Resources
The Impact of Wildlife Restoration (WR) Funds on Wildlife Conservation and Public Access
2025 Apportionment for the
Wildlife Restoration Act (WR)
The Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937 and additional amendments created a federal manufacturers’ excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment. These funds are eligible to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies for various purposes, including public hunting access, hunter education, wildlife management and research, R3 (recruitment, retention, and reactivation) activities, and the development, operation, and maintenance of target ranges. This law is unique and essential for the conservation, management,
and enhancement of wildlife and their habitats, ensuring safe hunting access in the United States for current and future generations.
Restore Wildlife
WR funds have been a vital and consistent source of
funding used to support the restoration of wild turkeys.
Since 1973, wild turkey populations have grown by
over 5 million nationally. WR funded projects include
population assessments, disease management, habitat
restoration, and harvest evaluations.
Support Target Shooting Ranges
WR funds support the construction, operation, and
maintenance of over 800 public target ranges in the
United States. This represents a significant investment
in safe, structured environments where the public may
participate in all kinds of target shooting including
firearms and archery.
Conserve Public Lands
Nationally, over 36 million acres are operated and
maintained using WR funds. These Wildlife
Management Areas (WMA) and State Game Lands
provide areas of habitat protection and public access
for the opportunity to connect with nature, make
memories, and share outdoor experiences.
Educate the Public
The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP)
is one of the many programs focused on creating
opportunities for public participation in outdoor pursuits
The NASP program is an in-school program focused on
providing safe and informative archery education to
students in grades 4-12.