The Norma and Stanley DeBoer Quiet Trails Fund

Creating and maintaining nature trails in Wisconsin

The Norma and Stanley DeBoer Quiet Trails Fund provides funding to support the creation and maintenance of quiet trails (e.g., walking, hiking, or skiing) in Wisconsin. Grants range from $500 to $1,000.

Grantmaking Priorities:

• The primary purpose is to create and maintain walking, hiking, or skiing trails open to the public in Wisconsin. This includes, but is not limited to: increasing access for people with disabilities; identification of trail locations; surveying; purchase of materials; construction; clean-up activities; repairs of trail surfaces, railings, or existing signage; and fees for necessary professional services.
• The secondary purpose is to enhance and promote quiet trails through activities including: habitat improvement adjacent to the trail; development, creation and installation of directional or explanatory signage and trail guide booklets; and modest costs of events designed to increase awareness and/or use of quiet trails.

Eligibility:

• Applicant must be one of the following: a public charity with approved 501(c)(3) exempt status (under section 509(a)(1), 509(a)(2), or 509(a)(3) Type I and Type II status); a federal, state, or local governmental unit, an American Indian nation or tribal community; or an accredited school, college, or university. The following types of organizations are not eligible for funding: individuals; businesses; section 509(a)(3) Type III supporting organizations; section 501(c)(4) organizations; section 501(c)(7) organizations; private foundations; and private operating foundations.
• Projects must support trails in Wisconsin that are open to the public.
• Projects must support walking, hiking, or skiing trails.
• Funding may not be used to support projects associated with trails open to motorized vehicles (e.g., snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles) or mountain bikes.
• Project expenses may not have been incurred prior to submitting the application.

How to Apply:

1. Determine if your project addresses our grantmaking priorities and meets our eligibility requirements.
2. Complete the application (paper copies of applications are not accepted).
3. Include proof of IRS tax-exempt status (IRS form 501c3 tax determination letter).
4. Submit all materials to to Lindsey at NRFgrants@WisConservation.org by March 1st.
5. Applicants will be notified within six weeks.