DNR 2002 RECREATION GRANTS APPLICATION MATERIALS AVAILABLE; WORKSHOPS SET FOR JANUARYLANSING--The Michigan Department of Natural Resources today announced that application materials are now available for the 2002 recreation grants program. The DNR also has scheduled two workshops in January to assist communities in preparing grant applications. The workshops are free and preregistration is not required. The application materials and workshops cover the following recreation grants programs: * The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) program provides financial assistance to state and local governments for land acquisition and the development of outdoor and some limited indoor recreation facilities, with a focus on meeting community recreation needs. Michigan will receive a limited amount of funding in 2002 through a federal appropriation to the National Park Service. Because funding is limited, this program may be limited to only acquisition or development projects. The LWCF program requires a minimum 50% local match. * The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) provides funding assistance for state and local outdoor recreation needs, including land acquisition and development of outdoor recreation facilities. This assistance is directed at creating and improving outdoor recreational opportunities and providing protection to valuable natural resources. Both local governments and the DNR compete for MNRTF assistance. The MNRTF is supported by revenues from the development of state-owned mineral resources, in particular oil and gas. The grant application deadline for both programs is April 1, 2002. In addition to the regular round, additional applications for MNRTF acquisition only may be submitted to the DNR prior to Aug. 1, 2002. Application materials can be obtained by contacting the DNR Grants Administration Division at its 24-hour voice mail line: 517-373-2724. Materials also are available online at www.michigandnr.com. The following application workshops have been scheduled: * January 24, Grayling, 9 a.m. to noon, Holiday Inn, 2650 S. I-75 Business Loop. * January 29, Lansing, 9 a.m. to noon, Michigan Library and Historical Center (Auditorium) 717 West Allegan. Topics will include applicant and project eligibility, the five-year recreation plan requirement, distribution of funds, how to prepare applications and attachments, project selection and grantee obligations. A review of the 2002 recreation grants application for both the LWCF and the MNRTF will be provided. DNR Grants Administration Division staff also will be available at each session to answer any questions regarding these programs.
Source: MDNR
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