NatureWorks projects are funded through the Ohio Parks and Natural Resources Bond Issue which was approved by Ohio voters in November 1993.

The acquisition, development, or rehabilitation of public park and recreation areas.

Applications should propose land acquisition for one park or a project for one park. The agency must have proper control (title or at least a 15-year non-revocable lease) to be eligible for a development or rehabilitation grant.

25% match of the project total. The source for at least 20% must be local funds (non-state or non-federal funds)

The cost of acquisition, development, or rehabilitation of public park and recreation areas.
The standard application deadline will be June 1st, annually. If June 1st falls on a weekend, the application deadline would be the following Monday. In some cases, appropriation of new funding is delayed which may impact the application deadline.
You must establish proof of ownership of the property to be developed or have in place an irrevocable lease on the property for, at minimum, 15 years.

Applications are due July 1, 2026
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