Provide funding for the block management program (BMP) ^ a highly successful public hunting access program that provides free public hunting access to nearly 7 million acres of private lands which…

The U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service Region 6 awarded $7.194 million in formula grant funding to the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Division under the Wildlife Restoration and Basic Hunter Education and Safety program (CFDA 15.611) for the period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. The grant provides funding for the Block Management Program (BMP), a public hunting access initiative that delivers free public hunting opportunities across nearly 7 million acres of private lands throughout Montana. This highly successful program generates significant hunting access opportunities for the general public on otherwise restricted private property.

The BMP represents a core conservation and public recreation service supported by the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act framework, which authorizes federal grants to state fish and wildlife agencies for wildlife restoration, management, and habitat conservation activities. Through this award, the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Division continues its demonstrated expertise in wildlife management, habitat stewardship, and public recreational access development, further advancing the program's mission of supporting responsible hunting practices and wildlife resource conservation across the state.

Provide funding for the block management program (BMP) ^ a highly successful public hunting access program that provides free public hunting access to nearly 7 million acres of private lands which support significant hunting opportunities across the state.