Maine Trails Program Grant
The Maine Trails Program (MTP) is a statewide initiative to support the design and development of trails for outdoor recreation and active transportation. Created by the Maine Legislature in 2024, the program is administered by the Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL) within the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.
Deadline for the first year of funding is September 26, 2025. If your group is planning to apply this year it’s time to start!
How to get started!
-
Are you eligible?
Grants may be awarded to Municipalities, other qualified subdivisions of State Government, including executive branch departments and agencies; and Non-profit organizations under guidelines established by the Bureau of Parks and Lands
-
Is your project eligible?
Eligible projects must ensure public access to the recreational improvements proposed, including restoration, development and acquisition projects.
-
Attend a Workshop
The Bureau will be holding workshops through out the state to introduce and share how the grant program works, and answer any questions you may have.
-
STEP 1
Five months out you should target the following for action.
Download the grant application and program guidance.
Familiarize yourself with the program.
From this develop a firm concept and project plan.
-
STEP 2
Three months out you should target the following for action.
Identify your project lead.
Receive landowner agreement if necessary.
Develop project maps.
Request project review by Maine Historic Preservation Commission, Maine Natural Areas Program and Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Confirm commitment for ongoing maintenance.
-
STEP 3
Two months out you should target the following for action.
Check in with your local planning department for any ordinance compliance understanding.
Check with applicable code enforcement officials regarding the need for permits.
Begin developing your budget, including in-kind donation documents.
Begin writing the project grant!