ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Want to use state game lands but don’t have a hunting, fishing or trapping license?

A plan being floated by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission would create a Conservation Access Pass that would allow individuals to access and use NCWRC property without those licenses.

The pass would grant those without a valid hunting, fishing and/or trapping license access to:

  • More than 2 million acres of game lands
  • Five NCWRC-owned and managed shooting ranges
  • More than 250 Boating Access areas to more than 100 bodies of water for non-registered vessel owners

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.

Individuals participating under a Commercial or Event Use Permit will not need a Conservation Access Pass while participating in the permitted activity.

No pass will be required to use a BAA. However, unless otherwise licensed, individuals with a registered vessel will be required to have a pass when using other WRC property.

Just like other NCWRC activity licenses, the access pass would be good for a year from the date of purchase.

Officials said the pass is for all NCWRC-owned and managed properties, but the intent is to avoid double charging users.

Individuals 16 and younger would not be required to have an access pass, but they must be with an adult who has an access pass or valid license.

Gathering information

Before beginning the implementation process for a Conservation Access Pass, the commission plans to gather information on public attitudes, opinions and concerns.

The NCWRC will host three regional forums and one virtual forum 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 feedback about what is being considered

Mountain Region

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Ferguson Auditorium, Fernihurst Drive, Asheville, NC 28801
7-9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20

Eastern Region

Pitt Community College, 169 Bulldog Run, Winterville, NC 28590
7-9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25

Central Region

Guilford Technical Community College, 3505 E. Wendover Avenue, Greensboro, NC; Room 152 AB Combined
7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26

Virtual

Virtual Webinar via Zoom: Register to Attend.
6-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 4

For more information, click here.