Hunters, anglers, and wildlife viewers now have access to about 6,300 acres of private land through the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Missouri Outdoor Recreational Access Program (MRAP).
MRAP lands are privately owned properties in which the landowners voluntarily agree to allow public access. In return, MDC provides the landowners with annual incentive payments and habitat improvement assistance. Approximately 6,300 acres are currently enrolled in the program and open to the public.
MRAP properties range in size from a few to several hundred acres and offer varying types of outdoor recreation. Participating landowners determine the activities that may occur on their land by selecting one of the public-access options offered by the program: 1) All Access Hunting and Fishing, 2) Small Game and Turkey Hunting, 3) Youth Only Hunting and Fishing, 4) Archery Hunting, 5) Fishing, and 6) Wildlife Viewing Only.
MRAP properties are open to foot traffic only and area users are asked to self-register at the designated parking and entry points. All rules and regulations enforced by MDC apply on MRAP lands.
MRAP land must meet minimum habitat requirements. This new program is largely funded by a $1.1 million grant from the US Department of Agriculture’s Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program.
For more information on MRAP and to find available properties, visit this MDC website. The web page includes maps of enrolled properties, public access options, rules and procedures, and enrollment information for landowners.
