Public Access

Wildlife Conservation Board’s Public Access Program’s projects should focus on creating meaningful outdoor experiences for all Californians. Projects should provide public benefits, leverage funding to produce the greatest benefit, and provide access to natural and wild areas. Access to nature is critical to human health and wellbeing, yet outdoor access and its many benefits are not equitably distributed or equally welcoming to all communities. WCB supports California’s Outdoors for All Initiative by funding Planning and Construction projects that support wildlife-oriented recreation and nature-focused education throughout the state.   Planning grants are intended to support the development of projects that are likely to qualify for future implementation funding under this program. Implementation grants are intended for construction or enhancement of public access facilities. WCB is committed to providing support for the full range of outdoor activities that are compatible with our habitat protection mandate: Hunting and fishing Non-consumptive recreation including but not limited to birdwatching, hiking, cycling, and environmental education