The Illinois Snowmobile Grant Program (SNOW), administered annually by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), provides financial assistance for the development, maintenance, and acquisition of snowmobile trails and related facilities. This reimbursement-based grant is available to units of local government and funds up to 100% of development, rehabilitation, and equipment costs for snowmobiling facilities open to the public. The program also covers up to 90% of costs for acquiring linear rights-of-way and 50% for other land acquisitions or projects benefiting both snowmobiling and general recreational use.

The program aims to enhance public snowmobile trail systems, ensuring they remain accessible and well-maintained. Eligible projects include land acquisition for trails, development of snowmobile routes, and the construction of support facilities like parking lots and warming shelters. Additional funding is available for trail grooming equipment, safety and communication tools, and annual trail maintenance. However, projects involving eminent domain or those restricting public access are not eligible.

To qualify, applicants must be registered in the Grants Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) system and submit applications through the AmpliFund platform by March 21, 2025. Required documents include detailed project narratives, budget templates, maps, environmental assessments, public hearing minutes, and an affidavit certifying the adequacy of snow cover in the proposed area. A non-refundable application fee of 0.25% of the grant request is required, ranging from $100 to $300. Successful applicants must also pay a 1% grant award fee, up to a maximum of $5,000.

Applications are evaluated based on factors such as project location, demand, accessibility, and public support. Competitive scoring considers the development of long-distance trails, areas with high snowmobile registrations, and initial facility creation. Selected projects must comply with state accessibility standards and other legal requirements, including permits from relevant agencies. Grantees are responsible for funding their projects upfront, with reimbursement provided upon submission of complete billing documentation. Projects should be completed within 24 months of agreement execution.

Funding availability depends on annual revenue from snowmobile registration fees, fines, and bond forfeitures, with $120,000 allocated for FY25. Grantees are required to maintain acquired or developed sites for public snowmobile use and ensure compliance with IDNR guidelines. For further details or assistance, applicants can contact the IDNR Office of Grant Management and Assistance.