Feb 17, 2005

JEFFERSON CITY --–– The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has begun accepting grant applications from private organizations, and municipal, state and federal agencies for the Fiscal Year 2005 grant round of the federal Recreational Trails Program. The Recreational Trails Program is funded through the Federal Highway Administration as part of the Transportation Equity Act for the Twenty-first Century (TEA-21). A minimum of $600,000 is expected in this cycle with additional funds possible. Eligible project categories include construction, maintenance, restoration and development of new trails. All grants are awarded on a reimbursement basis; a minimum 20 percent match is required for projects. Applications must be postmarked by April 18. To assist potential project sponsors with the application process, Department of Natural Resources staff is planning grant application workshops throughout the state during the month of March. The complete schedule of dates and locations are available at www.mostateparks.com/grantinfo.htm. For more information on the Recreational Trails Program or to request an application, contact the Department of Natural Resources, Division of State Parks, Grants Management Section, 1659 E. Elm St., Jefferson City, MO 65101 or call (573) 751-3442. The application is available for downloading at www.mostateparks.com/grantinfo.htm.