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DWR Launches Explore the Wild: Your Ultimate Guide to Virginia’s Public Lands
Richmond, VA — The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is excited to unveil its latest innovation in outdoor recreation with the launch of Explore the Wild. This new web-based app, available on both DWR’s website and mobile app, is set to transform the way outdoor enthusiasts discover and explore the vast array of public lands in Virginia.
With over 1,000 wild places to explore, Explore the Wild is the ultimate online tool to find the best public lands in Virginia to hunt, fish, boat, paddle, view wildlife, hike, and go primitive camping. Additionally, anglers and hunters can narrow their search by species and sort the results by the best bets for the game animal they are looking to pursue.
“We are thrilled to be able to provide the public this easy-to-use resource and help them access the outdoors in Virginia,” said Ryan Brown, Executive Director of DWR. “Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting out, this user-friendly app is designed to provide the public with endless opportunities for outdoor exploration.”
Explore the Wild relies upon a robust database of public lands opportunities, amenities, and features and includes properties owned and/or managed by federal, state, county, or municipal governments that invite public access for a variety of outdoor recreation uses. “This resource would not have been possible without the cooperation of DWR’s staff and its partners,” said Max Goldman, DWR’s state-wide access coordinator and co-creator of the app.
Goldman, along with DWR Electronic Communications Coordinator, David Murr, have been working tirelessly over the past year to update the DWR website and create this easy-to-use portal for the public. And they have big plans for the future. “Keep checking back as Explore the Wild will be rolling out new features and adding more properties in the coming months,” said Murr.
Explore the Wild is committed to continuously improving its platform and welcomes user feedback to enhance the overall experience. For more information, visit dwr.virginia.gov/explore.