In 1981, hunters, anglers and wildlife enthusiasts became shareholders in an innovative investment and conservation program called the North Carolina Wildlife Endowment Fund.
The endowment fund for wildlife was a simple yet revolutionary idea: Create a lifetime inland fishing or hunting license. Put the license fees into a special fund. Spend the accrued interest, not the principal, on programs and projects that benefit fish and wildlife.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has spent more than $49 million in interest on programs and projects since the endowment fund’s inception.
Here’s how it works
There are several types of lifetime licenses that may be purchased. The lifetime sportsman and lifetime comprehensive hunting licenses include the state waterfowl privilege. The lifetime comprehensive hunting and lifetime comprehensive inland fishing licenses are sold only to residents of North Carolina. Nonresidents may purchase the nonresident sportsman’s license. There are no residency restrictions when purchasing the infant and youth licenses. You may also give a lifetime license as a gift. Simply complete the donor information on the application and the license will be mailed directly to you. All lifetime licenses are good for life. Even if you move out of North Carolina, you may use the license anytime you return to the state.
Personalize Your Lifetime License - When purchasing a license, it may be personalized for an additional $5.00. There are up to six spaces for a special number or name. For example, you may use a birth date (062855), (JU2855), initials (C.R.R.), or a nickname (Jack). You also have twenty-one spaces for a personal message. For example, Happy First Birthday, Love Mom and Dad or Enjoy the Outdoors.
Lifetime licenses can be purchased at your local wildlife service agent, online at www.ncwildlife.org, by calling (1) 888-248-6834, or by mail from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
Make a Tax-Deductible Contribution
Contributions to the Wildlife Endowment Fund are tax deductible. You may make a contribution directly to the fund or make it as a bequest from a will by giving as a memorial gift to honor the deceased or the fund could be a beneficiary of a life insurance policy. When making a memorial contribution, include the name and address of the person(s) making the donation as well as to whom the donation is in memory of. A card will be sent to the donor of the contribution. To contribute, complete the contribution form or send a check or money order made payable to NCWRC to Wildlife Endowment Fund, 1710 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1710.