CPW Motorized Trail Grants Guide for Clubs

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) offers Motorized Trail Grants to support projects that benefit off-highway vehicle (OHV) users—including motorcycle, ATV, and 4×4 riders. The grants are funded by OHV registration fees, meaning trail work across Colorado is directly supported by the riders.

Types of Motorized Trail Grants

Good Management (GM)

Purpose: Long-term maintenance by professional trail crews
Who can apply: Federal land managers (often in partnership with clubs)

Support Grants

Purpose: Tools, equipment, volunteer coordination, and outreach
Who can apply: Clubs, nonprofits, and land managers

Project Grants

Purpose: Trail construction, reroutes, rehabilitation, signage, etc.
Who can apply: Clubs, local governments, and land managers

OHV Planning Grants

Purpose: Environmental review, trail layout and design
Who can apply: Clubs, agencies, and consultants

 

The Application Process

1. Plan Early

  • Coordinate with your land manager (e.g., Forest Service, BLM) to identify priority projects. Understand the role of the local Regional Planning Group or effort if one exists. Their support and documents (priority and project lists) may be important in the future.
  • Ensure environmental clearance (like NEPA) is complete or in progress and will be finalized before the grant is awarded.
  • Research and understand any known or potential wildlife issues with CPW staff and other agency staff.
  • Identify any potential or known conflicts with adjacent land owners, other users, agencies, etc.
  • Build support and consensus. Gather letters of support from land managers, Regional Planning Groups, partner clubs, local businesses, local governments, trail users and other user groups, advocacy groups, and/or community organizations. Begin building support not only for letters of support but also by encouraging the submission of supportive public comments.

2. Attend CPW’s Grant Workshop

Held each fall, this optional but highly recommended workshop offers guidance, tips, and updates on the grant process.

3. Prepare Your Application (October – November)

Applications are submitted through CPW’s online system (usually ZOOMGRANTS) and typically include the following components:

  • A clear and specific project narrative that explains why the project is needed, how it enhances OHV recreation, and how it helps protect natural resources. Be sure to highlight why the project is timely and relevant both locally and statewide. Use data, statistics, and facts to support your case.
  • A budget using CPW templates, with detailed and accurate cost estimates.
  • Maps and photos (prioritize quality over quantity).
  • A timeline and list of deliverables.
  • Land manager approval and required documentation.
  • Match commitment (cash, in-kind, or volunteer hours — more is often better).
  • Gather public comments or letters of support that can be submitted to CPW as part of your application.

4. Submit by Deadline

Applications are usually due in early December. Incomplete applications may be disqualified.

5. Prepare for a Presentation (January/February)

All competitive grant applicants are asked to present to the State Trails OHV Subcommittee. Key details to keep in mind include:

  • In-person presentations are suggested but not required.
  • Presentations typically last 10–15 minutes and include a Q&A session—rehearse to stay within the time limit.
  • Emphasize project need, impact, readiness, resource protection, and community support and involvement.

6. Evaluation Criteria

Applications are evaluated and scored by CPW Regional Trail Coordinators and the OHV Subcommittee based on several factors (not in order of importance):

  • Need & Benefit of the Project – How will the project benefit and protect riding opportunities while safeguarding resources in the project area?
  • Partnership and Support – This includes letters of support and how the applicant will partner with agencies or other groups to complete the project while supporting other users.
  • Resource Protection – How will this project protect natural resources and increase sustainability?
  • Travel Management Plan / Education and Enforcement – How will the project promote responsible OHV recreation on public lands?

7. Award Notification

Notifications are made after the Q1 CPW Commission Meeting for the following work season.

  • Successful applicants receive an award letter and a grant contract.
  • Work cannot begin until the contract is fully executed.

Reimbursement & Reporting

CPW Motorized Trail Grants operate on a reimbursement basis, meaning you complete the work first and submit documentation to CPW to receive payment. Required documentation must be submitted to avoid delays or withholding of payment and typically includes:

  • Receipts and invoices
  • Volunteer logs and equipment hours
  • Photos of project work (before, during, after)
  • Progress and final reports

Key Tips for Success

  • Work closely with your land manager and agency staff from the start.
  • Build strong user and local community support early (e.g. Regional Planning Groups, local governments, etc.).
  • Demonstrate collaboration and partnerships with other users, stakeholders, and communities.
  • Smaller projects – both in scope and cost – are often more competitive and have a better chance of receiving funding than large scale projects.
  • Track match contributions carefully, including volunteer time, equipment use, donated materials).
  • Keep your club members informed and engaged, volunteer hours are a valuable part of your match.
  • Plan ahead: well-scoped, shovel-ready projects tend to score higher.

Regional Coordinator Map & Contacts

To assist you in connecting with the appropriate Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) representatives, below is a regional coordinator map and contact list.

CPW Regional Coordinator Map

Still Have Questions?

For questions about the Motorized Trail Grant process or help developing your project idea, contact your CPW Regional Trails Program. You can also reach out to our team at the Trails Preservation Alliance at info@coloradotpa.org. For more information, visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.