Missouri Outdoor Recreational Access Program (MRAP) (MRAP)

MDC pays private landowners an annual per-acre incentive (most earn $25–$35 an acre per year) to open their land to walk-in public hunting, fishing or wildlife viewing under one of six access options. Enrolled landowners can raise their payment by adding habitat improvements and become eligible for enhanced cost-share of up to 90 percent for planned habitat practices. Enrollment is a three-year commitment and landowners get liability protection under Missouri's Recreational Use Immunity Law.

• At least 40 contiguous acres, with at least 20 percent of the tract in quality habitat (fishing-access land is exempt from the 40-acre and habitat requirements)

• All offered tracts must have public road frontage for legal public access

• Wildlife-viewing offers must have unique natural features, be within targeted urban zones and in counties with limited public land

Standard commitment is three years; walk-in access only, open one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset; annual payment set by access type, habitat quality, proximity to metro areas/priority geographies, and planned habitat improvements; enhanced cost-share up to 90% for planned habitat practices.

Published amounts: Payment rates are based on the criteria listed above, but most participants can expect to earn $25–$35 an acre, per year. ... Participants will also be eligible for enhanced cost-share incentives (up to 90 percent) to complete the planned habitat practices.

Contact the MRAP Coordinator or submit a completed MRAP Application Form (with a copy of your deed or most recent tax receipt) to MRAP@mdc.mo.gov or by mail to MRAP Coordinator, Missouri Department of Conservation, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Applications are ranked and enrolled throughout the year as funding is available.

Deadline text on the page: Applications will be ranked and chosen for enrollment throughout the year as funding is available.