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Results of a survey of Hunting Access Program (HAP) hunters conducted following the 2012 fall and 2013 spring hunting seaons to determine the number of people hunting on HAP lands and to determine hunter satisfaction and opinions about the administration of HAP.

In the fall of 1988, a survey was developed to further evaluate the Michigan Hunting Access Program. This survey was a continuation of efforts by the MDNR Wildlife Division to monitor and evaluate HAP. This survey was developed to quantify hunting use of program lands, and to identify program areas in need of change. This report covers the results of that survey.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has long recognized the need to promote wildlife habitat management and hunting on private lands. The Michigan Hunting Access Program (HAP) provides opportunities for public hunting on privately-owned lands through an access lease arrangement between the private landowner and the DNR. The program began in 1977 with strong landowner participation but has dwindled to less than 8% of/he program's peak enrollment of about 189,000 acres. Unless changes to the program are implemented, it will likely disappear within a few years. This study was developed to quantify HAP incentives and disincentives to landowner participation and to identify program areas in need of restructuring or modification to ensure continued success. Recommendations are also made to stimulate interest and participation in the program.