Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Trail Improvement Program

Goal/purpose: This program provides funding for maintenance of established ORV trails and facilities as part of the designated statewide trail system. It also funds development of new trails and facilities, and restoration of natural resources damaged by ORV use.

Additional applicant eligibility criteria: Government agencies and nonprofit, incorporated clubs and organizations are eligible. Individuals are not eligible. Non-profit status must be renewed each year through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Applicants must provide a certificate of liability insurance and documentation of site control (leases, easements, use permits) for any private land utilized.

Project eligibility: Applications for trail, route, or area maintenance and/or development must be for facilities that are open to the public. Applications for damage restoration funds must be for lands in public ownership.

Application process: Grant applications and information on applying for grants are available in early spring. Grant applications with required documents are due to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources by May 1. The Department reviews applications and selects projects to be funded. Grant agreements are issued to sponsors in late fall for the upcoming ORV season.