Vadwr will modify existing programs and expand new efforts to increase the recruitment, retention, and reactivation of hunters

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VADWR) received a $2.65 million Formula Grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service under the Wildlife Restoration and Basic Hunter Education and Safety program (CFDA 15.611), awarded July 1, 2025, with a completion date of June 30, 2030. Under this five-year grant, VADWR will modify existing programs and implement new initiatives designed to increase the recruitment, retention, and reactivation of hunters throughout Virginia. The agency will develop and disseminate information resources for new hunters to enhance their experience, provide training opportunities and mentorship programs, and expand staff capacity to support new and returning hunters.

The grant also funds efforts to identify and engage new hunting audiences, improve information distribution channels, and advance communication platforms to support hunter recruitment and retention objectives. These activities align with the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act's mandate to support state fish and wildlife agencies in wildlife conservation and management, including hunter education and safety initiatives. VADWR will maintain separate cost records for the grant and retain supporting documentation as required by federal regulations.

This will include implementing initiatives that will provide information fornew hunters to ensure improved experience. Opportunities will be disseminated across staff to providetraining and mentors for new hunters. Efforts will also be taken advantage of to understand thepotential and new hunting audience, improve information distribution, and advance communicationplatforms, all to enhance the recruitment, retention and reactivation of hunters.