DEP ACCEPTING LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND 2014-2015 APPLICATIONS

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 16, 2015

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850-245-2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us 

DEP ACCEPTING LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND 2014-2015 APPLICATIONS

~Federal grant opportunity for local governments to enhance public outdoor recreation~

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has opened the application submission cycle for the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund for fiscal year 2014-2015. Grant applications will be accepted today through Friday, Feb. 27. Congress appropriated approximately $1.8 million in grant funds for this application cycle. 

The Land and Water Conservation Fund is a federal competitive program, which provides matching grant funds for acquiring or developing land for public outdoor recreational use. This year marks the 50th anniversary of this conservation program. Since its inception, the Land and Water Conservation Fund has supported more than 41,000 projects nationwide.

“We encourage local governmental entities to apply for these grant funds to help meet the needs of their communities,” said Rick Mercer, director of DEP's Office of Operations. “This grant opportunity can help communities develop parks and trails, increasing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.” 

Up to $200,000 may be awarded for each project. Applicant matching funds are required. The matching ratio is 50-50, which equates to one applicant dollar to one program dollar for all grant awards. Additional information, including the 2014-2015 Land and Water Conservation Fund application, can be found here. 

The Land and Recreation Grants Section within DEP's Bureau of Financial Management administers the Land and Water Conservation Fund on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service. Eligible participants include all local governmental entities with the legal responsibility for the provision of outdoor recreational sites and facilities for the use and benefit of the public.