Recreational Trails Program

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a federal assistance initiative designed to support the development and maintenance of recreational trails for both motorized and non-motorized uses across the United States. Administered by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (SD GFP) agency, the RTP is part of a nationwide program funded by the Federal Highway Administration. The program’s aim is to enhance public outdoor recreation opportunities by providing financial assistance to eligible entities for trail-related projects, which may include trail construction, restoration, equipment purchase, facility development, and safety or environmental education programs. Eligible applicants for this grant include a wide array of public and nonprofit entities, such as private nonprofit organizations, municipal and state agencies, federal agencies, tribal governments, and other governmental bodies. A key requirement is that funded projects must offer a public benefit—meaning the facilities must be open and accessible to the general public and cannot be exclusive to a subset of users or restricted to members-only clubs. While user fees may be charged, they must remain reasonable and not pose a barrier to access. The RTP grant covers up to 80 percent of total project costs, with the remaining 20 percent to be provided by the applicant as a match. This match can come from cash contributions, volunteer labor, donated materials, or equipment usage at fair market value. In situations where other federal funds are used to meet the match, total federal support (RTP plus the other federal source) may not exceed 95 percent of the project cost. Non-federal sources must provide at least 5 percent in such cases. All projects are subject to environmental compliance under federal laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). If selected for funding, applicants may need to conduct a Level III Archaeological Survey before beginning earth-disturbing activities. Applications for the RTP must be submitted online using Survey123. The application platform allows for saving progress, provided users return using the same browser and device without clearing history. Applicants must thoroughly review the 2026 RTP Application Instruction Manual before starting the application. Required documents include proof of ownership or legal control of the site (e.g., deeds, leases, easements), a color map of the project area, a detailed project budget, letters of support from community partners or stakeholders, and any additional supporting documentation such as contractor quotes or intergovernmental agreements. The submission deadline for the current cycle is April 10, 2026. All required materials must be finalized and uploaded by the end of the day on that date. Projects selected for funding will likely gain access to grant funds by spring 2027. Application components include detailed narrative responses about the project type, trail specifications, location, environmental impacts, budget, maintenance plans, and community significance. Evaluation will consider the need for the project, public benefit, readiness to proceed, compliance with environmental standards, and long-term sustainability. For technical questions or additional information, applicants are encouraged to contact Kerri Richards at the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department via email at [email protected] or phone at 605-773-5490. The application and manual are accessible online, and all applicants should ensure that their submissions are complete and accurate before the deadline.

Reviewers emphasize complete and accurate documentation, public access compliance, and strong narrative justifications.