The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) conducts a variety of surveys every year to engage with constituents on important topics related to hunting, trapping, and fishing. Harvest and effort information is critical for effective population management.
Some surveys collect information on harvest and effort from hunters, anglers, and trappers, while other surveys also collect information regarding human dimensions. Human dimensions research involves understanding how humans interact with their environment, as well as their preferences, attitudes, opinions, and behaviors towards natural resources management. It is important that we understand and integrate both the biological and social information, as it’s used to guide DWR’s management decisions and provides long-term trend data used for monitoring fish and wildlife populations. Participation in these surveys ensures that we have the data necessary to manage Virginia’s wildlife and inland fish to serve the needs of the Commonwealth.
If you have received an invitation to participate in a survey, please respond either by mail, email, or a link listed below. Some online surveys may require a login ID to access the survey, which will be found in your invitation.
Active Surveys
Virginia Angler Survey
- A random sample of licensed freshwater anglers are invited by email to take an online survey
- If invited, please complete the online survey prior to the closing date.
- Results will be posted when available.
- Questions? Contact surveys@dwr.virginia.gov
Bowhunter Observation Survey
- All bowhunters are invited to record their observations while hunting during the 2026 early archery deer season
- Want to learn more about the project and get started?
- Want to learn about past results?
- Questions? Contact justin.folks@dwr.virginia.gov
2026–2027 Bear Season Hunter Observation Survey
- All bear hunters are invited to record their observations during the 2026–2027 bear season
- Fill out this form and email it to carl.tugend@dwr.virginia.gov when complete
- Learn more about this project and additional bear hunter opportunities
For information or questions about any of our surveys, please contact surveys@dwr.virginia.gov.