Program Fee Assistance

Three Rivers invites you to explore, connect and play in the great outdoors. Our goal is to make our education programs accessible to all and we offer financial support for Group Education Programs through Program Fee Assistance.

Education programs can be booked at the following locations: Gale Woods Farm, Silverwood Park, Baker Outdoor Learning Center, Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, The Landing, Outdoor Recreation School, Richardson Nature Center, Lowry Nature Center and Eastman Nature Center.

What is Program Fee Assistance?

Program Fee Assistance is a discount that helps groups with financial need experience educational programs in the parks.

Based on financial need, groups may receive a 30-100% discount on their program fees. It is important to us that groups have access to Three Rivers education programs.

Who Qualifies for Program Fee Assistance?

Groups in suburban Hennepin County or Scott County that serve individuals with financial need may qualify for Program Fee Assistance. A minimum of 30% of your group must have financial need to qualify.

Financial need is based on the percentage of group members who qualify for any of the following services:

  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Emergency Medical Assistance (EMA)
  • Minnesota Care
  • General Assistance (GA)
  • Minnesota Family Investment Act (MFIP)
  • Medical Assistance (MA)
  • Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA)
  • Hennepin County Emergency Assistance Program (HCEAP)
  • Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA)
  • Diversionary Work Program (DWP)
  • Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
  • Supplemental Nutrition Program Employment and Training Program (SNAP E&T)
  • Free and Reduced School Lunch Program
  • Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program

A group of boys stand in a line on a trail while a counselor counts them.

If you are an individual who lives in Hennepin County or Scott County, you can apply for the Recreation Pass Plus to receive discounts on programs.

How Do I Apply for Program Fee Assistance?

There is not an application for Program Fee Assistance. Contact a Three Rivers education center to book a group education experience and ask about Program Fee Assistance.

You will need to provide an estimate of the percentage of group members who qualify for any of the services listed in the above section. Discount eligibility will be determined at the time of booking.

Will My Information Be Kept Confidential?

All information is confidential and will not be used for any purpose other than communication about this and other relevant Three Rivers programs.

What Other Assistance is Available?

Many Three Rivers education sites offer a variety of weather-appropriate clothing and other outdoor gear to help your group have a great experience.

If there is something your group needs to participate in a Three Rivers program safely and comfortably, please let us know. 

Additionally, Three Rivers offers Transportation Fee Assistance to help your group get to the parks. 

Learn about other fee assistance Three Rivers Parks offers.

Contact Us

Have questions? Call us at 763-559-6700.