$121 million available for natural resource and outdoor improvement projects

Sen. Westrom encourages District 12 residents to apply for grants to enhance parks, trails, lakes, and more.

The Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) released its official 2027 Request for Proposal (RFP) for funding from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF), announced Sen. Torrey Westrom (R-Alexandria), who serves as one of the five state senators on the LCCMR.

This year, $121 million from the state lottery–generated fund is available for natural resource and environmental enhancement projects across Minnesota. The selection and recommendation process to the Minnesota Legislature is now underway, with all proposals due by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

“I urge community members to think about a project they could champion to enhance, protect, or maintain outdoor activities and our natural resources,” Westrom said. “Maybe it’s a new fishing pier or improving a trail to increase access for youth, seniors, or anyone in your community. This is our chance to apply for these annual grants, so I encourage residents across District 12 to submit proposals.”

Examples of previous projects include: 

  • Community-access fishing piers and lake improvements
  • Shoreline stabilization to protect public spaces 
  • Environmental education programs for schools and youth organizations
  • Local park and trail maintenance projects
“Remember, proposals must be submitted by Wednesday, March 18, to be considered,” Westrom said.
For more information about the LCCMR’s proposal request and selection process, visit: https://www.lccmr.mn.gov