The recent passage of the Maine Trails Program last November has opened a significant new avenue for funding recreational trail projects across the state. While it took a short period to finalize and disseminate the specific details, the comprehensive application and guidance materials are now fully released and accessible. To ensure everyone is well-equipped for this process, we have actively collaborated with the Department of Conservation, Agriculture, and Forestry (DCAF) to develop and provide essential training sessions. We strongly encourage you to reach out to our team or the designated DCAF representatives for any questions or assistance you may need as you navigate this funding opportunity.
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 as advised by the Maine Trails Advisory Committee.
Eligible projects MUST include:
- Public Use and Access: Applications for MTP funding must ensure public access to the recreation improvements funded by the grant for the greatest duration possible.
Eligible projects may include:
- Restoration of existing recreational trails, trailheads and trailside amenities.
- Development of new trails, trailheads and trailside amenities. Acquisition of easements or fee simple title to property for recreational trails or recreational trail corridors.
Allocation Requirements & Local Funding
The MTP grants are made on a matching basis and can fund up to 90% of eligible project costs. The balance must come from the project sponsor and can include cash and or in-kind / donated services and materials.
MTP funding must be allocated to projects according to the trail types below.
The remaining 50% of funds shall be used for recreational projects that facilitate diverse trail use.
25% of MTP funds allocated to the state shall be reserved for uses related to motorized trail recreation
25% of MTP funds allocated to the state shall be reserved for uses related to non-motorized trail recreation.
How Are Grants Awarded?
While the application itself is not overly complex, attendance at one of the regional grant workshops is recommended to help answer questions about the program and the application process.
Applications must be received by the announced deadline and must contain all required material to be eligible for review / scoring and possible funding. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Applications will be evaluated by Bureau staff and the Maine Trails Advisory Committee to determine their compliance with the established state goals for the program. All applicants will be notified whether or not they have been selected for funding.
Grant Application & Helpful Documents
Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
Program Guidance Document (PDF)
Scoring Rubic (PDF)
MTP Ambassadors are here to help! Need Questions Answered or Want to Know More?
Contact an Ambassador Below:
Matt Stedman – MSA Executive Vice President – Northern Maine expertise with snowmobile trails.
Al Swett – MSA Director of Operations – Statewide expertise with snowmobile trails.
Shanna Towle – Central Maine expertise with snowmobile trails.
Paul Kennedy – Western High Peaks Region expertise with snowmobile and ATV trails.
Deb Bowker – Statewide expertise for all types of trails.
Jeff McCabe – Statewide expertise for all trail types.
Doug Dickinson – Statewide expertise for ATV and snowmobile trails.
Bronva Lechtman – Statewide expertise for all trail types.
Marc Constantine – Moosehead Area expertise with snowmobile trails.
Robin Kerr – York County expertise for all trail types.
Ben Jankowski – York County expertise for all trail types.
More information also available at Maine Trails Coalition