With fall hunting seasons approaching, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) is reminding hunters with disabilities that special access roads in select national forests and state-owned wildlife management areas are open to Class Q permit holders.

“Hunting is a cherished tradition in West Virginia and the Class Q program makes that tradition more accessible to everyone,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “Through our partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, we’re proud to provide hunters with disabilities greater access to our public lands and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.”

The Class Q hunting program allows improved, extended vehicular access on certain limited-access gated roads in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests and the Monongahela National Forest, as well as certain limited-access gated roads on state WMAs. Access is limited to hunters with Class Q permits, which are available to individuals with permanent and irreversible respiratory, cardiovascular or lower extremity use limitations. For a list of Class Q access road sites, visit WVdnr.gov/hunting/class-q-hunting.

Rules for Using Class Q Access Roads

Hunters may hunt from a stationary vehicle with the engine turned off but may not park on public roads or highway rights-of-way.

• Hunters may be accompanied by one assistant at least 16 years old inside the vehicle. On national forest lands, an assistant is required. Assistants are not permitted to hunt.
• All hunting regulations apply. Class Q permit holders must carry the proper licenses, stamps and permits while hunting.
• ATVs and UTVs are not allowed on national forests or WMAs. Hunting with bait is prohibited on public lands.
• Additional rules apply on national forest lands through a Special Land Use Permit granted to the WVDNR by the U.S. Forest Service.
• Hunters with approved permits receive a wallet-sized card, which must be presented at the appropriate national forest or WVDNR district office to receive a letter of authorization and a gate key for designated roads.

To qualify, applicants must meet the requirements set in West Virginia Code Chapter 20 and have their application certified by a licensed physician. Applications and more information are available at all WVDNR offices or online at WVhunt.com.