Michigan's Hunting Access Program (HAP) was created in 1977 to increase public hunting opportunities in southern Michigan where 97 percent of the land base is privately owned. This program is now one of the oldest dedicated private lands public access programs in the nation.
HAP provides access to quality private hunting lands close to urban centers and in agricultural areas. Availability of hunting lands close to home is critical for attracting new and retaining current hunters and supporting Michigan’s strong hunting tradition.
HAP now provides financial incentives to landowners in most counties within the lower peninsula of Michigan and a portion of the eastern upper peninsula who allow hunters access to their lands. Using funds from a new federal grant, the DNR plans to significantly expand the number of acres and properties available within the HAP program.
HAP lands are privately owned lands for which the landowners have agreed to allow public access. All hunters are responsible to know and understand the rules of the program, as well as rules of each property and state and federal regulations. Please treat these privately owned lands with respect and observe the following:
Would you like to see if your land qualifies to be leased for Hunting Access? The Berrien County Conservation District manages the leases between the landowner and the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources. Payments are based on habitat type and hunting type allowed and will range from $2 per acre up to $20 per acre with a $5 per acre additional bonus for CRP property. A minimum of 40 huntable acres with 20 percent being forest, wetland, or grassland is necessary to qualify. Payments are made once a year in the spring. Call today if interested! 269-471-9111 x3.