DNR awards $4.19 million in Parks and Trails Legacy Grants

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News Releases
DNR awards $4.19 million in Parks and Trails Legacy Grants
(Released October 7, 2010)


The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has awarded $4.19 million in grants to 17 local communities from the Parks and Trails Legacy Grant Program. These projects will help local governments acquire, develop, restore, and maintain parks and trails of regional or statewide significance across Minnesota.

Funding for this program comes from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment approved by voters in 2008. These awards are from the second year of funding from the 25-year amendment. The first year of funding was awarded in January 2010, with grants totaling $3.4 million to 21 local communities.

“These projects will continue Minnesota’s strong outdoor legacy by enhancing park and trail recreation opportunities statewide,” said DNR Commissioner Mark Holsten. Projects funded represent the diversity of park and trail recreation opportunities across Minnesota.

The DNR received 67 applications to the Parks and Trails Legacy Grant Program with requests for more than $25 million. Local units of government receiving grants are required to provide at least 25 percent in matching funds.

The DNR also has awarded $470,000 in Solar Energy Legacy Grants as part of the Parks and Trails Legacy Grant Program. These grants will help fund 11 solar energy projects within parks or on trails of regional or statewide significance across Minnesota.

Questions related to the grant program can be directed to the DNR’s Parks and Trails Division at 651-259-5642.