Land and Water Conservation Fund

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federal grant program administered in South Dakota by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks (SD GFP). This program aims to assist local governments in the acquisition and development of outdoor recreational facilities that are accessible to the public. Originally created by the U.S. Congress in 1964, LWCF has played a key role in promoting public outdoor recreation across the country. In South Dakota, the program provides financial support to cities, municipalities, counties, townships, tribal governments, and other eligible political subdivisions to expand and improve local recreational infrastructure. LWCF grants reimburse up to 50 percent of total project costs, with the applicant responsible for contributing the remaining 50 percent through cash, in-kind contributions, volunteer labor, equipment or materials, or other non-federal grants (subject to approval). Eligible projects include a broad array of outdoor facilities such as playgrounds, ballfields, sports complexes, swimming pools, picnic areas, golf courses, amphitheaters, ice rinks, winter sports facilities, and land acquisitions for recreation. All projects must serve the public and cannot restrict access to residents, members, or particular groups; any user fees must be considered reasonable. Environmental, accessibility, and legal requirements apply. All projects must comply with NEPA and other federal environmental laws. If selected for funding, applicants must delay any ground-disturbing activities until environmental clearance is received. In some cases, a Level III Archaeological Survey may be required, with costs potentially included in the project budget. Equipment purchases must comply with Buy America provisions for steel and iron products unless the federal share of the project is below $250,000, in which case a waiver may apply. Applications must be submitted via Survey123, an online portal accessible through the SD GFP Partnerships webpage. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the LWCF Application Manual in detail before beginning. The manual outlines critical components including project narrative questions, required supporting documentation, and evaluation factors. Applicants will need to gather numerous documents such as proof of site control, color maps, detailed budgets, site plans, contractor quotes, a resolution of support from the governing body, and letters of support from stakeholders. The application requires detailed responses about the project's scope, accessibility, environmental impact, management plan, alignment with state outdoor recreation priorities (SCORP), and public engagement. Applications for the 2026 LWCF cycle are due by April 10, 2026. Successful applicants will be notified and awarded funding by Spring 2027. There is no pre-application phase, and no Letters of Intent or preliminary submissions are required. Awards are based on the quality of the application narrative, demonstrated public benefit, alignment with statewide priorities, feasibility, and readiness. Projects must begin after the award is finalized and be completed in a timely fashion per the proposed project timeline. For assistance, applicants can contact Kerri Richards at the SD GFP via email at [email protected] or by phone at 605-773-5490. All applications must be submitted online and are only considered complete when all required documents and questions are submitted via the Survey123 platform. Applicants should avoid using incognito browsers, as progress will not be saved in such modes. The program is offered on a recurring basis and is expected to open annually.

Reviewers rely heavily on concise, complete project narratives. Carefully review the application manual and ensure all required PDFs are combined and properly formatted.