The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announced a funding opportunity for fiscal year 2025 under the Recreation and Visitor Services Program. This program seeks to enhance outdoor recreation on public lands in Oregon and Washington by supporting projects that align with federal priorities, including environmental justice, climate resiliency, and equitable access to recreation. The program emphasizes partnerships, community engagement, and sustainable resource management.

The program has an estimated total funding pool of $800,000 and anticipates making up to 12 awards, with individual awards ranging from $5,000 to $200,000. Eligible applicants include state, county, and city governments, Native American tribal entities, higher education institutions, and nonprofits. Individuals and for-profit organizations are not eligible. Cost-sharing is not required, but leveraging resources and partnerships may serve as a tiebreaker in competitive evaluations.

Key goals include increasing access to recreation for underserved communities, enhancing public satisfaction at recreation sites, reducing barriers to recreation, and promoting environmental stewardship. Specific project areas include improving visitor information, monitoring recreation resources, enhancing trail systems, supporting community partnerships, and strengthening relationships with tribal nations. Projects must align with Department of Interior priorities, such as addressing the climate crisis and advancing racial equity, as well as the broader goals of Executive Orders and Acts like the Inflation Reduction Act and the Great American Outdoors Act.

Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by March 10, 2025. Required materials include a project narrative, budget narrative, and federal forms such as SF-424. Proposals should outline the project's objectives, methodologies, anticipated outcomes, and relevance to BLM priorities. Applicants must also provide evidence of environmental compliance and any necessary stakeholder coordination. Indirect costs are capped at 17.5 percent for CESU partners.

Proposals will be evaluated on technical approach, public benefit, applicant qualifications, and the alignment of objectives with BLM goals. The merit review process assigns ratings of "exceeds," "meets," or "does not meet" expectations, with technical approach being the most critical criterion. Final funding decisions will consider applicant risk assessments and adherence to federal regulations, including Buy America requirements for infrastructure projects.

Award recipients must comply with reporting requirements, including financial and performance reports. They must also ensure alignment with federal standards for geospatial data and maintain transparency regarding lobbying and conflicts of interest. Recipients should be prepared for substantial BLM involvement in project implementation, including training, operational oversight, and progress evaluations. For additional details or questions, applicants are encouraged to contact BLM representatives listed in the announcement.