The Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is a small state agency that manages grant programs to create outdoor recreation opportunities, protect the best of the state’s wildlife habitat and working farms and forests, and help return salmon and orcas from near extinction.
The No Child Left Inside grant program supports a variety of outdoor activities and learning experiences for youth, particularly those who are underserved. The goals include improving academic performance, self-esteem, personal responsibility, community involvement, personal health, and understanding of nature. Funding is segmented into three tiers, reflecting different project scales and financial needs, from $5,000 to $150,000 per project. Projects funded typically involve outdoor adventures and environmental education, such as backpacking, canoeing, outdoor education, fishing camps, orienteering, and rock climbing. A 25 percent match is required for the higher two funding tiers to encourage local commitment and extend the reach of state funds.