Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund

The Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund is a state-administered grant program established by the Mississippi Legislature through the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Act of 2022. The program is administered by the Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration and overseen by a Board of Trustees responsible for evaluating and awarding funding. The fund was created to support investment in outdoor recreation, conservation, and natural resource management across Mississippi. Its mission centers on preserving and enhancing natural resources while expanding access to outdoor recreation, protecting wildlife habitats, and supporting economic development tied to natural resource use. The primary purpose of the program is to provide financial assistance for projects that improve public access to outdoor recreation and conserve Mississippi natural resources. Eligible project types include improvements to state and local parks and trails, restoration or enhancement of conservation lands and habitats, development of access points to public waters, and conservation work on privately owned agricultural or forest lands that benefit soil, water, and wildlife. The program also supports projects that protect wetlands, forests, and habitats, improve water quality, and enhance recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and hunting. However, as of June 12, 2024, land acquisition projects are temporarily not being considered for funding. The funding structure is flexible, with no stated minimum or maximum award amounts. Projects are funded based on available appropriations and are evaluated competitively. The program operates as a reimbursement grant, meaning recipients must initially cover project costs and then request reimbursement with proper documentation. While there is no formal matching requirement, applicants are strongly encouraged to include matching funds, as they significantly increase scoring competitiveness. Matching contributions may include cash, grants, in-kind labor, donated materials, or property, provided they meet program guidelines. Eligible applicants include state agencies, counties, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status focused on conservation and natural resource protection. Private landowners may also participate if they partner with an eligible nonprofit organization. Applicants must demonstrate organizational eligibility, provide required documentation such as audits and proof of good standing, and ensure that all project components are located within the state of Mississippi. Applications must be submitted through an online portal during designated application periods, and incomplete submissions are not accepted. The application process is competitive and involves multiple evaluation stages. Applications are first reviewed by staff for eligibility and completeness, then scored by the Board of Trustees based on a detailed scoring system totaling up to 480 points. Criteria include confirmed matching funds, public benefit, environmental impact, project feasibility, community support, and long-term sustainability. Projects are ranked based on their scores, and final funding decisions are made by the Board. Applicants may be asked to provide additional information during the review process. The application cycle typically occurs annually, with submission windows generally opening in August and closing in September. For the 2026 cycle, applications open on August 3, 2026, and are expected to close on September 18, 2026. Applicants may begin preparing applications earlier by registering in the online system starting July 1, 2026. Award decisions are typically made in early the following year, and approved projects must enter into a formal agreement before receiving a Notice to Proceed. Once awarded, projects must be completed within a 24-month period. Recipients are required to submit quarterly progress reports, reimbursement requests, and a final report upon project completion. The program imposes long-term obligations on recipients, including maintaining the funded property for conservation purposes and complying with reporting, documentation, and audit requirements. Program staff are available to provide guidance, and applicants may contact the program via email or phone for assistance throughout the application process.

Provide confirmed matching funds to increase scoring; Clearly define project scope and measurable outcomes; Include strong documentation and community support; Ensure all required documents are complete to avoid disqualification