Deschutes Trails Coalition Small Project Grant Program Awards Funding to Support Trail Stewardship and Recreation Infrastructure

The Deschutes Trails Coalition is thrilled to announce our Small Project Grant Program awardees for five projects totaling $30,000 that will enhance trail development, maintenance capacity, and recreation opportunities throughout Central Oregon. These investments support local organizations dedicated to improving access to public lands, maintaining sustainable trail systems, and expanding volunteer stewardship efforts.

The following projects have been selected to receive Small Project Grant funding:

Oregon Equestrian Trails – Sisters Trail Additions and Realignments (STAR): New Trail Construction by OET

Funding will support the construction of new trail segments and strategic trail realignments in the Sisters area. The project will improve trail connectivity, enhance user experiences for equestrians and other recreationists, and promote sustainable trail design practices that protect natural resources.

Central Oregon Trail Alliance – Skid Steer Equipment Upgrades

This grant will provide upgrades to critical skid steer equipment used for trail construction and maintenance. Enhanced equipment capacity will allow trail crews to work more efficiently, improve trail sustainability, and increase the organization’s ability to complete high-priority trail projects across the region.

Dirty Freehub – Dirty Freehub Tools Request

Funding will help purchase essential tools that support trail assessment, route documentation, and stewardship activities. The new equipment will strengthen Dirty Freehub’s ability to maintain and promote high-quality gravel cycling experiences while supporting responsible recreation and trail conservation.

Sisters Trails Alliance – STAR Trail Building & Maintenance Tools

The Sisters Trails Alliance will use grant funds to acquire trail-building and maintenance tools to implement the Sisters Trails Alliance Rangers (STAR) project, a collaborative project with multiple trail organizations resulting in 17 miles of new trail and 42 miles of trail improvement. These tools will increase volunteer effectiveness, improve trail maintenance efforts, and support the continued growth of community-based stewardship initiatives.

Friends of the Central Cascades Wilderness – Additional Trail Tools to Increase Trail Crew Capacity

Grant funding will enable the purchase of additional trail tools to expand volunteer trail crew capacity throughout the Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. Washington Wildernesses. The project will help crews maintain more miles of trail, improve public access, and address ongoing maintenance needs in wilderness areas heavily used by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

“These projects demonstrate the dedication of local organizations and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain and improve our region’s trail systems,” said Jana Johnson, Executive Director of the DTC, “By investing in tools, equipment, and trail infrastructure, the Small Projects Grants help ensure that residents and visitors can continue to enjoy safe, sustainable, and accessible outdoor recreation opportunities.”

Collectively, the funded projects will strengthen trail stewardship efforts, support volunteer engagement, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of Central Oregon’s recreation assets.

This story is based on submitted information and has not been verified by our news team.