Voluntary Public Access-Habitat Incentive Program
Forecasted
The Voluntary Public Access-Habitat Incentive Program by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission supports public fishing access and stream habitat improvements through conservation easements with landowners.
Funder: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Due Dates: Currently closed to new applications; future calls announced via press release
Funding Amounts: One-time payment per easement; amount varies by stream frontage length, location, and fishing quality
Summary: Incentivizes Pennsylvania landowners to provide public fishing access and improve stream habitats through conservation easements.
Key Information: New applications are not being accepted until additional funding is available.
Description
The Voluntary Public Access-Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP), administered by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, aims to increase public fishing opportunities and enhance stream habitats across Pennsylvania. The program collaborates with private landowners to establish conservation easement agreements, allowing public fishing access and habitat improvements along designated stream frontages while landowners retain full ownership and control. Priority is given to projects on high-quality fishing streams, areas supporting native or threatened species, locations with unique partnership opportunities, and properties that extend existing public access corridors.
