DNR announces grant to build hunting community

Sep 25, 2024

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting applications for this year’s round of funding for the Hunter Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation (R3) grant program. The grant program helps grow the number of hunters in Wisconsin and supports novices who want to learn to hunt.

The Hunter R3 grant funds projects that teach people the skills, knowledge, and attitudes to be responsible and safe hunters; provide instruction in safe firearm operations, ethics, game laws, outdoor survival, and first aid; and focus on hunter and recreational shooter recruitment and retention.

A total grant pool of $125,000 is available. Individual grant awards are normally limited to $25,000. Cost-sharing funds can be awarded to individuals or community-based organizations, Wisconsin tribes, universities, and schools.

Past grant recipient projects include:

• Archery range upgrades for urban after-school clubs
• Support for hunting-related expos focused on new audiences
• Learn-To-Hunt programs
• The purchase of outdoor wheelchairs for public use

The deadline to submit grant applications is 11:59 p.m. CST on Oct. 15, 2024.

You can find more information about applying, eligible items and resources on the DNR’s Hunter R3 Grant Program webpage.