Category Archives: Conservation

Black bear hunting season opens Tuesday

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Can you believe it? Fall bear hunting season is opening already. Gosh, where does the time go. The first bear hunting season runs from Sept. 3 to Sept. 21, the second season from Nov. 4 to Nov. 23 and the Shotgun season runs from Dec. 2 to Dec. 14 (concurrent with the shotgun deer hunting season). Hunting is prohibited on Sundays.
The regulations are complicated, so here we go:
The Hunting hours begin ½ hour before sunrise and end ½ hour after sunset. (Except on WMAs stocked with pheasant or quail during the pheasant or quail season, hunting hours are sunrise to sunset.)
To hunt black bear in Massachusetts you must have the appropriate license and permit, which you can buy through MassFishHunt. Licenses required for Massachusetts residents are a hunting or sporting license and a bear permit. Non-residents need a big game license and a bear permit.
Bear hunters are allowed to take one bear per calendar year.
Hunting implements
Hunting implement First season Second season Shotgun season
Rifle* X X
Handgun* X
Muzzleloader* X X X
Archery X X X
Shotgun X

*Except on WMAs stocked with pheasant or quail during the pheasant or quail season.

The rifle caliber must be a.23 or larger. Handgun: .357 Magnum revolver with .357 Magnum cartridges only, or a revolver .40 caliber or larger. Muzzleloader: .44 to .775 caliber, fired from the shoulder, using a single projectile.

Archery Equipment: Bows must have a draw weight of at least 40lbs at 28 inches or at peak draw. Arrows must have a well sharpened steel broadhead blade not less than 7/8 inches in width. Expanding broadheads are legal. Poisoned arrows, explosive tips and bows drawn by mechanical means are prohibited. Crossbows may be used by certain permanently disabled persons by permit only.
Shotgun: Allowed only during the shotgun season, shotgun not larger than 10 gauge, including shotguns with a rifled bore, slugs only.
Hunter orange requirements
• First Season: None
• Second Season: A hunter orange hat is required on WMAs stocked with pheasant or quail during the pheasant or quail season.
• Shotgun Season: You must wear 500 square inches of hunter orange on your head, chest, and back.
It is illegal to use bait and dogs.
Special rules on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) stocked with pheasant or quail during the pheasant or quail season
• Hunting hours are sunrise to sunset
• Hunter orange hat is required
• Other rules apply – check the WMA regulations

Upon killing a bear, hunters must immediately fill out and attach to the carcass the “harvest tag” found on the bear permit. The bear must remain intact (other than field dressing), with the harvest tag attached, until it is reported and prepared for food or taxidermy.
Hunters must report their bear either online or at a check station within 48 hours of harvest. If reporting online, a confirmation number will be issued and must be written on the harvest tag, if reporting at a check station a metal seal will be attached to the carcass. Either the seal or the harvest tag must be attached to the bear until it is processed. When transporting the bear, some portion of the carcass must remain visible until it has been reported.
The statewide population of bears is estimated to be over 4,500 animals and is growing, so the hunters’ odds are pretty good at getting one.
Gray squirrel hunting season
Thursday, September 9 marks the opening of the Gray Squirrel hunting season in Zones 1 through 9. (Yes, there are quite a few local squirrel hunters who relish a good squirrel and dumplings meal). Rather than confuse the hunters with another set of hunting regulations, I refer you to the MassWildlife web page https://www.mass.gov/service-details/gray-squirrel-hunting-regulations. There you will find squirrel hunting regulations such as Hunting Hours, Required License, bag limits, type of hunting implements, hunter orange requirement, and more.
Non-resident hunters, take note
There are non-resident readers of this column from NY and elsewhere who are interested in hunting in Massachusetts but are a little confused about our hunting regulations. The following information comes from the 2019 Freshwater Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Laws. Non-Resident Hunters:
• Must have a valid Massachusetts non-resident hunting license in order to hunt.
• Must have successfully completed a Basic Hunter Education course or held a hunting license anywhere in North America prior to 2007 in order to purchase a Massachusetts hunting license. Non-resident adults and minors (ages 15–17) purchase the same class license, H5 or H6 (see below for explanations).
H5 – Non-resident (adult/minor) Hunting, Big Game (Deer, Bear, Turkey, and all other game species) $99.50.
H6 – Non-resident (adult/minor) Hunting, Small Game (All game species except deer, bear, and turkey) $65.50.
• Must obtain the same stamps and permits as residents which are the same for residents and non-residents. Non-resident migratory game bird hunters must complete a Massachusetts H.I.P. survey to hunt.
• May not purchase ammunition in Massachusetts (including materials used in black powder firearms).
• Must have their firearms unloaded and enclosed in a case while travelling into or through Massachusetts.
• No gun license (FID) is needed to possess or transport long guns.
• Should contact the Massachusetts Criminal History Systems Board (CHSB) Firearms Support Services, 200 Arlington St., Suite 2200, Chelsea, MA 02150, tel. (617) 660-4780 for information on handgun permits.
Culvert Replacements
The Baker-Polito Administration recently awarded $932,000 to support 16 statewide culvert replacement projects that improve municipal infrastructure, river health and resilience to climate change.
Grants of interest to local environmentalists and outdoor sportspersons are as follows:

Chester (Trout Unlimited), $30,000 – Trout Unlimited, the Town of Chester and other project partners will use the grant funds to construct a structure that meets improved stream crossing and engineering design standards. Replacing this undersized and failing culvert on Kinne Brook Road with larger, safer structures will allow full upstream and downstream movement of aquatic species, including native eastern brook trout, and reduce the risk of road damage and failure in flood conditions.
Clarksburg, $41,000 – The Town of Clarksburg will conduct field data collection and analysis, design and engineering, and permitting for a culvert replacement on Bear Swamp Brook. Upgrading the culvert allows coldwater species to access to critical coldwater streams, particularly important as the climate warms and stream temperature increases. The road also serves a primary emergency access route.
Cummington, $80,000 – The Town of Cummington will complete design and engineering tasks for the culvert replacement on the North Branch of the Swift River. Upgrading the culvert will enhance public safety, resiliency, and ecological conditions and maintain economic connectivity. The North Branch Swift River is a tributary to the Wild & Scenic Westfield River, a coldwater stream that provides critical habitat for state-listed fish only found in Massachusetts in the upper tributaries of the Westfield River.
Sheffield, $54,000 – The Town of Sheffield will conduct final engineering and design and permitting for a culvert replacement on Dry Brook. The current structure results in frequent roadway flooding and repair costs. Upgrading this culvert will improve Sheffield’s infrastructure and storm resilience, reduce maintenance costs, and improve passage for fish and wildlife, including the federally listed bog turtle.
Culverts are a critical yet hidden part of our infrastructure, yet so many are in disrepair,” said State Senator Adam Hinds (D-Pittsfield). “This funding will go a long way towards our continued work with local officials to address their needs.”
“I am grateful to Secretary Theoharides for making this announcement in Windsor and for recognizing the importance of partnership between the state and our small, rural communities,” said State Representative Paul Mark (D-Peru). “Rural towns often face tough situations and tough choices when it comes to budgeting. Every state investment we are able to help secure goes such a long way towards sustainability and the long-term health of our region. This grant will be put to good use and will help improve our environment for natural habitat and nature lovers.”

What are MassWildlife’s Habitat Programs?

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Habitat Programs conserve rare and declining wildlife through restoration and management of grassland, shrubland, and young forest habitats.
MassWildlife’s Habitat Programs works to conserve a variety of wildlife and plants including rare and declining wildlife species identified in the State Wildlife Action Plan, as well as game animals and more common species. In many cases, this happens through restoration and management of grassland, shrubland, and young forest habitats on public and private lands across Massachusetts.
Using information from scientific literature, from biological monitoring, and from private conservation organizations, their Biologists and Foresters set statewide habitat goals for MassWildlife lands. These habitat goals were set to provide high quality habitat for both game and non-game species, and include the establishment of forest reserves.
Many types of wildlife rely on grassland, shrubland, and young forest habitats – all of which are declining in Massachusetts. MassWildlife’s Habitat Programs work to expand these habitat types on state wildlife lands. These lands include Wildlife Management Areas, Wildlife Conservation Easements, and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
MassWildlife management goals for grassland, shrubland, and young forest habitats.

Why is habitat management needed?
Human infrastructure and development have substantially restricted certain natural disturbance processes that historically provided diverse open habitats for wildlife. In particular, flooding and fire are greatly constrained across the landscape today. While control of flooding and fire is essential to protect human life and property, it also creates an obligation on MassWildlife’s part to provide the dynamic habitats for wildlife that these natural processes formerly did. Habitat management is sometimes needed to create, restore, and maintain a variety of habitat types including grasslands.
History of the Massachusetts landscape
Open habitats (grasslands, shrublands and young forest) were part of the New England landscape for centuries prior to European colonization due to:
1. ubiquitous beaver activity
2. spring flooding and ice scouring along rivers and major streams
3. wildfires and fires set by Native Americans in coastal areas and major river valleys
4. occasional catastrophic windstorms

These open habitats started to decline after European colonization due to:
1. extirpation of beaver from Massachusetts
2. extensive development of roads and buildings in portions of the landscape that formerly supported abundant beaver activity
3. flood control
4. fire suppression (especially in portions of the landscape that supported fire-associated natural communities like pitch pine/scrub oak).
Human activity has also reduced the impact of wind storms across the landscape. Today’s forests are relatively young (75 to 90 year old) compared to the old growth that once existed, which means that trees are more pliant and resistant to wind disturbance than original old growth forests. Forests are also fragmented by development in many portions of the landscape, which means that when wind disturbance does occur on forested lands, it is typically interrupted by adjacent development.
MassWildlife uses active management to provide a range of grassland, shrubland, and young forest habitats that are no longer created frequently enough by natural processes. Forestry practices, along with mowing, prescribed burning, and invasive plant control are often used to manage sites.

Wildlife in decline
Many kinds of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and plants thrive in or near open habitat types. The continuing decline of open grasslands, shrublands, and young forests has impacted a number of wildlife and plant species.
Native grassland and shrubland birds are declining at an alarming rate. Even some forest nesting birds are declining, despite the fact that Massachusetts has more forestland now (nearly 3 million acres) than at any time in the past 300 years. This is because some forest birds (e.g., chestnut-sided warbler) are specialized to nest in young forest, and because other forest birds (e.g., wood thrush) nest in mature forest but then move their young into shrubland and young forest habitats after fledging to utilize abundant food and cover found in these areas.
Reports from the yearly North American Breeding Bird Survey, Massachusetts Audubon Society’s 2013 State of the Birds report, and other published scientific articles, show that species including Eastern Towhee, Field Sparrow, and the Brown Thrasher are all showing alarming declines. Populations of Upland Sandpiper, Vesper Sparrow, and Grasshopper Sparrow (all classified as either Threatened or Endangered in Massachusetts) are also declining. It is clear that without the maintenance and creation of open habitat, birds that require this type of habitat will continue to decline.
Other animals and plants that rely on open habitats are in decline. The New England Cottontail, Massachusetts’ only native cottontail (not to be confused with the Eastern Cottontail, which was introduced to the state in the early 1900s), was once common throughout all of the New England states; now it occurs only sporadically. The Regal Fritillary Butterfly, once common, no longer occurs in the state. Black Racer Snakes and Eastern Box Turtle rely on open habitats for various stages of their life cycle. In addition, many field and grassland plants including New England Blazing Star (a state Special Concern Species), Sandplain Gerardia (a state Endangered Species), and Eastern Silvery Aster (a state Endangered Species) are becoming increasingly rare.
MassWildlife uses active management to provide a range of grassland, shrubland, and forested habitats that are no longer provided frequently enough by natural disturbance processes to help support both common and declining species. Forestry practices, along with mowing, prescribed burning, and invasive plant control are used to manage sites.
Here in the Berkshires, MassWildlife has implemented successful management plans in several areas such as the Stafford Hill Wildlife Management Area in Cheshire and the Moran WMA in Windsor to name a couple. I believe a prescribed burn was scheduled sometime this year in Sheffield.
If you are of my generation, you may remember many of our local farms going out of business and their grasslands becoming overgrown with shrubs, wild blackberries, black caps, raspberries, blueberries, grapes and other vegetation that the birds and critters liked to eat. The abandoned orchards were especially good places for deer, rabbit and partridge hunting. MassWildlife does not have to work hard to convince us of the value of its habitat programs. We grew up in those places and saw the wildlife first hand……before the housing developments.
Go to the Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan for more information.

The Quabbin Controlled Deer Hunt
The Quabbin Controlled Deer Hunt is an annual event conducted on Quabbin Reservoir watershed lands, implemented as part of the management program to maintain a balance between deer herd densities and forest regeneration. Participants are selected from an applicant pool in a special lottery in early September. The application must be filled out on line and submitted from the DCR Deer Hunt web page between July 1 and August 31. Hunters can get assistance completing the online application at the Quabbin Visitor Center on Saturdays (9 a.m. to noon) and Wednesdays (noon to 3 p.m.) during the application period.
Following input from the public, Quabbin Park has been added to the White-tailed Deer Management Program at Quabbin in 2019. The application is available from August 1 to August 31.
Once selected, all successful applicants will receive written notification by early to mid-October. If you have any questions or concerns, contact https://www.mass.gov/service-details/quabbin-reservation-deer-hunt:
Bird Language

Next Tuesday at J Allen’s Clubhouse,41 North Street, Pittsfield, the Pittsfield Green Drinks will be having Kevin Bose as its guest speaker to talk about bird language. Starting at 5:15 PM they will chat and nosh, and at 6 PM Kevin will give a 30-minute talk.

All animals (and once all humans), listen with great awareness to the vocalizations of the birds. When we practice tuning our awareness to bird language, we can learn about so many unseen things happening on the landscape – such as where the fox, weasel, and cooper’s hawk are. Through this practice we can come to a deeper understanding of ecological interconnections, as well as make us better listeners throughout our lives.

Kevin Bose has mentored children and adults of all ages in nature and permaculture for over a decade. In a year-long program that combined these two things (called RDNA) he was mentored by Jon Young (author of What the Robin Knows), in bird language as a core routine for Nature Connection.

So, who/what is Green Drinks? Sponsored by the Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT), it is a group of people who meet the 3rd Tuesday of every month, .and usually have a guest speaker. It is billed as great way of catching up with people you know and for making new contacts. The drinks aren’t green but the conversations are. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to bring your questions! It is free and open to the public.

 

Good Things Happening with the Williams River and its watershed

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Recently, the MA Department of Fish and Game and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFG/DFW) Land ·Protection Program was awarded $13,447 in “In Lieu Fee Program” funds for the fee interest acquisition of a 49-acre property, located off Moscow Road in West Stockbridge. This property is adjacent to the DFW Maple Hill Wildlife Management Area and includes approximately 5,000 feet of frontage on the Williams River and 3.8 acres of freshwater wetlands. The property was under threat of development, with 500 feet of frontage on Moscow Road and potential for residential housing lots.
The Williams River, which is a major tributary of the Housatonic River, is an identified Coldwater Fisheries Resource. Wetlands on-site are identified as State BioMap2 Wetlands Core habitat. The Williams River preservation parcel is of significance for connectivity, ecological integrity, and climate change resiliency; it is identified as (1) BioMap2 Critical Natural Landscape Upland Wetland Buffer, (2) a DEP Important Habitat), and (3) a TNC resilient site. (See explanations below)
Acquisition and management of this parcel by DFW ensures the preservation of these aquatic resources and about10 acres of upland buffer.
(1) BioMap2 is designed to guide strategic biodiversity conservation in Massachusetts by focusing land protection and stewardship on the areas that are most critical for ensuring the long-term persistence of rare and other native species and their habitats, exemplary natural communities, and a diversity of ecosystems across the Commonwealth. Critical Natural Landscape identifies larger landscape areas that are better able to support ecological processes, disturbances, and wide-ranging species.
(2) Developed by UMass, the Massachusetts Ecological Integrity Maps (IEI) are based on a computer software program and a method to prioritize land for conservation based on the assessment of ecological integrity for ecological communities (e.g., forest, shrub swamp, headwater stream). Using the IEI values, the MassDEP maps habitat of potential regional or statewide Importance (MassDEP Important Habitats). They depict areas representing 40% of the landscape with the highest wildlife habitat value.
(3) The Nature Conservancy’s Resilient Sites for Terrestrial Conservation project identifies the areas estimated to be the most climate resilient for each of 62 characteristic environments in Eastern North America.
But wait, there’s more!
The Masiero family of West Stockbridge recently conserved about 25 acres of land bordering the Williams River across from the old West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club. According to a Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) news release, the Masieros approached them over the winter and asked about conservation options for their beloved family land. Together they walked the scenic and unspoiled property on the banks of the Williams River–a clear conservation gem. Furthermore, generously, the Masieros were open to the idea of public access to this beautiful place for fishing.
They discussed conservation options, including the option of working with MassWildlife, owners of the Williams River Wildlife Management Area which is directly across from the Masiero land. (That WMA consists of 35 acres of land purchased in 2010 behind the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s club that contains nice wildlife habitat and a section of the Williams River which provides excellent trout fishing). The Masieros decided it made sense to work with MassWildlife, so BNRC connected them, and are now “thrilled” to announce the land is conserved, with public access to the river.
Incidentally, John Masiero was one of the founders and directors of the Friends of the Williams River (FWR) an environmental organization which focused on the Williams River and its watershed. It leaned hard on George “Gige”Darey, Chairman of the Fish & Wildlife Board and the DFW back in the 1990’s to acquire land which ultimately became known as the Maple Hill Wildlife Management Area. Additional acreage was subsequently added to it in 2013.
During the same time, the FWR also urged fellow Board Member George Naventi to sell some of his property on Moscow Road to the DFW in order to preserve it. Unfortunately, the FWR became defunct before that could happen. It is so nice to see the previously mentioned. 49 acre “In Lieu Fee Program” purchase come about.
Never heard of the Friends of Williams River? Well, my good friend John Masiero and I were on that Board and we should sit down and do a write-up about it for a future column or two.
Basic Hunter Education Courses
Hunter Education is mandatory for all first- time hunters. By state law, all first-time hunters (18 years of age or older) must successfully complete a Basic Hunter Education course before they may purchase a Massachusetts hunting or sporting license. Government issued “certificates of completion” from any jurisdiction are accepted.
Minors, 12 to 17 years of age, have separate rules to follow (https://www.mass.gov/service-details/hunting-regulations-for-minors). While minors are not mandated to complete Basic Hunter Education to hunt, it is one option for minors 15-17 years of age to purchase a hunting license. It is also a prerequisite for all minors 12-17 years of age to participate in some youth programs such as the Youth Turkey Hunt Program and the Young Adult Pheasant Hunt Program
All courses are free of charge and open to the public.
A 6-day Basic Hunter Education Course will be held at the Pittsfield High School, 300 East Street, Pittsfield. It will run Tuesdays and Thursdays on September 10, 12, 17, 19, 24 and 26 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm each night. To enroll call (508)389-7830.
Hunter Education graduates aged 12–17 can participate in the Young Adult Pheasant Hunt. This program involves shooting instruction and practice, a pre-hunt workshop, and a mentored hunt prior to the regular pheasant season. All young adults between the ages 15 and 17 will need a hunting license and FID card to participate in this program.
The Young Adult Pheasant Hunt takes place on Saturdays in September and October; specific dates vary and are determined by participating sportsman’s clubs. Applications must be received by August 27. For more information and to view participating clubs, click onto Young Adult Pheasant Hunt Program (https://www.mass.gov/service-details/young-adult-pheasant-hunt-program).
Incidentally, the Youth Deer Hunt day is Saturday, September 28. Youth Deer Hunt Day permits are available online, beginning August 1. With this permit, youths may take either an antlered or antlerless deer in any zone on the Youth Deer Hunt Day. Learn more about the Youth Deer Hunt Day by clicking onto. https://www.mass.gov/service-details/youth-deer-hunt-day
Antlerless Deer Permit instant award period began August 1
If you applied for an Antlerless Deer Permit by the July 16 deadline, you must now check back to find out if you have been awarded one. The award period began August 1 and ends on December 31. Your odds of being awarded a permit are the same regardless of when you check your permit status. You can check the status of your permit through MassFishHunt, or by visiting a MassWildlife office or license agent location. A $5 fee is charged only if you are awarded a permit. Good luck!
If you already know that you weren’t awarded an antlerless deer permit, you might want to consider applying for a surplus antlerless deer permit in zones 9, 10, 11, 13, and 14 until sold out. The surplus permits, which will be sold by Wildlife Management Zone will be staggered over the following days in September.
• Zone 11: Tuesday, September 24 at 9 a.m.
• Zone 10: Wednesday, September 25 at 9 a.m.
• Zones 9, 13 and 14: Thursday, September 26 at 9 a.m.

Surplus Permits are first-come, first-served. Surplus permits must be purchased within 15 minutes after being placed in your shopping cart. The MassFishHunt online licensing system only allows 1 session per customer, so do not log in on multiple devices or you may be kicked out of the system and need to start over.
You may purchase only one Zone 11 and one Zone 10 permit per day; up to four permits per day may be purchased for Zones 13 and 14.

New Turkey Hunting regulations to take effect in 2020

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The Fisheries and Wildlife Board recently voted to approve changes to turkey hunting regulations affecting bag limits, fall season dates, shot size, and the Youth Hunt. These regulation changes will take effect with the 2020 season. There are no changes to the 2019 fall turkey hunting season.
The summary below provides an overview of the changes.
Increase the annual limit to three birds (2 bearded turkeys in the spring and 1 of either sex in the fall). Currently, hunters may harvest either two bearded birds in the spring with no fall birds or one bearded bird in the spring and one bird of either sex in the fall, for an annual limit of two birds. The change allows all hunters to take two bearded birds in the spring and an additional turkey of either sex in the fall, increasing the annual bag limit to three birds.
Increase the daily bag limit to two per day during the spring season. Currently, turkey hunters may harvest one turkey per day during the spring season. Increasing the daily bag limit to two allows hunters to take their spring season limit in a more efficient manner.
Expand the fall season (ARCHERY ONLY) to coincide with the archery deer season. Currently, the fall turkey hunting season begins the second to last Monday in October and ends the second Saturday thereafter, during which hunters may use a shotgun, muzzleloader, or archery equipment. This change allows turkey hunters to harvest turkeys with archery equipment during the entire duration of the archery deer season (6–8 weeks depending on zone). Turkey hunters would continue to be permitted to use shotgun, muzzleloader, or archery equipment during the traditional 2-week season from the second to last Monday in October through the second Saturday thereafter.
Allow no larger than #4 shot size. Currently, turkey hunters may only use #4–#7 size shot for turkey hunting. The change removes the minimum shot size restriction. Due to advancements in ammunition technology, there are now shotshells available that are made of lead alternatives like tungsten which are denser than lead. These alternatives can utilize small shot sizes (#7 or #9) while still maintaining lethal ballistics down range to effectively and humanely harvest a wild turkey at common hunting ranges. These types of ammunition allow hunters greater flexibility when choosing ammunition/shotgun combinations for turkey hunting, including the use of smaller gauge shotguns that may be easier or more convenient for hunters to carry and shoot.
Expand Youth Day turkey hunting hours to ½ hour before sunrise until 5 p.m. The Youth Turkey Hunt Day occurs on only a single day the Saturday before the last Monday in April; approximately 250–285 young adults ages 12–17 participate each spring. This change provides young hunters the opportunity to hunt on a special day before the start of the regular spring hunting season. The expansion of the hunting hours will greatly increase the total time available for hunting.
Allow Youth Turkey permits issued to youth aged 12–14 for use in the fall turkey hunting seasons. At this time, youth 12–14 years old who successfully complete the mandatory training program for the Youth Day are issued a free Youth Turkey Permit with two turkey tags and must always hunt with a licensed adult mentor hunter. These tags are currently only valid on the Youth Day and the remainder of the regular spring turkey hunting season. When hunting turkeys in the fall, these young hunters must currently use their accompanying mentor’s turkey tags and license. Because young adults who complete the mandatory training workshop for the Youth Day demonstrate significant initiative to earn the Youth Turkey Permit and must always hunt with a mentor, it is unnecessary to restrict the use of their tags to the spring season only.

This change provides additional opportunity for young hunters with the Youth Turkey Permit to use their own tag during the fall season by providing them with 2 spring tags and 1 fall tag. (Note: Under current regulations, youth aged 15–17 are required to have their own hunting license and turkey permit, which allows them to hunt in the spring or fall seasons.)

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The Quabbin Controlled Deer Hunt
The Quabbin Controlled Deer Hunt is an annual event conducted on Quabbin Reservoir watershed lands, implemented as part of the management program to maintain a balance between deer herd densities and forest regeneration. Participants are selected from an applicant pool in a special lottery in early September. Since 2016, all applications must be submitted online; the application must be filled out and submitted from the DCR Deer Hunt web page between July 1 and August 31. Hunters can get assistance completing the online application at the Quabbin Visitor Center on Saturdays (9 a.m. to noon) and Wednesdays (noon to 3 p.m.) during the application period.
Once selected, all successful applicants will receive written notification by early October.
Organization of the Hunt
During 2019, hunting will occur at Petersham between Gates 38 and 40. This area will have one, two-day segment, December 12 and 13.
Access will be restricted to designated gates. Hunters must check in and out by posted times on each day they hunt and obey all regulations and directions of DCR and law enforcement personnel.
Hunters will be assigned to a specific access zone where they must check in and out each day. There will be a limited number of Antlerless Deer Permits available to participating hunters, so unlike in past years, not all hunters are able to purchase an Antlerless Permit.
Since 2007, hunters have been able to use muzzleloaders for the Quabbin Deer Hunt. However, all hunters must possess a valid FID Card in order to participate in the hunt.
The hunt may be cancelled due to severe weather conditions or security situations.
Application Process
The application must be filled out and submitted online through the DCR Deer Hunt web page. There is no application fee. To minimize vehicular traffic and increase efficiency, hunters may apply in groups of up to six with a MINIMUM of two. Hunters may only apply on one application. There are several required fields on the application which must be completed before it can successfully be submitted, including a valid email address for Hunter #1. This hunter will receive an email message confirming successful submission of the application.
Once selected, hunters will be assigned to a specific access zone where they must check in and out each day.
This is the application for the Petersham hunt only. There are plans to hunt other areas of Quabbin in 2019. Details will be posted on the web page when available.
Hunter Selection Process
The drawing to select hunters will be based on the last digits of your MassWildlife Customer ID Number. All eligible Customer ID numbers listed on the application will be included in the lottery.
Selected hunters will be required to complete an orientation session prior to the 2019 Quabbin deer hunt except for those who completed an orientation session in 2018, 2017, or 2016. DCR has developed an online orientation session option for returning hunters who have not completed an orientation session in 2018, 2017, or 2016 but have attended an orientation session at some point in the past. New Quabbin hunters will still be required to attend an in-person orientation session.

For more information, go to https://www.mass.gov/service-details/wild-turkey-hunting-regulations

All about rivers program
On Wednesday, July 24 from 5:30 to 6:30pm the Housatonic Valley Association is having a free community program all about rivers. This is an opportunity to meet river critters, learn about our river ecosystem and our current river issues. You will be able to take home tips for protecting our rivers’ health. If interested, meet at the Stearns Elementary School parking area, 75 Lebanon Avenue, Pittsfield. Heavy rain or thunder cancels. Call 413-298-7024 for more information.

Robert Durand named to Fish and Wildlife Board

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Governor Charlie Baker has named Robert A. Durand, president of Durand & Anastas Environmental Strategies, an environmental consulting and lobbying firm, to the Massachusetts Fisheries and Wildlife Board. Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito conducted the swearing-in ceremony for the five-year term last Wednesday at the State House. Chairman of Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Smitty Pignatelli was one of about 10 Reps and Senators who attended the swearing in. Smitty said some nice words and reminded everyone of how close Bob was to the late George (Gige) Darey.
“I am so pleased and honored to receive this nomination to the board, which has been a part of my life in one way or another for most of my life,” Durand said. “I’m thankful to Gov. Baker and Lt. Gov. Polito for their confidence in me to carry out this vital mission to protect many critical aspects of our natural world, and with it, our quality of life in Massachusetts.”

As one of the seven-member board, Durand will represent the Northeast Region, Middlesex and Essex counties, and replaces Fred Winthrop, who resigned from the board last fall. The board has various duties, including writing and overseeing all hunting and fishing regulations, Natural Resources and Endangered Species Act regulations, and is the appointing authority for the director of MassWildlife.
I would bet that most Massachusetts outdoor sportsmen and conservationists are extremely happy with the Governor’s choice to appoint Durand. Why? Read on.
Durand has been an avid outdoorsman and conservationist his entire life, and in 2011 was recognized as such by the Board when it awarded him the Francis W. Sargent Conservation Award. Prior to forming Durand & Anastas Environmental Strategies, he served four terms as state representative for Berlin and Marlborough, where he lives. He followed that with four terms as a state senator for the Middlesex and Worcester District, during which he chaired the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee, and four years as Secretary of Environmental Affairs, under former governors the late Paul Cellucci and Jane Swift.
During his career as a public servant, Durand forged new bonds between the outdoor and sporting communities and environmentalists, bringing these advocates together to support initiatives that strengthened both. As a legislator, he wrote the Rivers Protection Act and the Community Preservation Act. As Secretary, he protected 150,000 acres of open space, including major bioreserves open to hunting and fishing, helped usher in the nation’s first state regulations on coal burning power plant emissions and oversaw a vigorous campaign to reduce mercury emissions that bioaccumulate in wildlife and people. He also created Biodiversity Days, an annual event that saw tens of thousands of school children from more than 500 schools fan out across the state to learn about and catalogue plant and animal species, and championed environmental justice and environmental education
Bob has served as the President of the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation and served on the Board of Trustees for both The Nature Conservancy/Massachusetts Chapter and the Massachusetts Environmental Trust.
He has received many wildlife and conservation related awards from various organizations, including Mahar Fish ‘N Game Club, Massachusetts Bowhunters Association, Essex and Middlesex County Leagues of Sportsmen, Massachusetts Wildlife Federation, Environmental League of Massachusetts, Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Massachusetts Audubon Society, Gun Owner’s Action League and the Nature Conservancy.
Durand is no stranger to the Berkshires. For many years he has come out here to hunt. Ron Smith taught him how to turkey hunt back in the day and Bob frequently hunted turkeys with Gige. He also hunted woodcock, grouse and whitetail with Phil Hiser, Gige and Ginny Akabani and did some carp fishing and trout fishing on the Housatonic with Jay Baver.
Trout stocking

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:

Rivers and brooks: Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida; Westfield River (East Branch) in Cummington and Chesterfield, Westfield River (Mainstem) in Huntington and Russell, Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, and Windsor Brook in Hinsdale.

Lakes and Ponds: Greenwater Pond in Becket, Littleville Reservoir in Chester and Huntington, Pontoosuc Lake, Laurel Lake, Garfield Lake in Monterey, Windsor Lake in North Adams, Onota Lake and Richmond Pond.

Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Spring Fishing Derby

Seventy anglers entered the SSC Spring Fishing Derby last Sunday, which ran from dawn until 3:00 pm at Stockbridge Bowl. For a change, it was rain free with the temperatures near 80 degrees. The results are as follows:

Adults

Largest Trout: Lee Soules, of Lenox, caught a trout that was 16 1/2” long and weighed 2-lbs, 2 oz.

Largest Bass: George Hess Jr. of Washington MA caught a 19 1/2” Bass that weighed 5 lbs. 11 oz.

Largest Pickerel: Travis Santolin of Lee caught a 23” Pickerel that weighed 2 lbs. 15 oz.

Largest Bullhead: James Trumps of South Lee caught a 12 1/2” Bullhead that weighed 1-lb 1 oz.

Age 12 and under Winners:

Largest Bass: Mason Chamberlain (age 6) of Lee caught a 12” Bass which weighed 13oz

Largest Trout: Trentonn Santolin (age 5) of Lee caught a 16 1/2” trout that weighed 2 lbs., 2 oz

Interestingly, for the first time ever they had a tie for the largest trout.

Annual Harry A Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby

The 27th annual Harry A. Bateman Memorial Jimmy Fund Fishing Derby will take place next Saturday at the Frank Controy Pavilion at Onota Lake in Pittsfield from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. No fishing license is required because it is Free Fishing Weekend for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The fishing derby is open to the public and its purpose is to raise money for the Jimmy Fund – Dana Farber Cancer Institute for Children. All of the proceeds will be donated to the Jimmy Fund in memory of Harry A. Bateman, a former member of Central Berkshire Bowman and I.U.E. Local 255 who was well known throughout Berkshire County and who became a victim of cancer in 1992.

Fifteen trophies and prizes will be awarded to the winners of the fishing derby, eight trophies for the Children, four trophies for Adults and three trophies that can be won by adults or children. There is even a special category for those fishing with a bow and arrow. All fish must be weighed in by 12:00 noon and must be caught at Onota Lake from a boat or the shore. Don’t be late! The scales will be removed immediately after 12:00 noon.

Fishing tackle is given with the trophy prizes with two prizes for heaviest trout. A sportsman award will be given out to a child which includes a tackle box with over $100 of tackle. The entrance fee is $10 for adults and $5 for Children 14 years and younger. The fee includes food and beverages. All children receive a free gift and a children 5-14 years old will have a chance at winning a mountain bike.

Food tickets will be given for hamburgers, hot dogs and sausages. No alcohol is served at this event. Advanced tickets may be purchased at Avid Sports, Dave’s Sporting Goods, and Onota Boat Livery. Everyone needs to register before fish can be weighed in. Individuals must be wearing wrist bands provided at the registration desk in order to receive food and to weigh in the fish.

Remembering Thomas King

Thomas Michael King passed away on May 16 at the age of 72. He had been a director of the Berkshire Beagle Club, a longtime member of the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club, the Adams Outdoor for Youth and the Night Stalkers Bass Club He was the Beagle Club’s delegate to the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) and was the 2009 recipient of its Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award. He was also a volunteer for the Mass Anglers Education Program.

He was an avid volunteer for the annual turkey shoots, work bees, pheasant and rabbit stocking programs, annual youth fishing events and game dinners. He was always performing Beagle Club tasks such as repairing fences, trimming brush and building boxes. Tom was an avid, ethical sportsman whose goal was always to promote youth interest in hunting and fishing sports. He will be missed.

Memorial Day Weekend

Here’s hoping you have an enjoyable holiday weekend. Whether you are spending it with your friends and loved ones barbecuing burgers and dogs, watching a downtown parade, decorating graves or spending it in solitude fishing a remote trout stream, you might want to take a moment to remember and thank those who gave so much to protect our democracy and ensure our freedoms.

Great turnout at the Wild Acres youth fishing derby

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They had decent weather for a change at the Wild Acres Fishing Derby which was held last Saturday, and over 100 anglers took advantage of it. This was the 6th year that the City of Pittsfield Conservation Commission and Lyon Aviation sponsored the event.

Representing the City of Pittsfield were Becky Manship, Recreation Activities Coordinator and Rob Vanderkar, Pittsfield Conservation Agent. Assisting the anglers, cooking the food, etc were the Onota Fishing Club President Fred Ostrander and his team of OLC volunteers. Dave’s Sporting Store provided the worms and some equipment, Lyon Aviation donated funds for the event and The Berkshire National Fish Hatchery provided the good-sized brook trout. The City of Pittsfield provided the food which was expertly cooked up by Al Lucier, proprietor of Ozzie’s Steak & Eggs of Hinsdale.

There was a slew of trophies awarded based upon the fish sizes and the age group category of the kids. The results are as follows:
8 and Under Category: 1st Place – Lola Rodriguez (14” – 1 lbs 4 oz, largest fish of the day), 2nd Place – Trenton Scales (13.5” – 1.1 lbs), 3rd Place – Wyatt Underhill (13.5” – 1 lb). The following kids in that age category also received trophies: Easton Tatro, Bryer Farrell, Kaylee Prew, Aiden Brewts, Tarey McDurby, Jace Coco, Griffen Sobolewski, Ryker Farrell, Cora Dicroche, Carmelo Coco, Kaiden Kalinowski, Elise Sobolewski and Declan Gallant.
9 to 11 Category: 1st Place – Austin Sayers (12.75” – 10 oz), 2nd Place – Rebecca Stimpson (12.75” – .8oz), 3rd Place Bella Munson (12.5” – 1 lb). Other trophy recipients: Selena Rodriguez, Noah Wesley and Tyrus Ospellino.
12 to 14 Category: 1st Place – Jimmy Spaniol (14” – 1 lb 1 oz), 2nd Place – Tyler Gaudette (12.5” – .7oz) and 3rd Place – Brett Healey (11.5” – .5 oz).
The kids had a great time. Look at that little girl proudly showing off her fish. A nice sized brook trout in one hand and a lollypop in the other. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Our hats off to Lyon Aviation, the City of Pittsfield and the Onota Fishing Club for providing the kids with a such wonderful day.

Trout stocking

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week:
Rivers and brooks: Beartown Brook in Lee, Chickley River in Charlemont and Hawley, Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, Cold River in Florida and Charlemont, Deerfield River in Buckland, Charlemont and Florida, Green River (south) in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Hoosic River (north branch) in Clarksburg and North Adams, Hoosic River (south branch) in Adams and Cheshire, Hop Brook in Lee and Tyringham, Housatonic River(SW branch) in Pittsfield, Hudson Brook in Clarksburg and North Adams, Sackett Brook in Dalton and Pittsfield, Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, West Brook in Great Barrington and Lee, Westfield Brook in Windsor and Cummington, Westfield River (East Branch) in Cummington, Chesterfield and Huntington; Williams River in West Stockbridge and Great Barrington and Yokun Brook in Lenox.

Ponds: Big Pond in Otis and Richmond Pond.

Deerfield River trout study
In 2018, MassWildlife and Trout Unlimited launched a project to study Brown Trout in the upper Deerfield River (Fife Brook Dam downstream to Charlemont). If you fish in this section of the river, you can contribute to the study by completing an online form (https://ee.kobotoolbox.org/x/#w9WpYad0) during or after each fishing trip you take. Since 2018, and for the duration of the study, the adipose fins of all hatchery Brown Trout stocked in the upper Deerfield River will be removed. During this spring, a number of Brown Trout already in the upper Deerfield River will be captured and marked with individually-numbered external tags.
You are asked to fill out the form every time you fish in this section of the Deerfield River. Data collected from completed forms will show the ratio of wild to stocked Brown Trout being caught, the number of tagged fish being caught, the general locations that Brown Trout are being caught, and the effort expended by anglers in this section of the river.
The adipose fin is a small fatty fin on the dorsal surface (back) of the trout between the tail and the dorsal fin. Research has shown that the removal of this fin is the least intrusive, detrimental, or painful compared to all other fins on the body. Fin clipping is performed by trained biologists, who then stock the fish in their usual locations in the upper Deerfield. Eventually, all hatchery fish in this section will be marked with a fin clip. Anglers should note that for the next few years, there may be holdover hatchery browns in the system that have not been marked.
This project took shape through a collaborative process involving MassWildlife and Trout Unlimited (in particular, the Deerfield River and Greater Boston Chapters and the Massachusetts-Rhode Island Council), and included input and assistance from a number of other interested parties and individuals from UMass Amherst, US Geological Survey, local Deerfield River fishing guides, and local watershed groups. The study will yield data on important population metrics including abundance, mortality, and growth rates of individual fish. MassWildlife will use this information to more effectively manage the upper Deerfield River Brown Trout fishery.

Free fishing days

Did you know that you can fish in Massachusetts and neighboring states free without having to purchase a fishing license? In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, the free fishing day is Saturday, June 1. In Vermont, it is Saturday June 8. In New York, you can fish free on the weekend of June 29 -30. The free fishing weekend in Maine is June 1 – 2. In Connecticut, there are two days, July 6 and August 31. Sorry, Rhode Island’s free days already went by. They were May 4 and 5.

Residents and nonresidents may fish without a license. All legal fishing methods and limits apply.

Wild & Scenic Westfield River Free Workshops

Next weekend, there will be two free workshops conducted by the Wild and Scenic Westfield River group. On Saturday, May 25 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm there will be a workshop entitled “Insect Tracking” with naturalist Charley Eiseman. You are invited to join them in Chesterfield as they track and admire the tiny critters that live in the forest. What is a Leaf miner and what is making their exquisite eggs?

Then on the next day, Sunday, May 26 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm there will be a workshop on Center Pond in Becket entitled “Lets Pull Together” Center Pond Weed Project & Action Sports Free Hand and Foot pulling training for land owners and community members. At this workshop you will learn to identify and remove invasive plants, and be part of the solution.

For questions and to register, contact Meredyth Babcock, Phone 413 623-2070 or email volunteer@wildscenicwestfieldriver.org.

Old Mill Trail Interpretive Hike

On Wednesday May 22, from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm, the Housatonic Valley Association (HVA) and Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) will be conducting a hike along the Old Mill Trail (3 miles) located in Hinsdale and Dalton. You are encouraged to explore the mill history of the area through augmented reality and learn about the natural history of the area.

It is free and open to the public. Meet at the trailhead on Old Dalton Road, Hinsdale. For more information, contact HVA 413-298-7024.

 

Conte banquet honors four

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There was a nice crowd at the Silvio O. Conte Awards Banquet at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club last Saturday night to honor the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) 2018 award winners. Past President, Mark Jester, did his usual yeoman’s job as emcee. As readers may recall from my column of March 31, 2019, four people were selected to receive the awards: Virginia Dubois, Jason Sniezek, Jane Winn and Lou Robesch. There were write-ups of each person’s achievements in that article.

The banquet was also dedicated in honor of George “Gige” Darey who passed away in December, 2018. There was a moment of silence for Gige before the festivities began.

MA Fish & Game Commissioner Ron Amidon gave a short talk about the statewide trout stocking program and the great shape the fish are in this year. He mentioned proposed legislation of interest to the outdoor sportsmen, particularly the “archery setback” change. This change would allow DFW to manage wildlife in places where it hasn’t been able to do so up to now. Excessive deer density is not a problem here in the Berkshires but from Rte. 495 east there is a lot of wildlife out there and (DFW) is having a difficult time managing it because of the existing setbacks. If they are able to change the setbacks to 250 feet in many of the eastern communities it will help control the deer herd as well as open up huntable land.

Virginia Dubois of Lee received the Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award for support, dedication and preservation of the outdoor shooting sports, hunting and fishing. She thanked the BCLS, the Lee Sportsmen’s Association officers, Board of Directors, all of the coaches and the Gala Fundraising committee. ”I couldn’t do what I enjoy doing so much without all of your help and support. I truly get back much more than I give when I see the friendships that I have made and see the smiles on the children’s faces at the wonderful programs that we are so grateful to be able to offer at the LSA.

Jason Sniezek of Adams received the Outstanding Achievement Award for his efforts to introduce the youth of Berkshire County to the vast wonders of the outdoors. He thanked the BCLS, CR&G and particularly Mark Jester and Karen Kruszyna who were instrumental in introducing the National Archery in the School (NAIS)program to Hoosac Valley. He said that this program is a very rewarding class to teach and the students embraced it and enjoyed getting out into the woods. Discussing some of the highlights of the class was a very rewarding class for him and he hopes he can continue that in the future and make it better.

Jane Winn of Pittsfield received the Lifetime Achievement Award. (The award was not just for Jane but also for her hubby Bruce, for BEAT and its team of volunteers). It was awarded for the years of work preserving open space, majestic ridge lines and vulnerable wetlands and streams within Berkshire County. Jane, in her acceptance speech, said that “this award means so much to me. BEAT’s mission is protecting the environment for wildlife and I think a lot of the times environmental groups don’t really understand your (outdoor sportsmen’s) depth of support of wildlife and the part that you all do”.

Incidentally, much of Jane’s staff that evening was at the other end of the state accepting an environmental action award. If I may interject, this shows the importance of BEAT and the wonderful work it does…………to be receiving awards from environmentalists in the eastern and from sportsmen in the western part of the state on the same evening. That really says something about the importance of the work they are doing.

Louis Robesch of Pittsfield received the Sportsman of the Year Award for his lifelong dedication and leadership to the sportsmen and the youth of Massachusetts. In introducing Lou Robesch, Mark Jester commented thatLou has been a hunter education instructor for 45 years teaching in Pittsfield and other locations. In accepting the award, Lou thanked “all of the Berkshire County sportsmen for presenting me this award. I really appreciate it very much and accept it with the most gratitude”.

Trout stocking

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week. Rivers and Brooks: Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, South River and Swift River in Ashfield, Potash Brook in Russell and Blandford, Westfield River (East Branch) in Savoy, Windsor, Cummington and Chesterfield; Westfield River (Middle Branch) in Cummington, Worthington, Middlefield and Huntington, Westfield River (Mainstem) in Huntington, Montgomery and Russel; Swift River in Cummington and Goshen, Housatonic River in Hinsdale and Dalton, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Stones Brook in Goshen, Windsor Brook in Hinsdale, Hop Brook in Lee and Tyringham, Goose Pond Brook in Lee; Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Trout Brook in Peru, Buck and Clam Rivers in Sandisfield, Larrywaug Brook in Stockbridge, Windsor Brook in Windsor and Trout Brook in Worthington. Lakes: Pontoosuc, Greenwater Pond, Laurel Lake, York Lake and Norwich Pond in Huntington.
Fishing Derby
The Berkshire Hatchery Foundation in Hartsville-New Marlborough is having a free children’s fishing derby next Saturday, May 11 from 9:00 to 10:30 am at its lower pond. Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Wild Acres Fishing Derby

The free Wild Acres Fishing Derby for children ages 14 and under will take place on Saturday, May 11 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. Bait will be provided, and a limited amount of fishing poles will be available for use on a first come, first serve basis to those who do not own one.

Trophies will be awarded at 12:00 pm to those who catch the largest fish (length & weight).

The event will be hosted by the City of Pittsfield Parks and Recreation Commission with volunteer support provided by the Onota Fishing Club which will assist with dressing fish, providing fishing tips and techniques, baiting, etc. Anyone from the community who needs accommodations for handicapped vehicle access is asked to contact (413) 822-2193.

Art of Concealed Carry
On Thursday, May 9 from 5:00 to 9:30pm, the Lenox Sportsmen’s Club will be hosting a Gun Owner’s Action League (GOAL) training entitled the Art of Conceal Carry. Conducted in the Main Clubhouse upstairs, it costs $90, and you must be a GOAL member to attend. To become a GOAL member or renew your membership, click onto https://goal.org.

The Art of Concealed Carry is a 4-hour concealed handgun seminar designed for individuals who are currently carrying a concealed firearm or those who are considering firearms for self-defense. Please contact Shawn Sullivan at ssullee@icloud.com with any questions or for more information.

Coyote Listening Session

In response to concerns about coyote hunting contests, MassWildlife is holding a Listening Session on May 9 at the Mohawk Regional High School, 26 Ashfield Road in Shelburne Falls from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. The session is designed to share information about coyote management and coyote hunting regulations, and to hear input and concerns from the public.
The Listening Session is an important part of the process that MassWildlife employs when reviewing policy and regulations. As a first step in this review, MassWildlife professional staff will examine the best available science, consult with other outside professionals, solicit input from stakeholders, and if warranted, prepare recommendations for the Fisheries & Wildlife Board to consider.
This is the second in a series of Listening Sessions to be held in the state. The first session was held in early April in Barnstable. These sessions provide more opportunities for the public to share input with MassWildlife staff and the Fisheries and Wildlife Board.
Anyone unable to attend a Listening Session can provide feedback and comments by emailing mass.wildlife@mass.gov or sending written correspondence to: MassWildlife, Attn: Coyote Feedback, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough, MA 01581.
Life Jackets
Just a reminder. In Massachusetts, life jackets must be worn by canoeists and kayakers from September 15 through May 15. Youth under 12 years old, personal watercraft users, waterskiers and stand-up paddleboard users must wear them all the time.
Accidental Shooting Death
As you may be aware, there was an accidental shooting death during the Youth Turkey Hunting Day. I hope to have more information/comments on this unfortunate accident in next week’s column.

Spring turkey hunting season opens tomorrow

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The season opens tomorrow and runs through May 25. Hunting hours begin ½ hour before sunrise and end at noon. Hunters can harvest up to 2 bearded birds in the spring (1 per day).
MassWildlife predicts this spring turkey season will be a productive one for hunters across Massachusetts. In 2017, there was a record high spring harvest, and 2018 was the third highest spring turkey harvest ever. These continued high harvest years indicate a strong, resilient turkey population across all Wildlife Management Zones.
Spring and summer brood productivity can locally influence turkey populations, but overall brood success has been strong over the last several years. Winter severity may sometimes reduce turkey populations in northern climates, but habitat conditions are very good across the state and help buffer the effects of winter.
But don’t let the high abundance of turkeys fool you, says MassWildlife, it’s still very important to scout pre-season. Turkey hunting is very popular in the spring, especially during the first week of season, so scouting will help you identify multiple areas where hunting may be productive.
As always, remember to be respectful when hunting on private and public lands, watch out for ticks and be careful.
Rainbow trout liberated
The skies were leaden colored and there was a chilly wind which whipped across the lake into our faces, at the Stockbridge Bowl boat ramp on Thursday, April 18. But that didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the 50 or so people who were gathered there to witness or take part in the great trout liberation. Little tykes along with their siblings, parents and grandparents helped the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) release about 800 rainbow trout (which had a total estimated weight of approximately 1,000 lbs).
Everyone was focused on getting those trout into the lake. They were beauties, averaging around 14 inches with brilliant reddish pink bands along their sides
Aquatic Biologist Leanda Fontaine trucked the fish in from the McLaughlin Hatchery in Belchertown, MA. Prior to releasing the fish, she gave a little talk about the DFW and the various functions it provides. She talked about the 5 state hatcheries, the number of fish that are stocked statewide (500,000) and in our area (100,000), how long the stocking will take place this spring and other tidbits of interesting information. The overall reason for the event was to get kids, their parents and the general public aware of MassWildlife and its activities.
Leanda and her boss, DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden then netted some fish from the truck fish holding tank, put them into buckets and had the kids rush them to the water’s edge and toss them into the lake. Some of those kids weren’t much taller than the buckets but there were plenty of adults to help them. When everyone got tired of racing to the water’s edge with the buckets of fish, Leanda and Andrew flushed the remaining hundreds of fish directly from the truck to the water.
I am happy to announce that there were no casualties, all the fish survived the ordeal and no buckets were accidentally tossed into the lake with the fish in them. I’m not sure who had the most fun, the adults or the kids.
Warning to the parents/grandparents: Many of these kids are old enough to remember where those fish were stocked and you can safely bet that they will be looking to you to bring them back to catch some of them. Perhaps you may want to catch a few yourself.
Look at that cute girl in the photo. The look of joy and excitement in her face tells it all. Don’t you just love seeing happy kids enjoying the outdoors. Who knows, maybe she was so inspired that someday she will become an aquatic biologist.
Trout stockings
The following local water bodies were scheduled to be stocked with trout last week.
Rivers and Brooks: Bronson Brook in Worthington, Depot Brook in Washington, Factory Brook in Middlefield, Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Little River in Worthington and Huntington, Mill Brook in Plainfield, Walker Brook in Becket and Chester, West Branch Brook in Chesterfield and Worthington, Westfield Brook in Windsor and Cummington, Westfield River (East Branch) in Cummington and Chesterfield, Williams River in West Stockbridge and Great Barrington and Yokum Brook in Becket.
Lakes and Ponds: Big Pond in Otis, Lake Buel, Lake Garfield, Goose Pond, Greenwater Pond and Otis Reservoir.
Firearms Safety Course
The Cheshire Rod & Gun Club will be hosting a scheduled live fire NRA & Massachusetts State Police Certified Firearms Safety Course next Sunday, May 5. This is to qualify MA residents and non-residents alike for the MA License-To- Carry or FID Card. It will be a hands-on live firing, one day course. A full lunch and a $10 gift certificate to Pete’s Gun Shop will be provided.
The cost is $100 which covers all ammo, safety gear, class materials, certificates, an NRA Firearms Safety textbook and the food. The class starts at 9:00 am and lasts until about 4:30 pm. Interested parties are asked to pre-register by calling or stopping in at Pete’s Gun Shop at 413-743-0780, as space is limited. This live fire course fills up very quickly and you should call or stop in early to pre-register. They also ask you to be there by 8:45 am to sign in.
New Land Protected

MassWildlife recently acquired 13 acres in the town of Worthington on Sam Hill Road. This small but strategic acquisition provides greatly improved access to the part of the Fox Den Wildlife Management Area which is in Worthington. Beware, Sam Hill Road is an unpaved dead-end road which can get very muddy at times.

Map, Compass & Survival Course

On Saturday, May 11, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, MassWildlife will be conducting a Map, Compass, & Survival course at the DCR/Mass Park’s Visitor Center, 740 South Street, Pittsfield. This course is not recommended for students less than 12 years of age. To enroll call (508) 389-7830 Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00pm.
Let’s not take this anymore!
What’s going on with those aggressive wild animals lately? Not too long ago, a young girl from Norwell was chased into her house by a coyote. It bit her arm and ran off with one of her shoes. Then there was the bear incident in Hinsdale a couple of weeks ago where a family’s small horse was killed. Now comes news of gangs of wild turkeys becoming aggressive, intimidating and pecking people near Boston.
Lock em up! That’s what I say. Build a wall! They’re thugs, bad actors! They’re intimidating us. Let them know that they are not welcomed in our neighborhoods. Round them up and drop them off in a sanctuary town, like Ripton!
Or we could take a more sensible approach by taking down those bird feeders to help keep the bears and turkeys away. We could put our garbage pails near the curbside in the morning instead of the night before. We could cover windows and shiny objects to keep turkeys from responding aggressively to shiny objects and their own reflections while they’re trying to assert dominance within their flock.
Pardon the levity this morning, but I think you get the point.

Dennis Regan is retiring as HVA Berkshire Manager

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Dennis Regan took the job in 1999 because he had a strong interest in the management of water resources and loved to kayak. That was 20 years ago and he didn’t think he would be here that long. Now, he is glad he did, for he worked with some great people and was involved with some wonderful projects.
One of those wonderful projects was the Stream Team project, where HVA goes to various communities to get people involved in protecting the river. After some training volunteers then go to specific sections of the river and document what they see…. the good, bad and ugly. With the information obtained, they meet and report on what they saw and make recommendations on what they would like to see happen. “That’s the challenge”, said Regan, “getting all of that information and compiling it down with specific concrete recommendations”.
“People get excited about the environment when they know more about it,” he said, “In providing people an opportunity to know more about the Housatonic River, they get actively involved in it”. They begin by collecting data on river conditions and use, that may not be known about, and hopefully, doing something with it. He said that volunteers have been collecting data continually for 20 years and have followed up on a lot of recommendations.
Originally, five stream teams compiled a list of existing conditions, on the river. Ten years after these original assessments they went back and reassessed those sections with other stream teams and different people. The findings were then compared with what was recommended 10 years prior to see what had happened. They were very happy to see that most of their recommendations were followed up by them or other organizations. Even the State and EPA used some of that information. Data collection is still ongoing and now the stream teams are assessing the tributaries.
“When the stream team reports of the health and use of the rivers were given to the communities, they generated local interest, more people wanted to know more about the river” said Regan.
He feels that the passage of the Clean Water Act of 1972 was the beginning of restoring our rivers. A main focus was getting the communities to realize that the Housatonic River was an asset and that we should be able to utilize the river to stimulate local economics, community development and recreation. HVA feels that the best way to get people to care and get involved in protecting the river is to get them on or near it. This way they can see for themselves that it is not a negative thing and they don’t have to fear it.
“Many people knew that there was a Housatonic River out there somewhere” said Regan, “but they didn’t quite know where it was and whether or not they could go paddling on it. And if they wished to go paddling on it, where do they put in or take out. People didn’t know anything about the river”.
HVA saw that as a great opportunity for them to fill that niche. They updated a paddle guide and created new access spots. They were fortunate with the Natural Resources Damage (NRD) Trustees. Through a grant with them, they were able to get four new river access points in Pittsfield, Lenox, Lee and Sheffield. Since then two more were added in Stockbridge at the Glendale Dam, and a floating dock was installed in Stockbridge. They are presently developing 3 new sites on Division St in Great Barrington, on the Westside Riverway Park project in Pittsfield, and on Maple Avenue in Sheffield.
Dennis is quite proud of the Churchill Brook Culvert Replacement Project in Pittsfield where they utilized another NRD grant and, working with the Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT), replaced an ineffective culvert on Churchill Road with a much improved one which allows fish to travel upstream to spawn.
He feels that perhaps one of his proudest projects was the creation of the Old Mill Trail where volunteers and a professional trail crew developed a mile and a half trail along the East Branch connecting Hinsdale and Dalton. “It was one of our biggest projects and we are very happy to see that it is well used. It took 10 years, involving the towns, state, volunteers and Peter Jensen’s trail crew”, he said.
Dennis remembers that when he first got here, he usually didn’t see anybody on the river. People had left it alone. “Because of that,” he said, “when you paddled the river, you felt that you were in upstate Maine, NH or VT. It was fairly isolated”. People were missing an opportunity then, but now it is different. It’s good to see so many fishermen, boaters, kayakers, ice fishermen and others are enjoying the river. Now there are even fishing and paddling guides.
He feels that people are much more knowledgeable about the river now than before. There seems to be much more respect for the river and there are many efforts to protect the river now and not to do anything to harm it. If paddlers see blowdown, yes, they take some stuff out but not everything. They clear the middle of the river to allow passage, but leave the sides alone. They know that fish require such structure
Dennis also feels that he was very lucky to be involved in two source-to-sound paddle trips on the Housatonic River. These trips put in at the Hinsdale Flats in Washington’s Mud Pond and 10 days later take out at Long Island Sound with salt water, salt air and sea gulls. On this trip you see the river gradually change from the start by pushing your kayak or canoe through bramble. The vegetation and the land use changes, and all of a sudden you are in a wide river with eagles and the smell of salt in the air and you are paddling in waves ending in Long Island Sound.
Dennis was the recipient of the 2014 Berkshire County League of Sportsmen’s “Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award”. In addition to the above mentioned accomplishments, he was also acknowledged for his involvement in the FERC re-licensing of the Glendale Dam, the RIFLS Program dealing with observed and/or measured flow alterations in streams, for working with the grade schools focusing on biodiversity, both chemical and biological, water quality monitoring, mapping, storm drain awareness and understanding the PCB situation and cleanup.
He led macro-invertebrate studies on streams throughout the entire watershed, bank stabilization programs (planting native trees and shrubbery), dam removals, canoe rides, river clean-ups, oversight of ACEC’s, and was an active member of the CCC (Citizen’s Coordinating Council) dealing with the PCB clean up on the river.
Dennis plans to retire on April 30. His parting advice? You need to take some time to go out and attach yourselves to the river somehow. Either to paddle, walk along or sit by the river, relax and let yourselves subconsciously focus and you will see life everywhere in/on the river. “Go on the river”, he says, “and you will become a naturalist if you stay long enough. Appreciate the river!”
There is retirement party scheduled for him on Thursday, April 25. Contact Alison Dixon at the HVA office(adixon@hvatoday.org) for more information.
Spring Trout Stockings
The following was the anticipated stocking list for the week of April 8 through April 12. As always, the schedule was subject to change due to weather, river conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.
Rivers: Green River in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Deerfield River in Florida, Buckland and Charlemont, Housatonic River in Hinsdale and Dalton, Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlborough, Westfield River (Mainstem) in Huntington, Russell, Westfield and Montgomery; Westfield River (Middle Branch) in Worthington, Middlefield, Chester and Huntington. Lakes and Ponds: Ashfield Pond in Ashfield, Littleville Reservoir in Chester, Upper Highland Lake in Goshen, Mansfield Lake in Great Barrington, Littleville Reservoir and Norwich Pond in Huntington and Windsor Pond in Windsor.
Venison/Italian Buffet dinner
The Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Club will be having a Venison/Italian Buffet dinner on Saturday, April 20 at the American Legion Post 155 in Dalton. This dinner will benefit its Land Development efforts. Cocktails at 5:00 pm and Dinner at 6:00 pm. There will be a black powder gun raffle, 50/50 and kid’s raffle. Donation is $20 and children under 12 free. To reserve tickets, call Ed B. at (413)443-9371 or Stan B. at (413)841-8345.

School is out, help stock trout!
This Thursday, the public is invited to help MassWildlife stock trout during school vacation week. This is a chance to meet MassWildlife fisheries staff, view trout up close, and learn about places to fish near you. Meet at 1:30 p.m. at the Stockbridge Bowl Boat Ramp off Route 183 in Stockbridge. Bring some kids along.

New Land Protected

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At the March meeting of the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen, DFW Western District Supervisor, Andrew Madden, reported that MassWildlife recently acquired 70 acres of land in the town of Sheffield on Guilder Hollow Road. The property abuts the Dolomite Ledges Wildlife Management Area and contains open fields, steep cliff sides, and excellent habitat for deer, bear, turkey and other game species. Boundary marking and parking access will be completed this spring.
This and all other DFW wildlife management areas are open to the public for hunting, fishing, trapping and other passive recreation such as bird watching, hiking, etc.

Black bears relocated from dangerous area

Well, we knew that sooner or later the black bear population would be spreading into eastern Massachusetts. To get there quicker, it appears that they are taking to the highways. Did you hear about the mama bear and her two cubs that denned up on a highway median strip along Route 2 in Templeton? The following information was obtained from the MassWildlife web site:

On the morning of March 14, MassWildlife, with the help of transportation and law enforcement officials, closed Rte. 2 in the Templeton area for a short period of time to successfully immobilize and relocate a GPS-collared female black bear with two cubs from a wintering den site in the highway median strip.
Based on the GPS-collar data, MassWildlife biologists know the adult female went into this den site for the winter in November. She gave birth to her cubs some time in mid to late January. MassWildlife officials chose to relocate the bear family to a safer and more suitable location in a nearby wooded area to reduce the risk of vehicle collision when the cubs grow large enough to travel with their mother. The exact relocation site is not being disclosed to protect the safety of the young cubs at this particularly vulnerable phase of their lives.
The adult female bear weighed 206 pounds; her two cubs (1 male and 1 female) each weighed a hefty 8+ pounds. The adult female is one of over thirty bears involved in a MassWildlife research project comparing differences between suburban-dwelling bears and bears residing in more rural areas. MassWildlife biologists are gathering data by collaring bears with radio telemetry and GPS-collars in the Berkshires, Connecticut River Valley, and Worcester County.
MassWildlife officials are reminding the public that March is the month when hungry bears emerge from their winter dens and seek out food. Natural foods such as acorns and other nuts are usually available on the ground, but last year’s fall hard mast crop was meager. Other seasonally available natural foods eaten by bears, such as skunk cabbage, are mostly ignored when there is an easy and more filling meal at backyard bird feeders, chicken coops, beehives, garbage cans, and dumpsters.

To prevent conflicts between people and bears, MassWildlife urges homeowners and food-related business in northern Middlesex County, Worcester County, western Massachusetts, or other areas where bears have been seen, to take down bird feeders and secure dumpsters and other waste containers. Beekeepers and poultry owners are advised to set up electric fencing as protection against marauding bears. For more information about black bears in Massachusetts and watch a video titled “Don’t Feed Bears, Keep Them Wild” visit mass.gov/bears.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

From time to time, I am asked why this column promotes the local annual Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) banquets. They note that we don’t have any elk around here, and there aren’t that many local sportsmen who go out west to hunt elk.

Well, there are a surprising number of elk hunters in our area, but let’s consider the following: Just in the year 2018, the RMEF carried out 179 habitat enhancement projects benefitting 134,699 acres in 27 states and permanently protected 13,431 acres in 8 states. Since inception in 1984, the RMEF protected or enhanced 7.4 million acres, roughly 3 ½ times the size of Yellowstone National Park.

During 2018 it opened/improved access to 26,566 acres in 5 states. Since inception, it opened or improved 1.2 million acres, roughly 2 ½ times the size of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park.

 

That same year volunteers in 500+ chapters across 49 states raised record revenue for local and nationwide conservation missions. (fence pulls, construction of wildlife water developments, are among a few). In just that year, it provided $715,617 in funding to assist with 39 elk research projects and studies in 14 states plus 7 projects with national implications.

Since inception the total value of its work is estimated to be $1.1 billion. It has assisted with successful elk reintroductions in Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Ontario, Canada.

The local RMEF banquets are always very well attended. I suspect that most people who attend them will never hunt elk, but never-the-less they do feel good about doing something to increase elk habitat and help assure their survival.

Remembering George “Gige” Darey

Well, it’s been about 3 months since George “Gige” Darey of Lenox passed away. Readers may recall that he served 38 years on the MA Fish & Wildlife Board, 35 of which as its chairman. I’m not sure that all the accolades bestowed onto him fully covered his accomplishments while serving on that board. So, let’s take a look back and consider some of what he accomplished while serving on that board as recapped by F&W Board Vice Chairman Mike Roche:
• In 1978, when Gige took his seat on the Board, there were 4,000 acres of land protected by DFW. Today there are over 200,000.
• The deer harvest was 3,107. Last year it was over 13,000.
• Wild turkey was an experiment in 1978. Now the kill is over 3,000 a year.
• There were no nesting bald eagles in 1978. Since then 702 eagles have fledged with 68 nesting pairs last year.
• The pheasant program got to a point where it became self-sustainable.
• Regulations requiring the switch from lead shot to steel shot for waterfowl hunters were implemented.
• The Piping Plover was an endangered species back then, but now MA has most of the east coast piping plover population.
• The National Heritage Program was transferred from the Department of Environmental Management to MassWildlife in 1990 and the non-game check-off on tax forms was implemented.
• Gige urged the implementation of the “Presumption of Openness”. Now all land purchased in the Commonwealth is presumed to be open to hunting and fishing.
• There has been no license fee increase in over 20 years.
• He was heavily involved in the establishment of the Mass Outdoor Heritage Foundation, a non-profit (501c3). Those funds are used for such projects as wild brook trout restoration, and other worthy projects.
• Unlike many other states that allows Sunday hunting, he was able to obtain compensatory hunting dates for migratory bird hunting in Massachusetts.
• The Deer Management Zone system was implemented to improve opportunity for sportsmen.
• The Wildlands Stamp was established where sportsmen self-imposed a $5 assessment to the sale of hunting and fishing licenses. These funds were to be dedicated exclusively to the protection of wildlife habitat open to hunting, fishing, and other wildlife related recreation and science-based management of wildlife and wildlife habitat.
• A financial partnership with Ducks Unlimited for conservation efforts in Canada was established.
• A Memorandum of Understanding with the Environmental Police was established to increase resources and improve the outdoor education programs.
• Gige promoted the Archery-in-the-Schools program.
• He was Board Chairman when construction of the new DFW headquarters took place– one of the world’s finest and most environmentally progressive buildings.
• He fought hard to keep the DFW Director’s position from becoming a political appointment and keeping it in the hands of fish and wildlife professionals.

And, if I may add a few more that Roche did not mention:
• He fought for and finally obtained the Trout Catch & Release Sections in the Housatonic River in Lee and Stockbridge, and while at it, got the trout stocking program established which enhanced it. He accomplished the same for the Millers River.
• He was heavily involved in the environmental battle with GE for clean-up of Housatonic River.
• Gige was heavily involved with the ACEC (Area of Critical Environmental Concern) designation on the Housatonic River.
• Leveraging State and town funds, he played an important role with the Town of Lenox acquisition and conservation of the Post Farm, Parson’s Marsh and the Edith Wharton Park.

He accomplished a lot during that time period, ey?