The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the 2024-2025 Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program “Conserve Georgia” grants for various conservation and outdoor recreation projects. Selected applicants will advance to the final stage of the application process, with $24. 6 million in funding allocated for local parks and trails and state lands. Grantees have pledged an additional $36. 5 million to match these grants.

Walter Rabon, DNR Commissioner, stated the aim is to enhance outdoor recreation and protect natural heritage for future generations. This program is Georgia’s first dedicated funding source for conserving important lands and supporting local parks and trails. The current grant cycle had 36 applications requesting a total of $69. 3 million. Eligible applicants included local governments, recreation authorities, state agencies, and non-profits. The proposals were reviewed by the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund Board of Trustees before being approved by the Board of Natural Resources and state legislative committees.

Out of the 12 selected projects, five will be managed by local governments and non-profits, four involve acquiring conservation land by DNR, and three focus on stewardship projects on state lands. The projects include various developments and restorations in places like Macon-Bibb County, Chattahoochee Hills, Madison, Polk County, Thomasville, and several initiatives led by the DNR’s Wildlife Resources and State Parks divisions.

For more information on the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program and grant awards, visit www. gadnr.org/gosp. The grant list includes specific projects such as trail improvements, park expansions, land acquisitions, and facility developments aimed at enhancing outdoor experiences and conservation efforts.