The Emergency and Mitigation Grants under the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Fund are managed by Arizona State Parks and Trails. These grants provide targeted funding for urgent trail-related issues that affect the safety and functionality of OHV recreational areas throughout the state. Created in response to the need for rapid intervention when unforeseen events occur, the program is part of the larger OHV Recreation Fund, established by the Arizona State Legislature in 1991 and supported by fuel tax revenues.
This program offers grants of up to $100,000 per project and is specifically designed to address damages to OHV trails caused by events such as vandalism, wildfires, and severe weather. Funding may also be used for dust mitigation and trash removal when these issues present immediate safety or environmental concerns. The purpose is to enable timely repairs or mitigation to prevent access restrictions or further degradation of trail systems.
Eligible applicants include a wide array of governmental and nonprofit entities. Governmental applicants may include cities, towns, counties, tribal governments, and state and federal agencies. Nonprofits and clubs involved in OHV management or stewardship may also apply. This broad eligibility ensures that local stakeholders can respond quickly to protect trail assets and maintain recreational access.
All funding is provided on a reimbursement basis. Applicants must submit a clear scope of work and demonstrate the emergency nature of their request, including how the project addresses a pressing need and aligns with OHV recreation objectives. While the program supports expedited review and disbursement, all projects must adhere to the same administrative and environmental compliance standards set by Arizona State Parks and Trails.
Applications are accepted during open funding cycles, and guidance is provided in the agency’s Grants Manual and Administrative Guidelines. Staff from Arizona State Parks are available to assist applicants with proposal development and compliance questions. For support, applicants are encouraged to contact the Grants and Trails Team via email at grantstaff@azstateparks.gov or by phone.
This grant program represents Arizona’s commitment to maintaining safe and accessible OHV trails by empowering stakeholders to take swift action in response to trail emergencies.
