The environmental initiative program helps initiate or implement projects that enhance ecological integrity of publicly owned open spaces, while encouraging compatible human activities. The Laura Jane Musser Fund also has additional programs—rural initiative, intercultural harmony, arts, and Little Falls/Morrison County.
Grant Guide
Overview
Application & Review Process
Deadline: March 14, 2024
A proposal should be submitted online. Supplementary documents are required, including personnel lists, letters of support, budgets, maps and plans, anti-discrimination policy, etc.
Funding Amount
Up to $35,000
Planning grants can be up to $8,000, while implementation grants can be up to $35,000. The grant program typically issues five to seven grants per year.
Eligibility
Projects
Planning or implementation projects that involve active participation from the local community and promote responsible public use of open spaces. Ineligible projects include: parking lots or driveways, repairing buildings, farms, or land acquisition.
Land/Resource
People/Engagement
Applicants
Local units of government and 501(3)(3) nonprofit entities are eligible.
Government Entity
501(c)(3) Nonprofit
Land Type & Geography
This program funds projects in MN, CO, HI, WY, and parts of TX.
State 
Regional
Local
Parks 
Trails
Statistics & Examples
Funding History
| Year | Funds Awarded | # Projects | Average Award |
| 2020 | $122,990 | 6 | $20,498 |
| 2019 | $162,143 | 8 | $20,268 |
| 2018 | $158,045 | 7 | $22,578 |
| 2017 | $134,884 | 7 | $19,269 |
| 2016 | $111,000 | 5 | $22,200 |
| 2015 | $136,200 | 5 | $27,240 |
2020 Project Distribution
Past Award Examples
| Amount | Recipient | Project |
| $8,000 | Sheridan County Conservation District | Acme reclamation planning project |
| $25,000 | Friends of the Mississippi River | Engage residents to steward Inver Grove Heights natural areas |
| $25,000 | Urban Roots | Rivoli conservation demonstration site |
| $30,000 | Minnesota Land Trust | St. Louis River corridor revitalization initiative |
| $34,990 | Wood Lake Nature Center | Forest restoration |