Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program Grants

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is announcing the availability of up to $52 million in funding for the Voluntary Public Access-Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP) for Federal Fiscal Year 2026. This competitive grant program aims to create or enhance state and Tribal government programs that encourage private landowners of farm, ranch, and forest land to voluntarily provide public access for hunting, fishing, and other wildlife-dependent recreation. Projects can be up to three years in duration, with a maximum award of $3 million per project. Up to 25% of award funding can be used for incentives to improve wildlife habitat on enrolled public access program lands. Eligible applicants are federally recognized Native American tribal governments and state governments. The application deadline is June 8, 2026.