Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program competition for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2026

The National Resources Conservation Service is soliciting applications for the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program for fiscal year 2026, with an application deadline of June 8, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Only federally recognized tribal governments and state governments are eligible to apply; each state or tribe may submit one application, and no cost share is required.

NRCS will award up to $52 million through this competitive grant program, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $3 million. The agency expects to make 23 to 30 total awards. Projects must be 1 to 3 years in duration with an estimated start date of September 30, 2026. Work is performed within the applicant state or tribe's jurisdiction.

The program funds creation or enhancement of state and tribal government programs that encourage private landowners to voluntarily open farm, ranch, and forest land for public hunting, fishing, and wildlife-dependent recreation. Grantees may use funding for financial incentives to landowners, infrastructure and equipment, and habitat improvements. Up to 25 percent of each award may support wildlife habitat improvements on enrolled lands, which must comply with NRCS conservation practice standards. Technical assistance costs are capped at 10 percent. NRCS requires awardees to target Wetland Reserve Easement landowners to maximize public access on these conserved lands.

Participating agricultural producers must meet 7 CFR Parts 12 and 1400 eligibility requirements and the $900,000 adjusted gross income limitation. Merit review uses 100 points total: Goals, Objectives, and Approach (40 points); Project Benefits (30 points); and Project Management (30 points). Indirect costs are capped at 15 percent unless the applicant holds a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement with the federal government.

CFDA 10.093.