IDAHO, USA — The Idaho Outdoor Recreation Fund Advisory Council (ORFAC) announced that it is accepting applications to build projects that seek to expand recreational opportunities within Idaho.
ORFAC said in a press release that it has $5 million to spend on projects such as bridges, trails and campgrounds that will create or enhance access to the outdoors.
ORFAC says the funding comes from the American Rescue Plan Act, which has firm timelines for any funds to be distributed and spent.
ORFAC says it is seeking projects that can be under contract by the end of 2024 and completed before the end of 2026.
“This represents a great, potential opportunity for those who have shovel-ready projects, or ones that are close to it, to build facilities that create new access to the outdoors,” said Susan Buxton, the director of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) and an ORFAC council member. “We want proposals that can be done quickly and give the recreating public something new opportunities.”
ORFAC says Idaho Governor Brad Little and the Idaho Legislature provided an initial $5 million in 2023 for ORFAC work which resulted in several proposals that remain in the planning stages.
In early 2024, ORFAC says the Idaho Legislature approved a second round of funding.
ORFAC, which was created by Governor Little, specifically targets “opportunities for camping, fishing, hunting, accessing trails and other outdoor pursuits” for potential projects.
IDPR, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and the Idaho Department of Lands also work cooperatively to propose projects, manage resources and monetize outdoor recreation for long-term sustainability.
The application deadline is September 30, 2024.
More information on ORFAC and instructions for applications can be found on the ORFAC website.
