Habitat
Habitat
Healthy habitat is the foundation of thriving wildlife populations. Through land protection,
restoration, and public access programs, conservation organizations work to improve
ecosystems for upland birds, pollinators, and other wildlife—while also creating
opportunities for outdoor recreation.
This page explains the key land types and programs that support habitat conservation
and public access.
Protected & Accessed
Different land types support conservation in different ways—working together to protect
wildlife, improve habitat, and maintain public access.
What Is a Wildlife Management Area?
- Publicly owned land managed to restore and maintain habitat
- Supports a wide range of species through habitat management
- Open to public for hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and recreation
- Habitat work may include native plantings, wetland restoration, and prescribed burns
What Is a Wildlife Protection Area ?
- Land protected primarily for wildlife conservation and habitat preservation
- Focuses on safeguarding sensitive or critical ecosystems
- Limited or seasonal public access to reduce disturbance
- Managed with long-term wildlife protection as the top priority
What is considered a Walk-In Area?
- Privately owned land enrolled in public access programs
- Provides walk-in hunting access only; no motorized access
- Supported through partnerships with landowners and conservation groups
- Improves habitat while respecting private land ownership
Built & Restored
Wildlife habitat is built by first protecting important land through conservation and preservation. Once secured, native grasses, wetlands, and pollinator plants are restored to improve habitat quality and biodiversity.
Ongoing management and maintenance ensure these areas remain healthy and continue supporting wildlife for generations.
1250 +
Acres Acquired & Restored
2,200+
Acres Restored in Partnership with Outdoor Heritage Fund
40+
Active Volunteers
$11 Million
Raised for Habitat Projects