TPWD Announces Funding Opportunity for Streamside Landowners

Looks like the state has finally decided to utilize the U.S. Farm Bill and Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program Voluntary Public Access (VPA) and Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP) money to give us more river access on private stream fronts. Wish they would utilize the "Habitat Incentive Program" funds that are also available from the same federals funds to give us more access to private lands for hunting. I wonder why we don't see any use of HAP funds? Seems all this money is being used in Northern state to gain access to private lands.
LOs also benefits with $ grant for allowing access

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“Texas has over 40,000 miles of free-flowing rivers and creeks, and with 95% of the land held in private ownership, it can be a real challenge finding safe legal access to these waters.”

Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is looking to expand public access to fishing and paddling on Texas rivers through leased access agreements with streamside landowners. Private streamside properties are essential to achieving this goal, and TPWD is requesting applications from landowners for the River Access and Conservation Areas program.

more:
https://texasinsider.org/articles/tpwd-announces-funding-opportunity-for-streamside-landowners

https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/ks/newsroom/features/?cid=nrcs142p2_033556

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The River Access and Conservation Area (RACA) program aims to increase sustainable fishing and paddling access to rivers and streams
across private lands. This partnership between local landowners, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and cooperating organizations will
allow Texans to more fully enjoy the natural beauty that our rivers have to offer!

How Do I Know Whether My Property Is a Good Fit?
The purpose of this program is to increase opportunities for bank, wade, and kayak angling and
sustainable paddling activities. The program will focus on riverfront properties and segments of river
that may:
 Contain high quality river and shoreline habitats
 Present habitat restoration opportunities
 Offer unique paddling or sport fishing opportunities
 Have limited public access
 Are strategically positioned to expand a current Texas Padding Trail, connect to parks,
or provide connections to other public river access areas
What If My Property Needs Improvement?
TPWD can provide financial assistance for fencing, road base material, seed planting to ensure

How Does the Lease Payment Work?
TPWD and the landowner negotiate a term of lease and quarterly payment
amount. The landowner will set up a Texas Taxpayer ID to ensure efficient
payment.
Can I Still Regulate Use of My Property?
Yes! Terms will be set in the lease agreement regarding the types of
recreational opportunities available and special conditions for public use of
the property. In general, use is limited to angling and paddling activities.
How is Sustainability Maintained at These Sites?
TPWD will conduct scientific surveys at each site to monitor fish populations,
stream bank vegetation, and public use of the access point. Surveys will occur
at the beginning, midpoint, and renegotiation phases of a contract. Survey
data will be used to ensure that increased public use does not have a negative
impact on our natural resources.

https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/nonpwdpubs/media/raca_landowner_facts.pdf

Example:

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Grant Will Help Expand Public Hunting and Fishing Access Opportunities on South Dakota’s Private Lands
https://www.drgnews.com/grant-will-...tunities-on-south-dakotas-private-lands/

TPWD Announces Funding Opportunity for Streamside Landowners

TPWD Announces Funding Opportunity for Streamside Landowners - 06/13/20 07:33 PM

Re: TPWD Announces Funding Opportunity for Streamside Landowners - 06/13/20 07:37 PM