The Nevada Division of State Parks announced today that they will be accepting applications for the 2009 round of Recreation Trails Projects in the fall of 2008. The 2009 allocation of funds for recreational trail construction and improvements will be announced fall of 2008. Over $900,000 is expected to be available.

     Federal, state, city and county governments, special governmental districts, organizations and private individuals are potentially eligible for the 80:20 matching grants offered through the program. This Federal Highway Administration grant program is administered for Nevada by State Parks. Projects are being solicited for the 2009 calendar year. Please refer to the 2009 grants manual for details.

     Eligible projects include motorized and non-motorized trail projects for new construction, maintenance and trail related facilities. Trail education projects are also eligible. The maximum amount available per project is $100,000 and the minimum amount awarded to projects is $4,000. Past projects include the multi-use Jumbo Grade trailhead in Washoe Valley, Tahoe Meadows snowmobile area and interpretive trail, Las Vegas Wash, Bootleg Canyon mountain bike trail in Boulder and the Nevada Trail Training course.

     Application packages are available on the Recreational Trails website at www.parks.nv.gov/trails.htm. Hard copies are also available upon request by calling 775-684-2770. The due date for applications is by 5:00 p.m., December 1, 2008, at the division's office located at 901 S. Stewart St., Suite 5005, Carson City, NV 89701-5248. Faxed copies are not accepted.

     All National Environmental Policy Act requirements must be met before the submitting a trails grant application.