Program information

Walk-In Access (WIA) provides public recreational opportunities, such as hunting, bird-watching, nature photography and similar compatible uses, on private land that is already enrolled in existing conservation programs or lands with high quality natural cover.

WIA program is voluntary for landowners. Most landowners chose to enroll their property for two or three years. Enrolled lands are covered under the Minnesota recreational use laws that limit landowners' liability. DNR conservation officers handle trespass and hunting violations.

PROGRAM FUNDING: This program started in 2011 when the state received a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture's Voluntary Public Access Program.  This program continues to be supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under agreement NR2163XXXXG001. Additional funding includes:

  • A one-time appropriation from the Minnesota State Legislature in 2012
  • A $5.00 surcharge on nonresident hunting licenses
  • Donations of $1, $3, or $5 made by hunters purchasing deer and small game licenses
The DNR continues to seek permanent funding to continue the program into the future.

Minnesota's Walk-In Access Program is Established in Law

The 2012 Minnesota Legislature established a Walk-In Access (WIA) Program (Minnesota Statutes 97A.126) to provide public hunting access to wildlife habitat on private land. In 2023 Minnesota Legislature amended the statute to include bird-watching, nature photography and similar compatible uses. Approximately one-half of the acres enrolled in 2024 are open under this statute. Please visit "Find a WIA" page to determine which sites are open to additional uses. It is advisable to wear blaze colored (pink or orange) clothing to make yourself visible to others utilizing the site during hunting seasons.

Contact Us: For questions regarding the WIA Program, please contact us at [email protected].

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