PILLAR: Vibrant
AGENDA DATE: September 23, 2026
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): Citywide
DEPARTMENT: Park & Recreation Department
PRIORITY: N/A
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SUBJECT
Title
Authorize an application for the Community Outdoor Outreach Program Grant in the amount of $100,000.00 from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for the Eco Teens Program for citywide use - Financing: This action has no cost consideration to the City (see Fiscal Information)
Body
BACKGROUND
The Dallas Park & Recreation Department is seeking Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Community Outdoor Outreach Program (CO-OP) funding to expand its Eco Teens program, which provides urban youth with hands-on environmental education and outdoor recreation experiences. Through field trips, conservation projects, outdoor skill-building, and partnerships with local environmental organizations, participants develop an understanding of natural resources while fostering environmental stewardship and exploring careers in conservation. The proposed project will enhance the program by increasing opportunities for nature-based learning, expanding participant engagement, and reducing barriers to outdoor recreation, creating lasting connections between Dallas youth and the natural environment.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department administers the Community Outdoor Outreach Program Grant. Funding for this program comes from a portion of the state sales tax on sporting goods through the Texas Recreation and Parks Account, the Texas Large County and Municipality Recreation and Parks Account, and from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund.
The CO-OP grant provides funding to tax-exempt organizations for programming that engages under-served populations in TPWD mission-oriented outdoor recreation, conservation and environmental education activities. The funds are used to introduce under-served populations to environmental and conservation programs a...
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