Off-Road Trail Improvement Program

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) administers the ORV Trail Improvement Fund to support the upkeep and expansion of the state's off-road vehicle (ORV) trail infrastructure. This program is structured to enhance recreational opportunities while also addressing environmental impacts associated with ORV use. As part of Michigan’s designated statewide trail system, the program funds the maintenance and development of ORV trails, routes, and areas, as well as the restoration of natural resources damaged due to ORV activity. The core objective of the program is to ensure the sustainability and accessibility of public ORV facilities. Eligible project categories include routine maintenance of existing trails and facilities, construction or expansion of new trails or support infrastructure, and remediation efforts to restore lands affected by ORV use. Importantly, funding is limited to facilities and projects that are open to the public, and in the case of restoration, the land must be publicly owned. The program thus aligns both with recreation goals and broader environmental stewardship mandates. Eligibility for the ORV Trail Improvement Fund is limited to government agencies and nonprofit, incorporated clubs and organizations. Individuals are not eligible to apply. This targeted eligibility ensures that applicants possess the necessary administrative structure and public service orientation to manage grant-funded projects responsibly and in compliance with state policies. The grant application process begins each spring, with application materials becoming available early in the season. Completed applications, along with all required documentation, must be submitted to the Michigan DNR by May 1 each year. Following the submission deadline, the Department evaluates the proposals and selects those that best align with program objectives. Successful applicants are issued grant agreements in the late fall for projects to commence in the following ORV season. From application to award, the grant cycle spans approximately five months. Projects are funded for the full fiscal year, beginning October 1 and concluding September 30. Applicants receiving funding must return two signed copies of the project agreement to the DNR before grant funds can be disbursed. A fully executed agreement is then provided to each sponsor to formalize the award. The ORV Trail Improvement Fund is authorized under Part 811 of 1994 PA 451, as amended. The maximum allowable funding is up to 100 percent of project costs, but cannot exceed the actual grant allocation. For further details or assistance, applicants may contact Richard Kennedy of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division by phone at 517-284-7275 or via email at KennedyR@Michigan.gov. Supporting documents required for application include the ORV Trail Improvement Program Grant Application (PR3601), Documentation of Site Control (PR1854), and the Recreation Trail Development Proposal (PR1862).