Episode 34: Voluntary Public Access – A Farm Bill Success

Voluntary Public Access Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP): A Farm Bill Success with TRCP’s Alex Maggos and Illinois landowner Zane Zaubi

2018 Farm Bill: VPA-HIP

The Farm Bill’s Voluntary Public Access- Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP) has improved recreational access for hunters and anglers across 30 states. This week, we’re on the phone with Alex Maggos of TRCP and Zane Zaubi to talk about how VPA-HIP directly benefits hunter recruitment efforts. Zane is a key landowner partner who is enrolled in Illinois’ Recreational Access Program (IRAP) who walks us through his experience and advice as a landowner partner. Thank you Zane and Alex!

Illinois Recreational Access Program

Did you know that 95% of Illinois is privately-owned? With a limited amount of public lands, finding a place to hunt can be challenging for new hunters. The Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP) has created access to 19,600 acres across 49 counties in the state. It has also worked with participating landowner partners like Zane Zaubi to enhance habitat on over 11,000 acres. VPA-HIP funding through the Farm Bill is critical to providing hunters in states like Illinois with quality places to enjoy the outdoors. Its a win-win for everyone.

Learn more about the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. TRCP is one of North America’s most respected conservation organizations. Its a trusted and bipartisan voice for wildlife, habitat and hunters & anglers. Click on their website HERE

To learn more about the importance of public access on private lands, click on TRCP’s post HERE

Zane Zaubi – Illinois Recreational Access Program participating landowner with a great buck

TRCP’s Alex Maggos with a great IL whitetail buck