Effective January 1, 2012, a Georgia Outdoor Recreational Pass (GORP) is required to use 32 properties managed by Wildlife Resources Division. (In all, Wildlife Resources manages more than 100 properties. GORP affects only one-third of the wildlife areas statewide.)
Who needs a GORP?
Thirty-two sites (listed below) require a GORP for visitors ages 16-64.
Who does not need a GORP?
- Youth ages 15 and under.
- Adults 65 and older.
- Individuals who have a valid WMA License, Honorary License, Sportsmen’s License, Lifetime License or Three-Day Hunting and Fishing License.
The
32 affected properties are Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and Public Fishing Areas (PFAs). Each is managed for wildlife/fish habitat and development and funded mostly by revenue from hunting and fishing licenses. Other uses, such as hiking, cycling, caving, bird watching and many other such activities, are also allowed.
Why is a GORP needed?
The new access pass provides for users including hikers, birders, cyclists and horse-riders to help cover maintenance at designated WMAs, PFAs and Natural Areas. That work has been funded mostly by hunters and anglers.
“As budgets have become tighter over the last few years, maintenance funds have been stretched thin,” says Dan Forster, director, Wildlife Resources Division. “Hunters and anglers have been paying the bill through state license fees and federal excise taxes to maintain these properties. However, other users contribute to the general wear and tear of the sites, too. The GORP revenue will be directed to long overdue maintenance projects such as roadways, trails, parking lots and other facilities.”
To see how GORP dollars are being spent,
CLICK HERE .
Where can I buy a GORP?
CLICK HERE to purchase. You can also call 1-800-366-2661 or visit a
license retail agent . Please note, that similar to other recreational licenses, a transaction fee is applicable ($2.50 for online, $3 for license vendor and $5 by phone).
How much is a GORP license?
- Individual 3-Day: $3.50*
- Individual Annual: $19
- Small Group,* 3-Day: $10**
- Small Group,Annual: $35**
Transaction fees apply ($2.50 online, $3 at retail outlets, $5 over the phone).
BUY NOW!
* Options available at purchase
** Small Group Pass
- The Small Group Pass allows the purchaser to take up to 8 people, including self, to a property.
- The Small Group pass is nontransferable.
- The purchaser must keep the pass on his/her person.
- Rangers will ask individuals for their licenses. To show compliance, the group should stay in the same general area as the pass holder; OR the purchaser should provide the license number printed on the GORP pass to each member of his party. It is also advised to carry photo identification.
- TIP: When you purchase your GORP online, a PDF of the license is produced. You can save this PDF and print it as needed.
- The Small Group pass is not intended for commercial outfiitters/guides, educational groups or nonprofit groups. These groups should contact their Regional Game Management office to arrange for a Right of Entry agreement.
