Madison Reporter

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting applications for the Hunter Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation (R3) Grant Program. This initiative aims to support projects that enhance awareness, understanding, and participation in safe and ethical hunting practices.

According to the DNR, these skills provide individuals with a unique connection to nature and wildlife while fostering confidence in wild environments. Previous grant recipients have used funds for various projects including archery range upgrades for urban after-school clubs, startup costs for scholastic clay target teams and 4-H shooting sports programs, as well as support for expos aimed at recruiting new or underserved audiences. Additionally, grants have funded Learn to Hunt programs and the purchase of outdoor wheelchairs and other equipment for public use.

A total of $75,000 is available through this grant program. Individual awards are typically capped at $25,000. Eligible applicants include individuals or community-based organizations, Wisconsin tribes, universities, and schools.

This grant is a sub-award of federal Pittman-Robertson Act funds and operates as a reimbursement program. The deadline for application submissions is 11:59 p.m. on September 15, 2025. Projects should be planned to start approximately one year from the application deadline.

Further information and application details can be found on the DNR’s Hunter R3 Grant Program webpage.