FWP administers the Recreational Trails Program (RTP), a federally funded grants program that supports Montana’s trails.
The RTP funds come from the Federal Highway Trust Fund and represent a portion of the motor fuel excise tax collected from nonhighway recreational fuel use: fuel used for off-highway recreation by snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles, and off-highway light trucks.
FWP collaborates with the State Trails Advisory Committee to review the RTP applicants each year.
Approximately $1.5 million is made available each year.
Maximum award: $100,000
Match Requirement: 20% of total project costs
RTP applicants can include federal, tribal, state, county or city agencies, private associations and clubs including nonprofits. Examples of eligible projects include:
Maintenance and restoration of existing recreational trails
Development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages
Purchase and lease of recreational trail construction and maintenance equipment
Construction of new recreational trails
Acquisition of easements and fee simple title for recreational trail corridors
Development and dissemination of publications and operation of educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection
The next grant application cycle will begin run from November 1, 2022 through January 31, 2023.
Prospective applicants should review the Application Guidelines for details. Applications are accepted through the WebGrants.
RTP Applicant Guidelines (updated 1-12-2023) (PDF)
Environmental forms for application:
Volunteer Hours Form (PDF)
2022 Award Recipients (PDF)
2021 Award Recipients (PDF)
2020 Award Recipients (PDF)
Stephanie Clemen, RTP Program Manager
Stephanie.adamsclemen@mt.gov
406-444-5898