PIERRE — South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks announced this week that the Land and Water Conservation Fund 2024 grant application is now open.

Public outdoor recreation projects sponsored by city, county, township, and tribal governments are eligible to receive the grant money.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund provides up to 50 percent reimbursement for approved outdoor recreation projects that seek at least $10,000 in grant assistance. Grants will be awarded for development or renovation of public outdoor recreation facilities. Emphasis will be given to project applications that address the priority needs identified in the 2023 South Dakota Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. Priorities identified by the public include, but are not limited to, unpaved trails, swim beaches, fishing areas, canoe and kayak water trails, nature areas/open spaces, playgrounds, dog parks, and picnic areas.

The application deadline is April 26.

LWCF funds are federal dollars that are apportioned to states by Congress to fund public outdoor recreation projects.

Application packets are available on the Game, Fish, and Parks website. For more information, contact Grants Coordinator Randy Kittle at 605-773-5490 or by email at randy.kittle@state.sd.us.