Click here to fill out an application for assistance. Or download a PDF verion of the Guidelines and Application Form. (To open these files, you must have Adobe Reader . Click here to download a free copy.)

RTCA provides technical assistance to locally-led natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation projects. The project applicant may be a state or local agency, tribe, non-profit organization, or citizens' group. Federal agencies, including the National Park Service, may apply only in collaboration with a non-federal partner. RTCA does not provide financial assistance to support project implementation.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss their project with RTCA staff before sending in an application. It can be helpful to schedule an advance field visit by our staff to best understand how RTCA can be of assistance.

CRITERIA
Please make applications brief (generally no more than 3 pages). Applications are evaluated according to the following criteria (questions 1-5 on the application):

1. The project has specific, partner-defined goals and tangible conservation or outdoor recreation results expected in the near future.
2. The project protects or improves important natural resources or enhances outdoor recreation opportunities.
3. Roles and contributions of project partners are substantive and well-defined.
4. There is evidence of broad community support for the project.
5. The anticipated role for RTCA is clearly stated and is appropriate.
6. In evaluating applications, preference will be given to projects that:
   

• Provide physical connections among resources;
• Include both natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation;
  
• Partner with an NPS area;
• Partner with a health organization;
  
• Connect communities to NPS areas;
  
• Engage youth

Projects should include significant community involvement and outreach, and should also include the commitment, cooperation, and cost-sharing of all partners. Because partnerships are key to the success of community-based projects, we strongly encourage the inclusion of support letters with your application.

DUE DATE
Applications are due by August 1st for assistance beginning the following fiscal year (October 1st through September 30th). Assistance is for one year, and may be renewed for a second year upon request. Project selection is generally announced in early November after passage of the federal budget.

A map and contact information for our regional offices is available on this website under Contact Us. Please return your completed application to the Program Leader for the region in which your project is located.

Alternatively, you may submit your application to:
Chief, Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program,
National Park Service, 1849 C Street, NW , Org Code 2240,
Washington , D.C. 20240 , or by email to charlie_stockman@nps.gov You may also call us at 202-354-6900.

If submitted to Washington, your application will be forwarded to the appropriate regional office for review.

Click here to view some tools and tips to assist in conducting a community-based conservation or outdoor recreation project.