USDA Forest Service - WO Lands-LWCF

The Great American Outdoors Act and Your National Forests

Enacted in 2020, the Great American Outdoors Act provides permanent and full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, thereby increasing funding for the Forest Service's LWCF land acquisition program. This investment will improve public access by funding strategic land acquisitions, support locally-led conservation efforts and protect our natural heritage. It will also create jobs and expand access to the outdoors by protecting natural resources.

Image of Dakota Prarie National Grasslands in North Dakota.

Created by Congress in 1964, the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) provides money to federal, state and local governments to purchase land, water and wetlands for the the benefit of all Americans. From majestic forests and snowcapped mountains, to wild rivers and stunning beaches, these acquisitions become part of your national forests. Lands and waters purchased through the LWCF are used to:

Provide recreational opportunities
Provide clean water
Preserve wildlife habitat
Enhance scenic vistas
Protect archaeological and historical sites
Maintain the pristine nature of wilderness areas

Image of Etowah watershed in Georgia. Land is bought from landowners at fair-market value (unless the owner chooses to offer the land as a donation or at a bargain price).

The Fund receives money mostly from fees paid by companies drilling offshore for oil and gas. Other funding sources include the sale of surplus federal real estate and taxes on motorboat fuel.

FY25 NFS Land Acquisition Projects can be found here

The Great American Outdoors Act and the Land and Water Conservation Fund

On this page you can access the LWCF Map Viewer

The Great American Outdoors Act and Your National Forests

Request for "Core" LWCF Project Nominations for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 LWCF