The Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Fund’s Large Scale Grants are administered by Arizona State Parks and Trails. Established in 1991, the OHV Recreation Fund receives a fixed percentage of Arizona’s motor vehicle fuel license taxes through the Highway User Revenue Fund. These grants aim to enhance and manage OHV recreational opportunities statewide, addressing both infrastructure and environmental considerations. The program is a cornerstone of Arizona’s efforts to regulate OHV use, support law enforcement, and fund OHV-friendly infrastructure projects.
Large Scale Grants are designed for comprehensive, high-impact OHV projects. Eligible activities include the development and maintenance of trails, acquisition of land for new OHV routes, trail design and engineering, development of support facilities, and completion of required cultural and environmental clearances. Educational and law enforcement components can also be integrated into proposals, reflecting the fund’s commitment to responsible recreation and resource protection.
The grant is open to a wide range of applicants including governmental entities (such as cities, counties, tribal governments, and state and federal agencies), nonprofits, and clubs. This broad eligibility fosters collaboration across sectors to address the growing demand for high-quality OHV recreation infrastructure and education in Arizona.
All projects funded through the OHV program operate on a reimbursement basis. Applicants must submit a detailed scope of work outlining eligible expenses and deliverables. The size of available funding is variable and determined based on the scope, needs, and justification of each project. Projects are expected to comply with administrative guidelines and reporting standards set forth in the Grants Manual.
Application periods are announced by Arizona State Parks and Trails, and awards are made based on priority ranking, feasibility, alignment with program objectives, and statewide need. Applicants are encouraged to contact the agency’s Grants and Trails team for assistance throughout the process. Additional details, including the required documentation and funding manual, are available through the Arizona State Parks website.
This program represents a strategic investment in sustainable OHV infrastructure and safety throughout Arizona, helping agencies and organizations implement long-term projects that improve recreational access while preserving natural landscapes.
