Need a Place to Hunt? Video Highlights DNR Program Opening New Acres for Public Access
November 14,2012
MADISON - This year, hunters have the opportunity to enjoy access to nearly 29,000 new acres of private land open to the public within close proximity of the state’s metropolitan areas. A new Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources video captures the success of the Voluntary Public Access program in opening up large tracts of prime habitat land, often connected to public land, for multiple outdoor recreational activities.
“Given the boon our small local economies see with hunting seasons combined with the need to continue our hunting heritage around urban areas, it’s really important for our state to have this successful program in place. It’s a win for landowners, hunters, local businesses and conservation. I hope anyone interested in finding a place to hunt will watch this video,” said DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp.
In one year, the VPA program secured 261 lease agreements in 41 counties for a total of over 43,000 acres when taking into consideration acres enrolled in a previous lease program. The program, administered by DNR, provides financial incentives to private landowners who open their property to public hunting, fishing, trapping and wildlife observation.
“We are working hard to increase public access for hunting and other uses. This program is a model, opening up acres across the state to multiple uses from deer hunting to bird watching. The detailed maps and easy accessibility is the kind of customer service we aim to provide outdoor enthusiasts in Wisconsin,” said Sec. Stepp.
The VPA video can be viewed at http://youtu.be/-R-vaMr83mE. To locate a VPA property or to learn more about the program please visit dnr.wi.gov, search keyword “VPA.”
Additionally, those interested in learning more about this and other public access programs are invited to join the DNR for an online chat, Nov. 15, 11:30 a.m. Visit the DNR home page, dnr.wi.gov, and look for the advertisement or search the phrase “ask the experts” to join representatives from the DNR’s Managed Forest Law, Voluntary Public Access and Public Lands programs to learn about the millions of private and public acres of prime habitat open for public hunting.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Melissa Keenan, VPA Program Coordinator, (608) 266-5560, or Jennifer Pelej, Public Affairs Manager, (608) 264-9248