Deschutes Trails Coalition offers $30,000 grants for trail projects

DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) The Deschutes Trails Coalition announced today that it is accepting applications for its 2026 Small Project Grant program. The initiative will award up to $30,000 to support multiple trail-focused projects within the Deschutes National Forest and Deschutes County.

The grant program is designed to fund small-scale projects that maintain or restore existing trails in Central Oregon. This funding supports the coalition's mission of ensuring trail sustainability through its "Four Pillars" of environmental, economic, physical and social values.

Project proposals are eligible if they occur on or impact publicly accessible trails within Deschutes County. The grant also covers portions of the Deschutes National Forest that extend into neighboring counties. The coalition specifically encourages applications for projects that maintain or restore existing trail infrastructure.

The Deschutes Trails Coalition is composed of representatives from conservation, business, tourism and trail-user communities. These members collaborate to develop recommendations for creating and envisioning a sustainable trail system throughout the Central Oregon region.

The organization operates under four pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic, physical and social. All coalition goals and trail improvements are driven by these core values.

Specific organizational objectives include instilling a stewardship ethic in both local residents and visitors. The coalition also aims to increase community recognition of its role in sustaining regional trails.

The grant program also seeks to promote equitable access for underrepresented communities to ensure positive trail experiences for all users. Furthermore, the coalition works to encourage community and visitor investment that reflects the social and economic value of the trail system.

Grant applications must be submitted by May 22, 2026. The Deschutes Trails Coalition has made the official request for proposal and application forms available on its website.