The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is offering $100,000 in marketing grants to promote outdoor recreation.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is offering $100,000 in marketing grants to promote outdoor recreation.

The grants are for communities, groups, organizations, public-private partnerships, nongovernment agencies or political subdivisions looking for help in promoting outdoor recreation.

“Outdoor recreation is a major industry in Nebraska with an annual economic impact of more than a $1.7 billion,” Game and Parks Director Jim Douglas said. “The Outdoor Recreation Marketing Grant Program will help communities and regions promote their outdoor amenities and recreational opportunities, which stimulate tourism, economic development and recruit more people to partake in outdoor activities.”

While all projects, events and campaigns must promote outdoor recreation, preference is given to marketing campaigns promoting Game and Parks’ public areas (wildlife management areas, state parks, state recreation areas, and Open Fields and Waters sites). These areas are where the public may participate in outdoor recreational activities, conservation efforts, stewardship of natural resources or similar initiatives supporting Game and Parks’ outreach, education and marketing goals.

“Research shows that Nebraskans currently are only spending 9 percent of their time on outdoor recreation; however, Nebraskans want to participate in more outdoor activities,” said Game and Parks Communications Director Christy Rasmussen. “Studies show that people simply need more information on opportunities to participate and how to get involved. These grant funds will help residents and nonresidents alike learn about the wealth of outdoor amenities and things to do in Nebraska.”

Grants are available in the following categories: event promotion, regional promotion and outdoor destination promotion. The individual grant amounts will range from $2,000 to $25,000, and grants will be awarded on a reimbursement basis

The application deadline is Oct. 31, and grants will be awarded Nov. 22. This year’s program will run through June 30, 2014.

For more information, or to apply, visit the Outdoor Nebraska webpage.