction or restoration; contracted maintenance.
Infrastructure
Land/Resource
Applicants
Local units of government (i.e. cities, counties, townships); trail organizations may apply, but only in coordination with a local unit of government.
Government Entity
Land Type & Geography
Local trail projects are eligible. Projects within state park boundaries or state trail corridors, and elements of the Regional Open Space System in the Twin Cities are not eligible. Projects must be within Minnesota.
Local
Trails
Statistics & Examples
Funding History
| Year | Funds Awarded | # Projects | Average Award |
| 2020 | $855,600 | 7 | $122,229 |
| 2019 | $1,550,000 | 11 | $140,909 |
| 2018 | $731,350 | 6 | $121,982 |
| 2017 | $585,000 | 5 | $117,000 |
| 2016 | $361,530 | 4 | $90,383 |
| 2015 | $550,000 | 4 | $137,500 |
2020 Project Distribution
Past Award Examples
| Amount | Recipient | Project |
| $82,390 | City of Kasson | Connect trail gaps to allow safer connect to parks and aquatic center. |
| $90,500 | City of Wadena | Replace bridge over Union Creek on Leaf River Recreational Trail. |
| $109,500 | City of Cannon Falls | Connect Mill Towns Trail to Cannon Valley Trail through city parks and trails. |
| $150,000 | City of Luverne | Construct .75 miles of trail on the Luverne Loop to connect with the Blue Mounds Trail. |
| $150,000 | City of Victoria | Install 5000 feet of trail to connect two regional trails. |