Delta Celebrates NRCS Action on Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program

VPA-HIP increases quality waterfowl hunting opportunities, provides critical habitat

BISMARCK, NORTH DAKOTA — The Natural Resources Conservation Service announced on Friday a new funding window for the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program. VPA-HIP provides grant money to states to implement public access for hunting and fishing on privately owned farms and ranches, as well as for habitat conservation practices.

“With access being regularly identified as one of the key needs of duck hunters, we are very appreciative of NRCS opening up this funding to create new access and opportunity for hunters this coming fall,” said John Devney, Delta Waterfowl’s chief policy officer. 

Last year, as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Congress reauthorized the program and expanded its funding ceiling to historic levels.

Quality waterfowl hunting opportunities are one of Delta’s highest priorities, and robust funding for VPA-HIP is a crucial tool to create more access for hunters.

“While the work goes on towards the passage of a Farm Bill, we’re grateful for the NRCS leadership in making these funds available to continue this important program and sustaining these great and unique programs in the states,” Devney said. “Whether it has been PLOTS (Private Land Open to Sportsmen) in North Dakota, WRICE (Arkansas Waterfowl Rice Incentive Conservation Enhancement), and many other examples, VPA-HIP is significant for duck hunters across the country.”

Delta Waterfowl is The Duck Hunters Organization, a leading conservation group founded in 1911 that uses science-based solutions to produce ducks, conserve prairie wetlands, and ensure the future of waterfowl hunting in North America. Visit our website.

For more information, contact John Devney.