Hunter Access Grant Program

The Hunter Access Grant Program is administered by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), specifically through its Division of Wildlife Conservation (DWC). This initiative is supported by federal funds through the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act, which are passed through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to the state. The goal of the program is to increase opportunities and improve access to public lands and facilities across Alaska for hunters, trappers, target shooters, archery enthusiasts, and others who engage in wildlife-related recreational activities. For the 2026 funding cycle, the program will distribute an estimated $1 million in federal funds. The program prioritizes proposals that request federal funding exceeding $30,000, though projects with lower budgets may be considered on a case-by-case basis. The funding structure requires a non-federal match of at least 25%, with a 75% reimbursement of eligible costs from the program. In select cases—particularly for target or archery range projects—the match requirement may be reduced to 10% if selected for award. All projects must occur on public lands or at public facilities, and applicants must demonstrate prior federal grant experience and the capacity to maintain the improvements over time. Eligible applicants include public and nonprofit organizations that are authorized to conduct business with the federal government. These entities must submit proposals that directly enhance or develop access to wildlife resources. The proposed projects may include, but are not limited to, the construction or improvement of trails, roads, parking areas, campgrounds, boat launches, bridges, and shooting ranges. To date, the program has disbursed approximately $18 million in federal funds toward more than 25 access enhancement projects throughout the state. The application period for the 2026 cycle begins on February 1, 2026. Applicants who submit proposals before March 20, 2026, may receive a courtesy administrative review. The final deadline for submission is April 10, 2026, at 4:30 PM Alaska Daylight Time. Following this, successful applicants will be notified in late May 2026. From June through October 2026, the USFWS will conduct project reviews and finalize scopes of work, after which formal grant agreements will be issued. Proposals will be evaluated and scored using standardized criteria published on the ADF&G Hunter Access Program website. In addition to submitting the application, applicants are encouraged to review the available guidance documents, frequently asked questions, and program expectations listed online. The program is structured to ensure transparency and encourage diverse participation from across the state. Interested parties can obtain further information or support by contacting Katie Sechrist-Gaynos, the Hunter Access Program Coordinator, via phone at 907-267-2541 or by email at either [email protected] or [email protected]. Additional materials and resources, including the full grant announcement and application package, can be accessed at [https://adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=hunteraccess.grantapplication](https://adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=hunteraccess.grantapplication).