With the support of a previous multistate conservation grant, we found that 39% of wildlife viewers (people who participate in observing, feeding, or photographing wildlife, or maintain plantings…

With the support of a previous multistate conservation grant, we found that 39% of wildlife viewers (people who participate in observing, feeding, or photographing wildlife, or maintain plantings for the benefit of wildlife) reported experiencing accessibility challenges defined as the difficulties someone experiences in interacting with or while using the physical or social environment while trying to engage in a meaningful activity (such as wildlife viewing). This may be a result of a mobility challenge, blindness or low vision, intellectual or developmental disabilities (including autism), mental illness, being deaf or hard of hearing, or other health concerns. Despite this large number, little is known about how to serve this community, which include many disabled hunters and anglers, or disabled viewers with no previous connection with state agencies. Understanding more about developing inclusive programs and accessible locations is vital to broaden agency relevancy.with our current multistate conservation grant (F24AP00315), we conducted a literature review about including disabled wildlife viewers in programming and ensuring locations are physically accessible. We then led focus groups of disabled wildlife viewers to inform recommendations on how agencies can increase inclusion. These findings will help agencies understand disabled wildlife viewers preferences for accessibility improvements, what factors of wildlife viewing programs feel inclusive, and how state agencies can best support them. Still, IT is just a first step. State agencies have asked US for additional support to understand how to develop accessible programming, sites, and communications for disabled wildlife recreationists. They have told US they could benefit from real-world examples of accessible design and inclusive programming. We will conduct a case study approach through site visits, observations, and interviews.