The Land Acquisition Program supports land conservation projects that protect natural resources and wildlife habitat and/or migration corridors, connect to adjacent landscapes, enhance climate resilience, strengthen local economies, and provide scenic views and public outdoor access.
Donor Name: Great Outdoors Colorado
State: Colorado
County: All Counties
Type of Grant: Grant | Reimbursement
Deadline: 07/24/2025
Size of the Grant: More than $1 million
Grant Duration: 3 Years
Details:
This includes unique open spaces, natural areas, and agricultural lands with significant conservation values. Priority will go to lands facing urgent threats, such as a significant land use change or other factors that will impair a property’s conservation or community values. In addition, GOCO prioritizes fee simple land acquisitions with public access and considers conservation easements when tax credits are financially insufficient or impractical.
Funding Information
- Competitive proposals are generally up to $3 million per project.
- GOCO loans and reimbursement opportunities may also be available to support acquisitions.
Grant Period
1-3 years for project completion, with flexibility based on deliverables.
Eligible Expenses
- Land acquisition costs at fair market value
- Transaction and due diligence costs, including staff time and capacity needed to complete the acquisition
- Site specific master and management plans, including community planning and engagement
- Immediate habitat restoration opportunities that protect or enhance ecological function on the acquired property, or immediate recreation asset development
- The following expenses will not be covered:
- Acquisition costs associated with existing buildings and other structures
- Project contingency.
Eligibility Criteria
- Colorado cities, towns, and counties
- Title 32 special districts eligible to receive Conservation Trust Fund distributions
- Land conservation organizations that support open space and natural area acquisitions
- Political subdivisions of the State of Colorado whose missions are to identify, manage, or acquire open space and natural areas
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
For more information, GOCO.
