The agency is considering implementation of a Conservation Access Pass for individuals who do not have a valid NCWRC hunting, fishing, or trapping license. Currently, all hunting, fishing and trapping licenses issued by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) grant the license holder access to and use of NCWRC property.
This Pass would grant those without a valid hunting, fishing and/or trapping license access to:
- Over 2 million acres of game lands
- Five NCWRC owned and managed shooting ranges
- Over 250 Boating Access areas (BAAs) to more than 100 bodies of water for non-registered vessel owners
Public Forums
Prior to beginning the implementation process for a Conservation Access Pass, the Commission would like to gather information on public attitudes, opinions, and concerns. The information collected from the public and other stakeholders through this effort will be used to inform the Commission’s decision-making process.
The NCWRC will host three regional and one virtual public forums to explain the Conservation Access Pass concept and solicit feedback. If you are unable to attend the forums at their scheduled times, the virtual forum will be recorded and posted to the agency’s YouTube channel and webpage.
The public forums are designed to do three things:
- Explain what is under consideration regarding a Conservation Access Pass
- Provide answers to frequently asked questions and answer any additional questions posed
- Gather your feedback and input about what is being considered
Mountain Region
The Mountain Region meeting will be held in Asheville, Buncombe Co.
Date: Thursday, February 20
Time: 7-9 p.m.
Location: Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Ferguson Auditorium, Fernihurst Dr., Asheville, NC 28801
Google Map Directions
Eastern Region
The Eastern Region meeting will be held in Greenville, Pitt Co.
Date: Tuesday, February 25
Time: 7-9 p.m.
Location: Pitt Community College, 169 Bulldog Run, Winterville, NC 28590
Google Map Directions
Central Region
The Central Region meeting will be held in Greensboro, Guilford Co.
Date: Wednesday, February 26
Time: 7-9 p.m.
Location: Guilford Technical Community College, 3505 E. Wendover Avenue, Greensboro, NC; Room 152 AB Combined
Google Map Directions
Virtual
Virtual Webinar via Zoom: Register to Attend.
Date: Tuesday, March 4
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Have ideas, comments or questions? Submit them here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of activities would require this pass?
- Hiking, bird watching, biking, camping, dog walking, geocaching, foraging, etc. on game lands.
- Paddling non-motorized vessels from BAAs.
- Target shooting at WRC-managed shooting ranges.
If I have a Commercial Use Permit, will the individuals participating in the activity need to hold a Conservation Access Pass?
No, individuals participating under a Commercial or Event Use Permit will not need a Conservation Access Pass while participating in the permitted activity.
Will individuals with registered vessels be required to have this pass, either while using their registered vessel on a boat ramp or participating in another activity like hiking or biking?
No pass required to use a BAA. Unless otherwise licensed, individuals with a registered vessel will be required to have a pass when using other WRC property.
Where can individuals interested in buying the pass learn about hunting seasons and other regulations specific to the Game Land or access area they are interested in visiting?
Visit our Hunting, Trapping and Fishing Regulations page, Boating Access Areas Regulations page, and Game Lands Program page for more information.
Will NCWRC offer new amenities or infrastructure as a result of the access pass?
NCWRC offers minimally developed wild spaces for the enjoyment of wildlife and natural habitat.
Is the access pass good for a year?
Just like other NCWRC activity licenses, the access pass would be good for a year from the date of purchase.
Who should attend these public meetings?
Anyone who uses NCWRC property.
Is this for all NCWRC owned and managed properties?
Potentially, but our intent is to avoid double charging customers.
If I have a hunting, fishing or trapping license, do I need this pass?
No, your valid hunting/fishing/trapping license includes access to and use of NCWRC property.
If I buy a Game Land License to go horseback riding on game lands will I need a Conservation Access Pass?
You would either need a Game Land License or Conservation Access Pass, not both.
Do kids need a Conservation Access Pass?
Individuals aged 16 and under would not be required to have their own access pass, but must be with an adult who has an access pass or valid license.