Category Archives: Hunting

Hunting

Three deer taken in the statewide paraplegic hunt, all in Berkshire County

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MassWildlife holds a special three-day deer hunting season for paraplegic hunters. Staff and volunteers place hunters in safe areas at several hunt locations in the state. When a hunter shoots a deer, volunteers assist the hunter by retrieving the deer, field dressing it, and getting it checked in on site.

Each year, about 12-20 paraplegic hunters sign up for the special hunt. For Some of these people, it’s the only opportunity they have to hunt. The hunt is typically held at 5 sites:

  • The Northern Berkshires on private properties
  • The Southern Berkshires at Mt. Washington
  • The Quabbin Reservation
  • Devens Reserve Forces Training Area in Lancaster
  • Otis/Edwards Military Reservation in Falmouth/Bourne

Frequently, hunters see deer and several get the opportunity to harvest a deer.

The dates of the 3-day hunt this year were October 31 through November 2.

The weather was, at times, downright balmy. Statewide this year some 18 hunters participated, which included 3 at the Northern Berkshires site and 4 at the Southern Berkshires site.

This year’s Paraplegic Hunt in Southern Berkshires, was an interesting one. For one thing, the weather was beautiful with temperatures well into the 70’s. For another thing, three of the four hunters successfully got deer, which were the only deer taken in the statewide paraplegic hunt this year. Two does were taken on Thursday.  Marc Tartaglia of Barkhamsted, CT got one. Readers may remember that last year was Marc’s first year participating in the hunt and he took two deer. Vyto Sablevicius of Norwood, MA took the second doe, a nice one weighing 125 lbs. dressed.  Dan Massaconi of Cheshire took a doe on Friday. Tim Davidson of Sturbridge MA hunted only Friday and Saturday afternoon. He saw deer but did not harvest any.

This year’s Southern Berkshire hunt was interesting for another reason, too. There was a surprise in store for volunteer Shaun Smith of Lee.  MassWildlife Assistant Director of Operations, Trina Moruzzi came out to the Berkshires and presented Shaun a plaque acknowledging his 50 years of involvement in the Paraplegic Hunt Program. The beautifully carved wooden plaque read, “MassWildlife thanks Shaun Smith for 50 years of dedication to Paraplegic Hunters.”

Shawn holding the plaque along with Trini Moruzzi

Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden commented that they really appreciated all that he has done to help in this hunt over those years.  Shawn replied that he couldn’t have lasted doing this for 50 years without the help of all of his fellow volunteers.  True, said Madden, “but you are the person who kept it all going.”

Then his fellow volunteers presented him with a golden Henry Boy .45-70 caliber rifle.  It was beautifully mounted by fellow volunteer Fred Lampro on a piece of box elder maple wood. The ceremony was a total surprise to him, but he should have been suspicious when his wife Mary showed up moments before the event.

Shawn and fellow volunteers at the presentation of the Henry Boy rifle.

Following the ceremony, the hunters, volunteers and guests settled down to a wonderful meal prepared by Wendy Lampro which included venison chili, scalloped potatoes, mac and cheese, etc. served up with grilled venison steaks.  She also provided a wonderful assortment of home-made desserts.  The night before, she prepared a wonderful venison stew for them.

Each morning the volunteers helped the hunters get to their deer stands, and around noon they brought them to the DCR Headquarters in Mount Washington and provided them with a warm, home cooked meal prepared by Wendy Lampro.

Southern Berkshire volunteers and their years of involvement are as follows: Shaun Smith – 50 years, Marc Portieri – 35, Gregg Arienti – 29, Matt Roche (DCR) – 17, Fred Lampro – 15, Thomas Dean – 13, Dan White – 3, Christel Massaconi –4,  James Dellea – 3, Wendy Lampro – 3, and Shamus Daley – 2.  Kudos to all!

MassWildlife Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden was there, as was Wildlife Biologist Nate Buckhout in case any deer needed tagging.  Also, Dan White from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) was there.

Special thanks go out to Cobb of Western Mass, Cobb of River Valley, Shaw Pond Club, Lee Fire Dept., AMVETS Post 77 and Osden’s Plumbing and Heating of Blandford. Special thanks also go to the DCR for providing the space to gather, eat, and warm up at Mt. Washington Reservation.

In the Northern Berkshires, Rick French was once again the main volunteer coordinator.  The hunters included Shawn Mei of Baldwinville, MA, Dale Bailey of Clarksburg, MA and Dave Alderman of Petersburg, NY. All of them saw deer but none were harvested.

Northern Berkshire volunteers and their years of involvement are as follows:  Rick French – 38 years, Stacy Sylvester – 36, J. Sylvester – 26, Jim Guiden, Alex Dargie and Joe Benoni.  Sorry, I don’t have the number of years for all of the volunteers. J. Sylvester came all the way from Maine to volunteer for the hunt.

Unfortunately, Shawn Mei’s father, Tony Mei, passed away since last year. Stacy Sylvester said that he was greatly missed. He had been a volunteer for 33 years. Shawn’s brother Tim Mei took his place volunteering.

The volunteers brought the hunters to a central point at lunchtime and provided them with a delicious meal of moose stew cooked up by Ruth French.

Special thanks go out to Jim Guiden for providing the headquarters space and to the Cricket Creek Farm in Williamstown for permitted hunting on their property.

Western District MassWildlife staff covering the Northern site location were Eli Pease, Heather Sadler and Jacob Morris-Siegel.  EPO Officers Jonathan Kolis and Joshua Kelleher periodically stopped in.

According to Susan McCarthy, total statewide, there were 64 individuals aside from hunters and their family members supporting the program and assisting hunters.  That included some 14 MassWildlife employees, 6 DCR staff members, 5 private landowners, 4 military personnel, 16 hunter helpers and 16 other volunteers.

As noted in past columns, this story is not all about the hunters and their harvests.  There are other components which must occur to make the hunt a success.  One is the volunteering. Statewide there were 16 volunteers assisting the physically challenged hunters get to ideal hunting spots and helped them by getting the deer moving, retrieving the deer, field dressing them, and getting them checked in on site.

McCarthy noted that, “As always, this hunt would not be possible without our fantastic network of MassWildlife and DCR staff, private landowners in the Berkshires, and our amazing volunteers.”

Incidentally, paraplegic sportsmen and women interested in taking part in the hunt next year should contact Susan McCarthy at (508) 389-6326.

Good acorn year

MassWildlife asks, have you been dodging a constant barrage of falling acorns, startled by the thwack of nuts pelting your car’s roof, or raking up mounds of acorns in your yard?   Well, like many trees, oaks go through cycles where they produce more seeds in some years than in others. These times of high production, known as “mast years,” occur every 2-3 years. While an abundance of acorns may be an annoyance to some, it’s a welcome buffet for wildlife that are preparing for a long cold winter.

In my opinion, it appears that this is a good mast year for acorns in the Berkshires. You might want to keep this in mind when you scout out your hunting areas and plan your hunting strategy accordingly.

Its really dry out there

I’m sure local hunters have noticed how dry it is in our woods and fields these days.  Those little streams that we used to step over while hunting woodcock, pheasants and bunnies are now bone dry.  Our bird dogs and beagles are hard pressed to find water to lap up.  Please be careful, especially you smokers, that you don’t inadvertently start a fire.

Actually, I’m surprised that the State hasn’t closed the woods to hunting and hiking like they used to do years ago.

Last I heard is that rain is forecasted for Veterans Day.  I hope so.

For you brave souls who will be out archery hunting that day, sitting in a tree stand shivering in the much needed rain, it might behoove you to remember the veterans who made the sacrifices to ensure that we live in a free and democratic country.

Thank you vets.

New Goose Pond accessible boat sidewalk and floating dock erected in honor of Evan “Cole” Colbert

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On Friday, October 4, state and local leaders, friends, family, and community members gathered at the Goose Pond Boat Ramp in Tyringham for the dedication of new accessible improvements there. The improvements include an accessible concrete sidewalk and floating dock to improve access for people of all abilities to fishing and boating. A granite stone and plaque were erected to honor the late Evan Scott Colbert and his passion for the outdoors, being on the water, and fishing and boating at Goose Pond.

These improvements were made possible through local community fundraising efforts from the Cole’s Memorial Hard Water Fishing Derby with the generous donations to Office of Fishing & Boating Access (OFBA) Trust Fund. In January, 2020, a new ice fishing derby was established dedicated in Evan’s memory who passed away in July, 2019 at the age of 29.

He loved the outdoors and spent his leisure time fishing and boating. He could often be seen enjoying the waters of Goose Pond casting his reel while watching the eagles fly above.

All proceeds of the ensuing derbies went towards a donation to the Goose Pond Boat Ramp in Evan’s name. Last year, they donated $5,000 to OFBA to help fund the improvements

Among those attending were MA Fish & Game Commissioner Thomas O’Shea, MA House Representative William “Smitty” Pignatelli, State Senator Paul Mark, Tyringham Selectman James Consolati and Terrance W. Smith, Deputy Chief Engineer & Constructor.

“The dedication of this public access point to Evan Colbert is a fitting tribute to a young man whose great love of the outdoors and passion for fishing and boating has inspired his family and friends to give back,” said Tom O’Shea. “We greatly appreciate the support that has allowed us to increase access to Goose Pond, a cherished great pond in the Berkshires. The new accessible walkway and floating dock will greatly improve the experience for boaters and anglers like Evan who appreciate nothing more than a day out on the water.”

“The many years of successfully raising funds through events, donations, and visibility are now culminating with the dedication of the Goose Pond Boat Ramp in honor of Evan ‘Cole’ Colbert.  This is an amazing example of the sense of community that makes the Berkshires so special,” said Mark “The improvements that have been made and this dedication ceremony is a testament to how important Evan was to so many and that his memory continues to bring people together and bring out the very best in all of us.”

“Evan Colbert was an exceptional young man who loved to fish with friends and family on Goose Pond. He was taken too soon, leaving a void in all our hearts. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of recognition for this wonderful enhancement to the pond he loved to spend time on,” said Pignatelli.

“The construction and dedication of the Goose Pond Boat Ramp is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when the state, town and private citizens work together. We now have a great new facility, which makes boating on Goose Pond safer, much more convenient, and more enjoyable. At the same time, we have established a lasting memorial for Evan Colbert, who is loved and missed by all who knew him,” said Consolati.

Inscribed on the plaque were the following words, “Evan had a passion for the outdoors, fishing, boating, being on the water and making the most of his time with family and friends.”

Throughout the ceremony, people kept searching the sky for the bald eagle which frequently flies over Goose Pond.  It never showed up, at least not during the ceremony.  Perhaps it didn’t want to upstage the wonderful event honoring Cole which was going on down below.

A buck at the end of the rainbow

On Tuesday afternoon, October 13, Kevin Troiano of Housatonic was on the phone discussing the possibility of going out bow hunting for deer with his dad Andy.  Hail and rain was coming down where Kevin was but it was sunny where Andy was.  For a while, they didn’t think they would be going out.  But then, Andy saw a beautiful double rainbow came out and suggested that they go.  He felt that it was a good luck charm and there might be something nice at the end of that rainbow.

They did go out and from his tree stand in Housatonic, Kevin spotted two large bucks about the same size, one with a tall rack of antlers and the other with a wide rack.  They were about 30 yards away.  Kevin couldn’t take a shot at the buck with the tall rack as it was partially blocked by the other deer. So, he let his arrow fly at the one that provided a clear shot and hit it, but it ran off.  He called his father to help him track it down.  Because it was wet and rainy, there was not a good blood trail to follow.  It was getting late and they really didn’t want to leave the deer there over night to resume tracking the next morning as coyotes would surely find it and eat it up overnight.

They made one more circle and found it just before dark.  It took a total of 45 minutes of tracking to find that deer.  It was a 10-point buck. They had to drag it about 150 years to get it out of the woods.

The deer weighed 210 lbs. dressed according to Fishery & Wildlife scales. (Its live weight was estimated to be around 280 lbs.) They estimated the deer to be 4 ½ years old.

Kevin is going to have the head and shoulder mounted by Wild Arts Taxidermy out of Connecticut.

New gun law confusion persists

There still remains much confusion regarding the new gun law which took effect this month (Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024). What is understood to be the law this week could very well be changed or re-clarified the next.  At the October 5th Berkshire County League of Sportsmen’s meeting, MassWildlife Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden distributed MassWildlife’s most recent information on this subject.  Hunters are encouraged to click onto the MassWildlife website entitled “Hunting with a firearm in Massachusetts”). https://www.mass.gov/info-details/hunting-with-a-firearm-in-massachusetts) for their most recent data.  He stressed that the website will more than likely be updated as they get new information.

He noted that his district office is getting a lot of calls from out of state hunters.

 

Incidentally, according to Toby Leary, leader of The Civil Rights Coalition, more than 90,000 people signed petitions to delay enactment of the law and request that it be brought up for statewide vote in 2026.  That was well above the 37,287 required to put a repeal question before voters. Leary said the group did not use paid signature-gatherers and relied entirely on volunteers.

Hunters and Anglers recognized

On September 1, 2024 Governor Maura Healey gave a proclamation recognizing September 28, 2024 as National Hunting and Fishing Day and urged all citizens of the Commonwealth to take cognizance of this event and participate fittingly in its observance. The proclamation stated:

  • To this day, the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game is funded, in part, by sportsmen and women, through the American System of Conservation Funding. In 2023, Massachusetts’ sportsmen and women generated more than $24 million to support the Department’s conservation efforts.
  • More than 330,000 hunters and anglers support the state’s economy through their spending more than $600 million while engaged in their pursuits.
  • This spending supports over 9,000 jobs in Massachusetts and generates $70 million in state and local taxes.
  • Their license fees helped fund state efforts to provide for healthy and sustainable natural resources.
  • Sportsmen and women supported self-imposed excise taxes on firearms and ammunition, fishing tackle and motorboat fuels to raise additional conservation funds.

Old Mill Trail

 

On Wednesday, October 23, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m., you are invited to  to celebrate the completion of accessibility improvements at the Old Mill Trail in Hinsdale. The improvements include a more accessible trailhead and parking lot, making this beautiful trail more inclusive for everyone, regardless of their mobility needs.

 

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is not required, but requested.

How will the new Massachusetts gun law affect hunters?

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Much of the following information has been obtained from the Massachusetts Gun Owners Action League (GOAL) and/or the Massachusetts Conservation Alliance.

On July 25, 2024, Governor Maura Healey signed Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024 into law. The new law brings new restrictions to every part of the Second Amendment community, including hunters with modern firearms and muzzleloaders alike.

GOAL has been fighting this bill since February of 2023. Sadly, the final language was kept secret for nearly three months. According to Jim Wallace, Executive Director of GOAL, the 116-page bill was released to the legislature and the public at 9:00 pm on a Wednesday and it was “rammed through” the voting process in less than 24 hours. They (legislators) have no idea what they have done and have no idea what’s coming our way.”

Since its release, GOAL has been constantly deciphering the document and was directly contacting stakeholder groups that would be adversely affected by the new law.

The following is some of what Massachusetts hunters and shooters need to know. For more detailed information, go to www.GOAL.org/gunban.

The effective date of the law was supposed to be October 23, 2024 (90 days after signed by the Governor) unless changed by action of the Governor. She could sign an emergency order which meant the law would take effect immediately. “If she does that” said Wallace “she is screwing her state agencies.  They have no clue as to how they can make this work.”  Well, Governor Healey did sign the emergency order on Wednesday, October 2.

According to GOAL, under the new law:

Junior Hunters  
Massachusetts resident junior hunters that hold only an Federal ID Card (FID), will be prohibited
from possessing any type of semi-auto handgun, rifle or shotgun in the field.

Card Holders of all ages:
Massachusetts resident hunters that hold only an FID Card, of all ages, will be prohibited from possessing any type of semi-auto handgun, rifle or shotgun in the field.

Muzzleloaders:

According to figures provided by MassWildlife, based on 2023 data, some 32,805 hunters purchased primitive firearms season stamps, and, based upon the hunter survey, MassWildlife estimates 30,469 hunted the primitive firearms season for deer. The deer harvest data, across all three seasons shows that 21% (3,189) of deer were harvested using a muzzleloader.

Now, the new law requires that anyone firing a muzzle loader for any purpose must now have an FID Card or License to Carry (LTC) to purchase and possess the ammunition components – black powder (or equivalent), percussion caps, round balls, etc.

Any muzzle loading firearm that does, or can take, modern ammunition components such as a shotgun primer is now considered to be a modern firearm. This will now require anyone in possession of such a muzzleloader to possess an FID Card or LTC. It also requires that the firearm be registered under the new mandates. This also includes any firearm that has been, or can be, converted to a muzzle loader. Any firearm that has a frame or receiver. Any firearm that can be readily converted to fire fixed ammunition by replacing the barrel, bolt, breechblock, or any combination thereof.

Non-resident Hunters:

  • Must now register their firearms with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts prior to entering the state. (I wonder how many will know that or will go through the hassle).
  • The new law bans the possession of semi-automatic firearms (including rifles and shotguns).
  • It bans any non-resident under 18 from hunting in Massachusetts.

There is no question that some sort of action should be taken to curb the gun violence and mass shootings in our country.  People should not fear sending their kids to school or allowing them to attend an event for fear that they may never come back home.  Governor Healey and the legislature are to be commended for taking steps to try to eliminate or reduce the chances of such things happening in Massachusetts. Unfortunately, the new law, in my opinion, goes way, way too far and adversely affects Massachusetts hunters.  Does anyone seriously think that banning a 3 or 5 shot semi-automatic shotgun or one-shot muzzleloader is going to resolve this problem?

I wonder if the Governor and legislators know what goes into preparing a muzzleloading gun to fire?  At the risk of using too much valuable column space I offer the following:

After putting the safety on, if the gun has one, put the gun powder into the muzzle (barrel) of the gun, making sure it reaches the breech, add a wad and bullet ensuing that it is tight against the powder, tamp it down with the ramrod to ensure there are no spaces, put a primer (percussion cap) at the touch hole (a small hole at the rear of the breech through which the charge is ignited), pull the hammer back or slide a bolt, release the safety, aim and fire.  You better make darn sure that the barrel/breech is cool enough before reloading the gun powder for the next shot. Not exactly the sort of gun that you would use to shoot up a place, wouldn’t you say?

There is no exemption for black powder ammunition.  You can have the gun, but not the black powder or round balls.  It affects re-enactors.  Non- residents must get a LTC to handle the ammo for muskets.

I wonder if there is enough time for agencies such as MassWildlife to implement changes into the 2025 excerpts?   For example, what is going to qualify for muzzleloader hunting season?  If considered a modern firearm, are you still eligible to use it for muzzleloader hunting season?   What changes will have to be made by basic hunting course instructors, etc., etc.?

According to figures provided by MassWildlife, some 6,321 non-resident hunters purchased hunting licenses in 2023.  What about those who have already purchased their 2024 non-resident license?  Will this new law make it illegal for them to come to Massachusetts and hunt?  If so, will they be able to get their license fees refunded?  Being surrounded by three other states, many non-residents hunt in the Berkshires and their absence will surely be felt by local businesses.

I suspect that there will be a sizable drop in the number of both non- resident and resident hunters in Massachusetts. What a shame for MassWildlife has been working so hard to bolster the numbers through its R3 program (an effort to increase participation in hunting and the shooting sports through Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation.)

I also suspect that such reductions will, in the long run, negatively affect Governor Healey’s initiative to increase forests acquisitions to fight climate change.  More deer hunters are needed especially in the eastern part of our state to control the deer population which is wreaking havoc in their forests already by over-browsing of the young tree shoots. A few years back, that problem was recognized in the Quabbin area which had previously banned hunting, and as a result, annual two-day controlled deer hunts were established.

 

Will the Massachusetts Environmental Police have enough time to adjust to the new laws?  Will they issue warnings, give out fines, or fines plus confiscate firearms?

How many times have we heard or read the words, “We are not going to come and take away your guns.” That may technically be true.  However; I agree with Jim Wallace’s assessment when he recently said, “The plan is to make it illegal for you to do or possess something.  If you are arrested for noncompliance with the law, you become a felon.”  There goes your guns.

There are tens of thousands of Massachusetts residents who have signed a petition to delay the law and to bring it up for statewide vote in 2026.  This would have allowed residents to read and comprehend the law before voting on it.  What’s wrong with that? Its all moot now.

Tom Nadolny, President of the Lenox Sportsmen’s Club recently said that sportsmen were about half way to the required 50,000 petition signature mark, but he felt that they would have to get another 50%.  (As of this writing, they were approaching 70,000). He felt that the state would disqualify signatures for almost any reason.  “He advised signers to be careful when signing the petition.  “If there is a smudge mark, if there is a coffee stain on the sheet, then everything that is on it is disqualified including the signatures of everyone else who signed that petition sheet.

Local folks who still wish to sign that petition and make a statement, in spite of the Governor’s action on October 2, should do so today or tomorrow, if possible.  They are available at Dave’s Sporting Goods, Cheshire Sporting Goods, South County Arms, Webster Electric in Lanesborough and most local sportsmen’s clubs.

Goose, bear hunting seasons start next week

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The Early Canada Goose Hunting Season (statewide) begins on Monday, September 2 and runs through September 21.  For Early Canada Goose season only, hunting hours are 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.  The daily bag limit is 15 and the possession limit is 45.  The reason for this early season and the large numbers of geese allowed to be taken is to reduce the large local resident population that is befouling our lawns and beaches.

There are many regulations regarding goose hunting and your attention is directed to the 2024 – 2025 Season Dates & Bag Limit provided at https://www.mass.gov/doc/2024-2025-migratory-game-bird-regulations.

 

Also, the Early Black Bear Hunting Season opens statewide on Tuesday, September 3 and runs through September 21. Those hunting hours are also 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.  There are no blaze orange requirements during this season.  Hunting implements allowed during this season are rifles, revolvers, muzzleloaders and archery equipment.  There are also many regulations governing bear hunting as noted on pages 30 and 31 of the Massachusetts Fishing and Hunting laws (commonly referred to as the abstracts).

Please remember:  It is unlawful for hunters to intentionally, or knowingly leave a wounded or dead game animal in the field or the forest without making a reasonable effort to retrieve and use it. Each retrieved animal shall be retained or transferred to another until processed or used for food, pelt, feathers, or taxidermy. This does not apply to animals unfit for consumption or use—animals and their parts that are damaged, destroyed, decayed, rotting, diseased, or infected.

Also remember that no hunting is allowed on Sundays in Massachusetts.

Here’s wishing you safe and successful hunts.

DFG announces 5-year strategic plan

The Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG) recently announced the release of a five-year strategic plan, Connections: Working Together for Nature to guide the agency’s work from 2025-2030. The plan establishes a vision for the Department, focusing on solutions at the intersection of biodiversity, climate change, and environmental justice while advancing the priorities of the Healey-Driscoll Administration and Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. It ties into goals laid out by Governor Healey’s Executive Order 618, which ordered the DFG to review all executive departments’ biodiversity efforts and lay out biodiversity goals for 2030, 2040 and 2050, as well as strategies to reach them.

The strategic plan was created collaboratively across DFG’s four Divisions—Division of Ecological Restoration (DER), Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (MassWildlife), Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF), and Office of Fishing & Boating Access and with input from the Fisheries & Wildlife Board and Marine Fisheries Advisory Commission.

The Department has identified key priority biodiversity conservation goals. It will double the pace of land protection, working to protect an average of 6,000 acres per year, to support the state’s goal of conserving 40 percent of Massachusetts land by 2050. Additionally, the Department will complete five landscape-scale conservation projects, expand river and wetland restoration efforts, promote carbon storage and sequestration, and develop decarbonization and resilience plans for all facilities.

It will also work to meaningfully connect with environmental justice and Indigenous communities by creating new inclusive recreation opportunities for underserved and environmental justice communities, increasing accessibility and use of Department programs, facilities, and resources, and improving language access. It will foster respectful, mutually beneficial partnerships with Indigenous peoples and collaborate with Tribes to identify resources they may wish to access for traditional and cultural uses. Finally, it will increase food security by expanding venison donations, connecting environmental justice communities with fresh, local seafood, and increasing harmful Algal Bloom monitoring by 25% to ensure sustainable shellfish harvest.

You can read the 64-page strategic plan at https://www.mass.gov/doc/dfg-strategic-plan-1/download.

“This plan reflects our agency’s commitment to respond with urgency to the most pressing challenges of today: unprecedented biodiversity loss, the climate crisis, and persistent environmental injustice,” said DFG’s Commissioner Tom O’Shea. “By aligning our efforts, this plan will allow our Department to rise to these challenges, expand our impact, and above all, better serve the people of Massachusetts.”  “Since its inception, DFG has been dedicated to conserving fish and wildlife for the benefit of all people. While the Department maintains its commitment to conserve fish and wildlife and continue the long traditions of hunting, fishing, boating, and other outdoor recreation, this strategic plan outlines priority areas for growth and expansion.”

“DER is proud to be a part of this groundbreaking plan for the next five years. Climate change is bringing significant challenges to our communities: extreme weather, increased precipitation, and catastrophic flooding.” said DER Director Beth Lambert. “We are excited to scale up our river and wetland restoration efforts to help people and nature adapt—increasing capacity at the local level and leveraging new and existing partnerships to expand our impact.”

“The DFG’s Strategic Plan is an important first step that clearly lays out for the public what the Department’s and MassWildlife’s key priorities are, including but not limited to biodiversity and landscape-scale conservation through partnerships, land protection, habitat restoration and management, expanding fishing and hunting opportunities, access to nature and wildlife for all to enjoy, and expanding “Hunters Share the Harvest” to help address food security needs in the Commonwealth.” said MassWildlife Director Mark S. Tisa.

“The Fisheries and Wildlife Board is proud to support MassWildlife’s comprehensive mandate to ensure the conservation of the Commonwealth’s natural resources for the use and enjoyment of all people. The Board appreciated the opportunity to engage during the development of the DFG’s Strategic Plan and applauds the plan’s commitments to expanding access to outdoor recreation through learn-to-fish and -hunt programs, connecting people to nature with wildlife education programs, and to environmental justice across all programs,” said Stephen Sears, Chair of the Fisheries and Wildlife Board.

15th Annual Berkshire Biodiversity Day Brings Community Together to Survey Local Species

 

Celebrating local biodiversity during a time of unprecedented global biodiversity loss, the 15th Annual Berkshire Biodiversity Day (also known as Berkshire BioBlitz) welcomes community members of all ages to join biologists, naturalists, and environmentalists to identify as many plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms as possible during a 24-hour period.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place from noon on Friday, September 13, to noon on Saturday, September 14, at the Berkshire Community College campus, 1350 West St, Pittsfield. Participants may take part at any time during this period to record a survey of their findings and experience first-hand the importance of a healthy, active ecosystem in their community.

This year’s program promises to be an engaging experience for all nature enthusiasts. The schedule is packed with guided walks, presentations, and demonstrations led by experts. Presentation topics include native plants as insect habitat from Charley Eiseman, moths and how to observe them from Carla Rhodes, lichen from Kay Hurley, and arthropods from Bryan “Professor Bugman” Man.

Professor Tom Tyning will lead an amphibian, reptile, and small mammal walk that will involve checking under cover boards—a common surveying method used by herpetologists. Rene Wendell from Hoffmann Bird Club will lead an owl prowl, and Matthew Rymkiewicz will lead a demo on how to “lightsheet” for moths. Ben Nickley of Berkshire Bird Observatory will also conduct a bird banding demonstration. Visit www.berkshirebioblitz.org to find a detailed schedule of the 24-hour program.

 

All attendees should meet in the lobby of the Koussevitzky Arts Center on BCC’s campus. Biological surveys and expert-led walks will be conducted on BCC’s campus, which spans 180+ acres and boasts a diverse range of habitats, including meadows, forests, and wetlands. Presentations will take place in the K-111 Auditorium.

The 15th Annual Berkshire Biodiversity Day is organized and sponsored by Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT) and Nature Academy of the Berkshires. It’s co-sponsored by Berkshire Community College, Greylock Federal Credit Union, and Panera.

To learn more about this 24-hour biological survey and the scheduled activities, visit www.berkshirebioblitz.org or email team@thebeatnews.org.

 

Deb Lipa has retired

 

Congratulations to Debra ‘Deb’ Lipa who retired this past Friday from her position as clerk at the DFW Western District Headquarters in Dalton.  And many thanks for providing us those local trout stocking reports.  We know and appreciate the added work, involved that was required to get that information to us.

 

For the last 10 years she was the pleasant lady who greeted us upon entering the headquarters.

 

Here’s wishing Deb a long, happy and healthy retirement.

Nice day spent on the banks of the Hoosic River

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On Saturday, August 17, Riverfest took place at the Spruces Park along the Hoosic river in Williamstown.  It was an opportunity to learn about and celebrate the Hoosic River watershed.

Various organizations were represented there.  We had a chance to meet Audrey Werner, Hoffmann Bird Club Communications Officer, and club member Katharine Weinke.  They provided information on the Club’s exciting event summary for 2024-2025.   Sighted on their Guided Bird Walk along the river, were the following: osprey carrying a fish, cormorant, mourning dove, American robin, eastern bluebirds, American goldfinch, chipping sparrow, song sparrow, tufted titmouse, black capped chickadee, white breasted nuthatch, flickers and a phoebe.

Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited representatives were there.  TU Board member Marc Hoechstetter taught fly casting while Dr Charles Wohl taught fly tying.  Board member Rosanne Mistretta and Betsy Clark conducted the Kid-friendly Macroinvertebrate Workshop.  In the river they found Mayfly larvae, Crayfish, Stonefly Larvae, several types of Caddisfly larvae, Water Penny beetles, Midge larvae and Damselfly larvae.

Representatives of The Hoosic River Watershed Association (HooRWA) were there.  It is their citizens’ group that looks after the river.  It is dedicated to the restoration, conservation and enjoyment of the Hoosic River and its watershed, through education, research and advocacy.  It envisions a watershed that is ecologically sound and adds to the quality of life of its residents.  Board members explained the water quality monitoring work in which they are involved.

Judy Grinnell and representatives of the Hoosic River Revival (HRR) were there.  HRR is a volunteer organization dedicated to transforming the aging Hoosic River flood chutes using leading-edge engineering and naturalization measures to reduce flood risk and enhance climate resilience. It envisions an attractive, accessible, healthy, flood-controlled river, which will enhance downtown North Adams and the quality of life for all residents, businesses, and visitors. HRR will accomplish this through advocacy, education, and action in partnership with the City and other stakeholders.

Arriana Collins from HooRWA led the Wild Edibles walk.

A MCLA student and HooRWA intern showed how the water quality testing is performed

There was a River-Inspired Group Sing-Along with Singer/Songwriter Deborah Burns. According to TU President Justin Adkins, there were roughly 20 people singing their hearts out in celebration to the river.

All in all, it was a very pleasant day.

Zebra Mussels found in Onota Lake

In case you missed the article in the Berkshire Eagle on Monday, August 19 entitled “Zebra mussels found in Onota Lake” here is the following:  “The Department of Conservation and Recreation spotted the invasive freshwater mollusks during one of its routine checks of the lake for invasive species, according to a press release issued by Catherine Van-Bramer, the city’s administrative services director.  “This detection only impacts boating operations at the lake and has no impact to other recreational uses of the lake.” according to the release.

 

“In an effort to stop the spread of zebra mussels to other bodies of water, boaters are asked to inspect their boats, trailers and other recreational equipment. They should also decontaminate all parts of their boat, paddles, and other equipment that have been in contact with water. When doing so, they should not allow wash water to flow in any water body or storm sewer.”

 

Surely in the upcoming days, more information will be provided about what part of the lake they were located, the probable causes of their spread, various methods to control or eliminate their spread, possibly a boat cleaning station, etc.

 

Incidentally, water outflow from Onota Lake begins the western branch of the Housatonic River in Pittsfield.  I guess one can expect to see Zebra Mussels show up in Woods Pond in Lenox any time now, if not already.

 

 Surplus Antlerless Deer Permits for sale in September

By now Massachusetts deer hunters should know if they were selected to receive an antlerless deer permit (ADP), also known as a doe permit.  If not, they can simply click onto the MassFishHunt web page to find out.  If selected, Massachusetts residents must pay a $10.00 fee (non-resident pay $20.00) to purchase the permit.

It’s a lottery system, and not every hunter who wanted one in the wildlife management zone of their choice got one.  The difference between allocation and demand determines the odds of winning an ADP. The exceptions are those who applied for permits in Zones 10, 11, 13, and 14 where everyone who applied got one.  There are too many deer in those zones and MassWildlife is trying to reduce the herd to desirable numbers where there is sufficient food and habitat to sustain them.

There still is a chance to get a permit.  Surplus Antlerless Deer Permits (ADP) will go on sale in late September.

On September 24 at 9:00 a.m. surplus ADPs in zones 9, 10, 11, 13, and 14 go on sale. Zone 9 are first-come, first-served and limited to 1 permit per day.  Zones 10, 11, 13, and 14 have no daily or season purchase limit and are available for purchase throughout the entire 2024 season.

On Wednesday, September 25 at 9:00 a.m. surplus ADPs in zones 3, 7, 8, and 12 go on sale. Zones 3, 7, 8, and 12 are first-come, first-served and limited to 1 permit per zone per day.
The following is a list of surplus ADP’s by Zones:  Zone 3 – 567, Zone 7 – 1,331, Zone 8 – 547, Zone 9 – 4,503, and Zone 12 – 446.  There are unlimited surpluses for Zones 10, 11, 13 and 14.

Reimbursement for free licenses

By State mandatory, resident sporting licenses (age 70 and older) and resident and non-resident sporting license for paraplegics are free.  The cost of this freebie is about $1 million which the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife must bear annually.  They recently received some good news.  The Budget Conference Committee included language to reimburse its Inland Fisheries and Game Fund this year, and the Governor retained it when she signed the budget into law. This marks the fourth year they have been successful in getting this language included. They hope to make the statutory fix so they do not need to do this each budget cycle.

 

Stepping down

 

I will be stepping down from writing this column at the end of this year.    Simply put, I am not as sharp as I used to be and am slowing down.  Because of that, much more time is required to research, compose, and proofread the proposed articles.  It is also getting to be more difficult attending meetings where useful information is gathered for this column.

 

I’m amazed how President Joe Biden, who is 12 days younger than me, can lead the free world, while I have problems meeting the weekly deadlines for this column.  It is what it is.

 

For some time, I have been planning on stepping down and brought this subject up with Berkshire Eagle Executive Editor Kevin Moran last summer.  I originally thought about retiring after my 1,000th column, but here I am writing this 1,071st column.  Then I planned on retiring on my 80th birthday which was in November 2022, but I’m still here. Then I set the drop-dead retirement date on my 20th anniversary of writing this column. That was last February.  Its time for me to stop procrastinating.

 

In another meeting with Kevin this summer, he suggested that I mention retiring around this time.  In that way, it would give the folks at the Eagle time to seek out another columnist and thus avoid a gap.  That made sense.  Older readers may recall, when my predecessor Ted Giddings retired at the end of 2003, there wasn’t a replacement until February 2004.  It was an excruciating time for us who had become accustomed to reading Ted’s weekly column with our Sunday morning cup of coffee.  That cup of coffee just didn’t taste as good without reading the words of that magnificent scribbler.  Little did I know at the time that his replacement would be me.

 

Kevin’s suggestion appealed to me in another way, too.  It implied that there would continue to be a Berkshire Eagle outdoor sports column in the future.

 

Hopefully, the Eagle is successful in finding someone to continue writing about our beautiful woods and waters.

 

 

 

 

Antlerless deer permits remain unchanged this year

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While giving his annual deer report to the June 18 MA Fish & Game Board Meeting, DFW Deer & Moose Project Leader Martin Feehan recommended no changes in the number of antlerless permits to be issued in 2024.  The number are the same as they were was in 2022 and 2023. Also, there have been no changes in the permit numbers in the individual wildlife management zones.  The allocated permits are as follows:

Zone 1 – 800 allocations, Zone 2 – 400, Zone 3 – 2,050, Zone 4N – 800, Zone 4S – 600, Zone 5 – 1,950, Zone 6 – 400, Zone 7 – 3,000, Zone 8 – 3,100, Zone 9 – 7,200, Zones 10 and 11 – no cap, Zone 12 – 1,350, Zones 13 and 14 no cap.

Note, Zones 1 through 4 are the zones in our area:

Once again zones 10, 11, 13 and 14, in the eastern part of the state, have no caps on antlerless permits as they are still having troubles getting the deer population down to targeted deer densities.

Antlerless deer tags are allocated by zone based on population goals in that zone. Most hunters apply for their permit when they purchase their Massachusetts hunting license, but you can also apply online by going to MassFishHunt or in person by going to one of the MassWildlife District Offices or the MassWildlife Field Headquarters in Westborough.

The deadline for applying for an antlerless permit is July 16.  If you apply, you still must check to see if you have been awarded the right to purchase the permit.

The award period begins August 1 at 8:00 am and ends on December 31. Your odds of obtaining a permit are the same regardless of when you check your permit status. You can check the status through MassFishHunt or by visiting a MassWildlife office or license agent location. There is no fee for the application, but those who are successful are required to pay a $10 fee.

Feehan also recapped some new proposed dealing with controlling the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease  (a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy affecting deer. It is in a family of diseases thought to be caused by misfolded proteins called prions and include similar diseases such as mad cow disease in cattle, Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease in humans and scrapie in sheep.)  One proposal is to set a sunset (phasing out) of Massachusetts facilities that raise captive deer.  Another deals with expanding the deer deboning requirements.

Feehan further recapped proposed regulations that: 1) clarify that food plots are legal to hunt, 2) authorize deer decoys during archery season, 3) remove the daily antlerless bag limit, 4) authorize the youth deer permit for all season long, 5) exempt shed hunting from possession permit requirements and 6) create a winter primitive deer hunting season for the month of  January in Wildlife Management Zones 13 and 14 (Martha’s Vineyard, Elizabeth Islands and Nantucket).

After considerable discussions, the Board approved moving the proposals forward to public meeting.

The specific verbiage for these proposals was not made available during the Board Meeting, and I am not able to expand further on them.  I’m sure we will be hearing a lot more about them in the near future.

“It’s not the fishermen, but the fly”

Recently, I received the following email.

“A few weeks back, on a beautiful June evening, I was standing knee deep in a local river.   Earlier, I had landed a couple decent browns; however, there were long dry spells in between.   The fish were rising but no takers.  This fellow fishing below me seemed to be hooking up on every other cast.   In the fading light, with fish rising all around me, the fellow waded up to me and offered me his rod, taking mine in turn.  I accepted the offer.  Miraculously, I proceeded to land a nice brown followed very quickly by another and another and another.  When it became too dark to see, the count had reached 5.  I turned to the fellow, handed back his rod and thanked him.  It was then I added, “It’s not the fishermen, but the fly.”

 

Kind of a weird email, right?  What’s that all about? Gosh, that event seemed so familiar…like I experienced the same thing, …almost like an out-of-body experience.  Then it dawned on me.  The person in that story is me!  The fellow who offered me the use of his rod and fly is a good friend and he actually wrote the article.  He asked that if I included the story in this column, not use his name.  “It will be our secret” he wrote, “as it is one of my most cherished memories fishing with a very special person.”

 

Aw, shucks.

 

Actually, it probably was the fisherman.  A good fisherman not only knows the right fly to select, the size, color, the type of waters, the time to use it, etc. The other fisherman knew all that, I didn’t.

 

Thank you for that experience, my friend, and I won’t forget it either.

 

Report fish kills

Even though the vast majority of summer fish kills are natural events, to ensure there is not a pollution problem, MassWildlife advises us to a report all fish kills in lakes and ponds by calling the Environmental Police Radio Room at 1 (800) 632-8075

Natural fish kills are most often caused by low oxygen levels, fish diseases, or spawning stress. Depletion of dissolved oxygen is also a common cause. Water holds less dissolved oxygen at higher temperatures, and in shallower or weedier ponds, levels can drop further as plants consume oxygen at night. Fish spawning, including sunfish and bass spawning, occurs in late spring and early summer in shallow waters near shorelines. These densely-crowded areas can grow more susceptible to disease outbreaks as water temperatures rise. The result is an unavoidable natural fish kill, often consisting of only one or two species of fish.

Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Fishing Club derby

On June 8, the Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Club held a fishing derby at Reynolds Pond in Cheshire.  According to club spokesperson Sandra Bushey, no one caught any of the 3 tagged trout.  Nevertheless, the 8 kids who participated still had a great time.

Steve Bateman was there. ”Since putting on the (Jimmy Fund) derby, I really don’t get any fishing in prior to it.” said Steve, “ I only went out twice, once it was 36°. I recently got to take my nephew Christopher ‘Bub’ Bateman.” (Bub or Bubby is his family name) “He’s a nine year old student at Egremont School in Pittsfield. He has never caught a fish by himself until today at the Children’s Fishing Derby sponsored by the Pittsfield Sportsmen’s Club. I couldn’t be more proud of him. The way he cast, set the hook and brought the fish in. We still need to work on taking them off the hook, but I’m sure we’ll have that mastered in no time.”

“He caught his first fish, a rainbow trout then he caught other very nice brook trout. We kept three of them for his mom. It was a great experience for him.  A big thank you to Dave Pemble and the rest of the crew of the Pittsfield Sportsmen’ Club for putting this event on.”

picture provided by gene chague

Ah, its good to see Steve just being an uncle and taking his nephew to a fishing derby without having the headaches and responsibility of overseeing a big event such as the Bateman Jimmy Fund Derby.

Good dogs, good food  

On June 8, a SPO (Small Pack Option) Derby was held at the Berkshire Beagle Club on hares and cottontail rabbits.   It was a one-day trial for dogs under 2 years old.  Two classes were run, 13-inch and 15-inch., both classes combined males and females.  Some thirty-two dogs in all were registered, nineteen 15” and thirteen 13”.

 

The winners were as follows:  Zachary Johnson from Salem, NY took top honors in the 13” combined class, and Tony Roderick from Deighton, MA took top honors in the 15” combined class.

 

Berkshire Beagle Club member Bryon Faulkner took 2nd and 3rd places with his dogs 5 Pine Swamp’s Little Blue Ruby and Swamp’s Lunar Eclipse.

picture provided by gene chague

Coffee, juice and donuts were served in the morning.  Wild turkey club sandwiches and rabbit pot pie gravy over biscuits for lunch.  Umm, umm.

Beagle Club Field Trials proved successful despite recent storm damage

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Last weekend the Berkshire Beagle Club held its Small Pack Option (SPO) Licensed spring field trials.  According to Club spokesman Jeffrey St John, they had 97 entries for the weekend.  The popularity of the beagle club’s field trials is self-evident.  Just look at the distances from whence the winning dog owners came.

 

“The air was filled with sounds of beagles on the chase all weekend,” said St John, “Judges were busy as they worked to come up with the winners”.

Chris Wilser, Trial Chairperson received many compliments from judges and the gallery on the condition of the grounds, participation from the members and the venue at the club house.  Nice compliments when one considers the condition of the 86-acre grounds just a couple of weeks earlier.  Wind damage brought down trees all over the grounds which in turn brought down fences (including electric fences) which keep the bunnies on the property.  On property rabbit breeding pen fencing also sustained damages.  Club members volunteered many days of hard work repairing the damage in order to have the grounds ready for the field trial.

On Saturday, April 20 there were 37 male entries.  The winner in the 13” class was Duda’s Sock it to Them Santino, owned by Salvatore Amato of McAlisterville, PA.

 

The winner of the 15” class was Easy Streets Black Momba, owned by Amanda and Justin Dean from Shushan, NY, (former members of the Berkshire Beagle Club).    Special congratulations to the Deans because, pending AKC approval, Momba will attain Field Champion Gun Dog Status.  To obtain that status a dog must have 3 field trial wins and 120 points.   There is a complicated formula in determining points which I will not attempt to explain in this column. Field Champion Gun Dog Status qualifies entry into any national trial, large pack and small pack. (More explanation follows below).

 

On Sunday April 21, there were 60 female entries.  Winner of the 13” class was Garra, owned by Mirsad Ferhatouic from Utica, NY. The winner of the 15” class was Cold River Tessa, owned by Keith and Addison Brick from North Concord, VT.

 

A little history:  In the 1970’s, The American Kennel Club, determined that a need existed for a real gundog, or hunting beagle field trial. They did not believe that the Large Pack was the most acceptable method to pursue the cottontail rabbit. Instead, they chose to use a running standard that was already in the AKC Rules.

This was the Small Pack in which hounds were run on rabbits in packs of from three to seven hounds, with the judges selecting the outstanding performers to be run in a second series and then finally in a Winners Pack. To prove beyond a doubt that they were competing with “hunting beagles,” the AKC permitted the additional testing of their hounds for gun-shyness and searching ability in what became known as the Small Pack Option.

Local trout stockings

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked last week by MassWildlife, subject to change due to unforeseen conditions: Buck River in Sandisfield, Chickley River in Charlemont and Hawley, Clam River in Sandisfield, Clesson Brook in Ashfield and Buckland, Clesson Brook (Upper Branch) in Ashfield, Cold River in Charlemont and Florida, Green River North in New Ashford, Green River South in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington, Greenwater Pond in Becket, Hemlock Brook in Williamstown, Hoosic River South Branch in Adams and Cheshire, Housatonic River (C&R) in Lee and Stockbridge, Housatonic River East Branch in Hinsdale and Dalton, Hubbard River in Granville and Tolland, Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlborough, Pontoosuc Lake, South River in Ashfield, Wahconah Falls Brook in Dalton, Windsor Brook in Windsor and Hinsdale, and Windsor Lake in North Adams.

Kids fishing derby and more at the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery

Next Saturday, May 11, the Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery Board invites you to join them for a free pancake breakfast to kick off derby day at 7:30 am, at the hatchery, 240 Hatchery Road, New Marlborough, MA.  Board member Dean Hutson suggests you fill up on delicious pancakes before heading down to the Derby Pond for some exciting fishing action.

At 9:00 am, the derby (for kids ages 13 and under), kicks off with even more tagged fish added to the pond, guaranteeing an exhilarating fishing experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to win great prizes and snag one of their exclusive derby t-shirts. The derby ends at 10:30 am.

Hutson also invites you to check out their raffle for a Traeger smoker grill on display and to browse through a variety of items for sale under the tent, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, water bottles, and car stickers.

Hutson promises a fantastic day of fishing, fun, and delicious food.

Incidentally, the April 20 Fly Tying/Fly Casting class which was held at the Hatchery was quite  a memorable experience for a couple of attendees.  That morning, two newcomers to fly fishing attended and learned how to tie a trout fly in the fly tying class.  Following that, they were taught how to fly cast. Then they proceeded to the Hatchery Derby Pool, learned how to attach the fly to the line and, guess what, both caught a rainbow trout.  Is that cool or what?

Free Fishing Derby for Youths

The City of Pittsfield Conservation Commission has announced that they and Lyon Aviation will sponsor a Free Fishing Derby (rain or shine) for youths aged 14 and under next Saturday, May 11 at the Wild Acres Conservation which is located off of South Mountain Road in Pittsfield next to the airport.  The accessible trail down to the pond is now open.

Volunteer support will be provided by the Onota Fishing Club to assist with dressing fish, providing fishing tips and techniques, baiting, etc. Bait will be provided. The derby will run from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm. Trophies will be awarded at 12:00 pm to those who caught the largest fish (length & weight).

The first 100 kids will receive a free food voucher. Food will also be available for purchase from Ozzie’s Steak & Eggs.

For more information, contact Maddy Brown, Recreation & Special Events Coordinator, at (413) 499-9371.

Fishing Derby on Stockbridge Bowl

The Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is sponsoring its annual Spring Fishing Derby on Sunday, May 19 at the Stockbridge Bowl Boat Ramp.  It will run from dawn until 1:00 pm. Cash prizes of $10.000 will be awarded to the lucky anglers who catch the heaviest trout or salmon, pickerel, bass and bullhead.  There will be free lures for all kids 12 and under.  The pre-registration fee is $15.00 and post-registration is $20.00.

Food and drinks will be available.

Tickets are available at:  Minkler Insurance Agency at 31 Main Street, Stockbridge or (w) 413-644-3590, (h) 413-298-4630 or contact any club member.  Official rules may be picked up at the boat ramp.

Proof of fishing license is required

Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) Officer Tara Carlow wants fishermen to remember to have a paper copy or a screen shot/picture of their fishing license available for MEP Officers or landowners to check.  Personally, last week she checked eight fly-fishermen on the Deerfield River and five of them could not produce a license for her, due to the cellular coverage in that area.  Two of them were commercial float guides and after checking when she got back in service, two of the five did not have licenses at all.    One was a fishing guide.  (Ooh!  That’s a good way to lose a guiding license).

MEP has one dispatch center, sometimes with one dispatcher working, for the entire state.  They also handle traffic for their busy coastal missions.  They cannot be continually running fishing licenses, and tying up the radio for fishermen who are supposed to have a legible copy on their person.  The civil fine for not being able to display your license is $120. She is working with club presidents to help get the word out to the fishing community.  It may seem like a minor problem, but for her to check five people in a row with the same violation, is not minor and something has to change.

Conte banquet honors five

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A nice crowd attended the Silvio O. Conte Awards Banquet which was held at the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club recently to honor the Berkshire County League of Sportsmen (BCLS) 2023 award winners.  Past BCLS President, Mark Jester, did a wonderful job as emcee.

After a delicious meal, Mark introduced DFW Director Mark Tisa.  Describing it as a great organization, Mark has worked for the DFW for 37 years working his way up the ladder. He considered it a great privilege.  He recognized Fish & Wildlife Board Chairman Steve Sears, of Dalton, for doing such a great job representing the Western District and bringing all of our interests and concerns to the Board.  He introduced new Deputy Director Eve Schluter.  He recognized DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden and his staff. He also recognized BCLS President Wayne McLain, who was the first person to step up and support Mark’s new youth pheasant hunt program.

He commented that the Division is working hard to continue to create more opportunities for us to enjoy the outdoors such as fishing and hunting. Their job is taking care of the wildlife so that we can enjoy it.

Mark Jester introduced Wayne Adams from the Massachusetts Conservation Alliance who discussed current gun legislation and its work getting more representation at the Statehouse.

Mark Jester then proceeded with the various Silvio O. Conte 2023 Sportsmen Awards.

From left to right: Mark Jester, Emcee, Stacy Sylvester, Leanda Fontaine, Michelle Amburn, James Loughman and Ted Pointek

The John Zuber Award was presented to Rick French of Phillipston, MA. for his efforts in the paraplegic hunts and promoting the outdoors.  Because Rick could not attend (out west hunting), Stacie Sylvester who herself participated for some 35 years with Rick’s paraplegic hunts, accepted the award on his behalf. In her acceptance speech she noted that Rich was very proud to receive the award.

The Sportsmen’s Appreciation Award was presented to James Loughman of Adams for his dedication to the sportsmen of Massachusetts and his commitment and leadership in preserving and promoting the rich traditions of sportsmen.  He will ever be appreciated and remembered for all his efforts. In his acceptance speech he thanked groups like the BCLS, the Adams Outdoor for Youth and the Cheshire Rod & Gun Club for instilling the love of the outdoors to the next generation.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Ted Pointek of Housatonic for his unwavering commitment to and promotion of the shooting sports especially for the future generations.  In his acceptance speech, he recognized all those who helped him in the shooting events over the years.

The late Richard “Rick” Theilig of Lee was posthumously awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award for his dedication and passion for the outdoors, and who will forever inspire future generations. His daughter Michelle Amburn accepted the award on his behalf.  He would probably say he doesn’t deserve it, said Michelle, but he does.  He wanted to teach everyone.  He loved what he did and made lifelong friends in doing so.  LSA club member John Polastri also presented her another plaque from the Lee Sportsmen’s Association.

Leanda Fontaine of Bernardston, MA was selected the Sportsperson of the Year. Her plaque read, “Her lifelong dedication and preservation of the rich natural resources of our state will forever benefit the citizens, habitat, and wildlife of Massachusetts”.  In her acceptance speech, she said she was extremely humbled and honored to be chosen.  She started in MassWildlife in 2005 working as a fishing technician working with district and hatchery staff.  She worked with DFW district staff from the NY border all the way to Cape Cod.  She had the opportunity to work on different projects, not just fisheries but wildlife, natural heritage, land projects, etc. She worked with multiple state organizations and nonprofits which provided great opportunities to work on different projects.  She mentioned the DFW employees’ passion and drive to do what they can for our resources, outdoor sportspeople and the environment.  She mentioned the great mentorship received from the DFW employees regarding hunting, fishing, etc.  She considered herself very lucky to work in the Western District – its become like family to her.

Youth trout stocking day was another huge success

Approximately 200 kids, parents and grandparents met on Wednesday afternoon, April 17, at the Onota Lake Burbank Park to help MassWildlife liberate some 550 rainbow trout which averaged 14 inches.

Mark Jester with grandsons Sam and Joe Maschino

MassWildlife Western District Aquatic Biologist Leanda Fontaine was assisted by DFW staff including Heather Sadler, Kalina Flood, Colby Kellogg-Youndt, and Jacob Morris-Siegel. Leanda’s daughter Isla also helped.  An iBerkshire.Com photographer was there as well as a newsperson from Spectrum TV Channel 1. Environmental Police Lt. Tara Carlow was there also to make sure everyone behaved. The weather cooperated nicely this day.

Prior to beginning the stocking, Leanda made some introductory comments.  She informed everyone about the agency and how it is charged with the responsibility of preserving, conserving and managing our flora and fauna all across the state.  She named the 5 regional districts across the state and how they perform their functions. The Western District covers all of the Berkshires as well as the western towns of Hampshire, Hampton and Franklin Counties.

One of their main jobs of the Western District Office is trout stocking, which they do for about 10 weeks in the spring and two weeks in the fall. This spring they expect to stock 80,0000 trout.  Statewide, some 450,000 are expected to be stocked.

They stock four different species, brook, brown, rainbow and tiger trout which is a hybrid between brown and brook trout.  They stock 72 local bodies in the Western District up to Memorial Day. To find out where they stock, go to the MassWildlife web site Mass.gov/trout.  She encouraged people to catch and eat the fish but if people prefer to catch and release them, that is fine too.

Then she explained how the stocking would take place.  They formed a line, a few trout were netted out of the tanker truck, put into empty 5-gallon pails which were handed to the kids and away they sped to the water’s edge and tossed the fish out, and then they ran back and did it all over again.  Oh! The expressions of joy and amazement on the faces of those kids.

I am happy to report that there were no buckets tossed into the lake and there was a 100% survival rate of the fish.

Local trout stockings

 

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked last week by MassWildlife:  Beartown Brook in Lee, Bronson Brook in Worthington, Deerfield River in Buckland, Florida and Charlemont , Depot Brook in Washington, Dry Brook in Cheshire and Adams, Factory Brook in Middlefield, Farmington River in Otis and Sandisfield, Hoosic River North in Clarksburg and North Adams, Hop Brook in Lee and Tyringham, Housatonic River (SW) in Pittsfield, Hubbard River in Granville, Littleville Reservoir in Chester, North Pond in Florida, Sackett Brook in Dalton and Pittsfield, South Brook in Cheshire, Town Brook in Lanesborough, Trout Brook in Peru, Walker Brook in Becket, West Brook in Great Barrington, Westfield River Middle Branch in Chester, Huntington and Middlefield, Windsor Lake in North Adams, Windsor Pond in Windsor and Yokum Brook in Becket.

Spring Turkey Hunting Seasons opens Monday

 

The 2024 Massachusetts spring turkey hunting season opens on Monday, April 29 and runs through May 25.  The Youth Turkey Hunt Day took place today (April 27).

To hunt wild turkeys in Massachusetts, you’ll need a hunting or sporting license as well as a turkey permit. A turkey permit comes with 3 turkey tags. Hunters can take 2 bearded turkeys in the spring and 1 turkey of either sex in the fall. Regulation requires that all hunters place an official green Turkey Safety Sticker on their firearm positioned so it’s visible when sighting down the barrel.  On the youth hunt day only, the hunting hours are ½ hour before sunrise and end at 5:00 pm. For the rest of the turkey hunters, the hours are from ½ hour before sunrise to noon.

Successful hunters must report their turkeys within 48 hours of harvest. The easiest way to report a harvest is online using MassFishHunt, but you can also go to an official check station.

There are a couple of pages of rules and regulations addressing Turkey Hunting in the 2024 regulations (abstracts) and hunters should review them before heading out.

Changes proposed for 2024-2025 Migratory Game Bird Regulations

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A public hearing will be held on Wednesday, April 17 at 2:30 pm., at MassWildlife’s Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Road in Westborough, MA. The hearing will establish rules and regulations relative to the 2024–2025 migratory game bird hunting seasons.

Due to the migratory game bird season filing requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Fisheries and Wildlife Board must vote to finalize and approve the 2024–2025 migratory bird seasons at the close of the hearing. Therefore, there will be no written comment period after this public hearing. Written comments may be submitted prior to the hearing via email to susan.sacco@mass.gov, Subject: Fisheries and Wildlife Board, or by mail to the Fisheries and Wildlife Board, MassWildlife Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough, MA 01581. Written public comments will be accepted until Tuesday, April 16, 2024, 4 p.m.

Interested persons can review the proposed changes and provide written comments prior to the hearing and oral comments during the public-comment portion of the hearing. Here is a summary of the proposed changes:

  • Woodcock Season: October 3 – November 30
  • Youth Waterfowl Hunts: September 21 and October 5
  • Veteran’s Waterfowl Hunts: September 21 and October 5
  • Early Goose Season (statewide): September 2 – September 21
  • Regular Goose Season
    • Berkshire Zone: October 14 – November 16 *
    • Central Zone: October 12 – November 30 and December 17 – January 4
    • Coastal Zone: October 12 – October 19 and November 26 – January 25
  • Late Goose Season
    • Berkshire Zone: December 18 – February 15 *
    • Central Zone: January 16 – February 15
    • North Coastal Zone: January 27 – February 15
  • Duck Season
    • Berkshire Zone: October 14 – November 30 and December 16 – January 4 *
    • Central Zone: October 12 – November 30 and December 17 – January 4
    • Coastal Zone: October 12 – October 19 and November 26 – January 25
  • Falconry Season: October 19 – February 19

Most of the date changes are just by one or two days, however, I wish to point out the following changes:

*The regular goose season for the Berkshire Zone last year ran from October 10 to November 25; then from December 11 to December 14.  Then the Berkshire late goose season ran from January 1 through February 15, 2025. The new proposed dates are from October 14 to November 16 and the late season will run from December 18 through February 15, 2025.

*The Berkshire Duck hunting season last year ran from October 11 to November 25 and December 12 to January 6.  The new proposed season will run from October 14 to November 30 (which is the Saturday after Thanksgiving) and then from December 16 to January 4, 2025.

Local trout stockings

 

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked last week by MassWildlife:   Ashfield Pond in Ashfield, Chickley River in Charlemont and Hawley, Farmington River in Otis, Sandisfield and Tolland; Green River South in Alford, Egremont and Great Barrington; Hoosic River North in Clarksburg and North Adams, Hudson Brook in Clarksburg, North Pond in Florida, Norwich Pond in Huntington, Plunkett Reservoir in Hinsdale, the Williams River in Great Barrington, Pontoosuc Lake and Richmond Pond.

 

Due to the nasty weather last week, the schedule could have changed. The web site at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/trout-stocking-report will contain the most accurate info:

 

Spring break is nearing, help stock the trout

The public is invited to help MassWildlife stock trout during school vacation week. Meet MassWildlife fisheries staff, view trout up close, and learn about places to fish near you.  Join them on Wednesday, April 17 at 12:30 pm at Onota Lake Burbank Park on Lakeway Drive in Pittsfield.

Children stocking trout, picture provided by MassWildlife

A few trout are placed in empty 5-gallon pails and the tots run with them to the lake front and heave the fish out into the water.  According to MA DFW Western District Supervisor Andrew Madden, we needn’t worry about hurting the trout for the sudden splash into the water does them good.  They found, over many years of stocking, that the trout respond better when they are stimulated by a toss into the water. This triggers them to begin swimming right away and speeds up adjustments to any differences in water temperature or flow between the truck environment and the pond or river.

“For the children’s event the fish do great, even though the handling may not always be perfect. These events also provide an opportunity to see and handle fish that many would never experience otherwise. There is no substitute for real life experience to inspire future anglers and conservationists” said Madden.

 

This is quite an enjoyable event, so parents, grandparents be sure to bring your cameras.

 

Kids Fishing Derbies beginning at the Hatchery

The 2024 kids fishing derbies are starting up at the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery.  Put on by the Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery, they will run the second Saturday of each month beginning in April and running through September.  The first derby will be next Saturday, April 13 at the Hatchery’s Derby Pond. It will start at 9:00 and run to 10:30 am. What a great opportunity for kids ages 13 and under to learn how to fish while competing for prizes.

Board member Dean Hutson promises an action-packed day with lots of exciting activities: New derby shirts for the kids, tagged fish in the pond with thrilling prizes and new merchandise available for sale.  No child goes away empty handed.

But wait, there’s more. The Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery are thrilled to reintroduce Fly Casting on Saturday April 20, following its Fly Tying class.   Hutson encourages you to, “Dive into the art of fly tying at 10:00 am, and then cast your creations into Derby Pond around 11:30 am! It’s a double-header you won’t want to miss!”

 

Don’t forget to bring eye protection  (sunglasses or safety glasses) for a safe and enjoyable casting experience.

 

Email them at info@hatcheryfriends.org beforehand, so they can prepare for your presence, specifying if you’re joining the fly tying class, fly casting session, or both.

 

Timberdoodles!

A Senecan Indian myth says God made the woodcock (aka timberdoodle) from the leftover parts of other birds. Large eyes are located along the sides of the bird’s head, allowing it to see in all directions, including directly behind. A long, thin bill that averages nearly three inches in length permits woodcock to probe in soft earth for worms, slugs and other invertebrates. Nostrils lie high against the skull so the woodcock can feed and breathe at the same time. Its ears are located beneath the eyes. Woodcock stand about eight inches tall, appear to bob when they walk, and weigh about a half-pound each.

photo provided by MassWildlife

On Thursday, April 11, from 5:00 to 6:00 pm, you are invited to join a Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) hosted online event with Kayleigh Filkins to learn about Timberdoodle ecology and fun facts as well as a scientific roundup from the Eastern Woodcock Migration Research Cooperative. Kayleigh is a graduate student at SUNY Brockport doing her master’s work on American woodcock habitat selection during the breeding season in New York.

The Zoom link will be emailed to RVSPs on the day of the event. The event will be recorded and shared with RSVPs and on BNRC’s YouTube channel.   For questions contact Mariah at mfogg@bnrc.org.

Beagle Club Field Trials

 

On the April 20 – 21 weekend the Berkshire Beagle Club on Sleepy Hollow Road in Richmond, MA is having its Small Pack Option (SPO) Licensed spring field trials.  Some of the best beagles in the northeast will compete and the best dogs are awarded ribbons for excelling in their natural tracking ability, high desire, quick thinking, and speed and endurance while following the scents of snowshoe hares and/or cottontail bunnies. All dogs are AKC registered.  .For beagle lovers, there’s no finer sound than that of a beagle singing its heart out while following the scent of a bunny.

 

Males will run on Saturday, April 20 and the females on April 21, starting at 8:00 am. They will be judged in the following categories:  13” and 15” males and 13” and 15” females.

The club welcomes folks to come and just listen to the dogs and observe the judges.

 

There will be breakfast and lunch available on both days and probably a 50/50 raffle.

 

Questions:  Chris Wilser (845)489-6554 or Jefferey St. John (413) 441-0744.

 

Tales with Rex

 

On Thursday evening, April 11 at 6:30 pm you are invited to join Rex Channel for a night of an unforgettable “eating , drinking & fishing” trip he recently took to Chile, Argentina & Tierra del Fuego.  Entitled “tales from South America with Rex, it is full of photos and tales and, of course, the people he met along the way.

 

It will be held at the Berkshires Hills Country Club, 500 Benedict Road, Pittsfield.

 

Rex is a valued member of the Taconic Chapter of Trout Unlimited

Massachusetts joins national coalition to promote accessibility and innovation in outdoor recreation 

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The Healey-Driscoll Administration recently joined the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), a national coalition of state governments, non-profits, and businesses to promote the growth of the outdoor recreation economy and outdoor-related activities. The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) joins 12 other state departments and organizations dedicated to fostering the economic development of more than 110,000 outdoor businesses and accessibility of outdoor recreation across the nation. As a member of the coalition, MOOR will convene regularly to identify challenges and solutions through innovative research and collaboratively sharing information on best practices within the field.

“Massachusetts is thrilled to join our industry, academic, and other state partners as a new member of ORR,” said MOOR Director Paul Jahnige. (It) was instrumental in the creation of MOOR and has already provided incredible models and tools for us to use, including advocacy and rural development tools and training.”

“It is an exciting day to bring Massachusetts into the fold as an ORR State Member,” said ORR Vice President of Programs Chris Perkins. “Director Paul Jahnige has wasted no time in developing forward-thinking initiatives to bolster the Bay State’s $11.8 billion outdoor recreation economy, and we are looking forward to supporting the Office’s future development and growth with research and industry partnerships.”

Established in December 2022, MOOR collaborates with agencies to promote activities across the state, including hunting, fishing, horseback riding, paddling, swimming, and more. Outdoor recreation is vital to the Massachusetts economy, contributing $11 billion to the economy, creating over 102,000 jobs, and boosting tourism. MOOR looks forward to collaborating closely with the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable to implement strategic initiatives that drive economic growth, ensure equitable outdoor access for all, and improve public health in Massachusetts.  This announcement follows the hiring of Paul Jahnige as the state’s first Director of Outdoor Recreation

Trout Stockings

 

The following local waters were scheduled to be stocked last week by MassWildlife:  West Branch of Westfield River in Becket, Chester, Middlefield and Huntington; East Branch of Westfield River in Savoy, Windsor, Cummington and Chesterfield; Mainstem of Westfield River in Huntington, Russell and Montgomery; Konkapot River in Monterey and New Marlborough, Laurel Lake, Richmond Pond, Pontoosuc Lake and Windsor Pond in Windsor.

 

How is climate change impacting our Berkshire lakes and ponds? 

On Wednesday, April 3 from 2:30 to 4:30 pm, the Becket Conservation Commission and Becket Lakes & Ponds Association are sponsoring a free program that overviews how climate change is affecting our lakes and ponds, as well as other water resource areas, surrounding environment of trees and plants, and all wildlife that depend on them for their survival. The event will be held in the downstairs Community Room at the Becket Town Hall, 557 Main Street, Becket.

The panelists will be Bruce Winn – Berkshire Community College, Professor of Environmental Life Sciences, Emily Stockman – Stockman Associates, Owner and Senior Scientist and Joe Onorato – Water & Wetland owner Aquatic Specialist.

Refreshments will be provided.

Registration is required. Call Dave Johnson, Becket Conservation Chair: 978-424-5752

or email: CLIMATE PROGRAM or AIAINCDAJ@GMAIL.COM.  A zoom link will be posted on the BCC web page.

 

Basic Hunter Education course

 

Basic hunter education is mandatory for all first-time adult hunters. MassWildlife offers Basic Hunter Education in two formats. Each format covers the same material and students take the same final exam.

Blended: Students complete the online MA hunter study guide before attending one in-person Field Day.

 

In-person (traditional): Students attend an entirely in-person, instructor led course that is offered over multiple days.

 

All courses are free of charge and open to the public.

An in-person course is being offered at the Worthington Rod & Gun, 458 Dingle Rd (Route 112), Worthington, MA.  It will run for 4 nights: Monday, April 15, Tuesday April 16, Thursday April 18 and Friday, April 19.  All classes run from 5:30 to 9:00 pm.

Two blended courses are also being offered nearby:  One is at the Ashfield Rod & Gun Club, 161 North Street Plainfield, MA.  It runs on Saturday, April 6 from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.  The other is at Westfield State University Horace Mann Center, 333 Western Avenue, Westfield, MA.  It runs on Sunday April 17 also from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

To enroll, call 508-389-7830 or click onto:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/basic-hunter-education-course for all the details.

Game dinner coming up

The Annual Popsie Goerlach Dinner is scheduled for Wednesday, April 3 at the Stationery Factory in Dalton. Doors will open at 5:00 and dinner is at 6:00 pm. Last year they had almost 400 people attend and they’re hoping to do that again this year. They have a great menu lined up and some great prizes to give away, including a four-day Illinois Whitetail hunt, a Ravin crossbow, a Bowtech compound bow, and many other prizes. Tickets for the dinner and the raffle can be purchased online at https://www.12thman-goblue.com/2024-game-dinner

Gala event planned

 

On Saturday, April 6, the Lee Sportsmen’s Association/Ducks Unlimited (LSA/DU) 7th Annual Youth Sports Gala will take place at the Country Club in Pittsfield.  There will be raffles and live and silent auctions.  Doors open at 4:00 and dinner served is at 6:00 pm.  Tickets cost $125 per person and can be purchased at leesportsmen.com or mail from Lee Sportsmen’s Association, PO Box 175, Lee, MA.

 

Coles Memorial Ice Fishing Derby results

According to information posted on the Coles Memorial Ice Fishing Derby web page, the derby raised over $1,200 this year for the Goose Pond Boat Ramp project.  It is now complete and there will be a stone with a plaque going in this spring. After that, the original project will be complete, and the committee will be putting their energy towards figuring out what’s next. They thanked everyone who attended, donated and supported the event this year.

The ice fishing derby which started in 2020 is dedicated in Evan Scott Colbert’s memory who passed away in 2019 at the age of 29. He loved the outdoors and spent his leisure time fishing and boating. He could often be seen enjoying the waters of Goose Pond casting his reel while watching the eagles fly above.

Support endangered species at tax time

More than 430 plants and animals are listed under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act. These rare species play an important role in keeping the Commonwealth’s natural communities thriving. You can make a difference by supporting endangered species conservation while filing your taxes this year. Simply look for Line 33A for Endangered Wildlife Conservation on your state tax form and write in any amount. Your meaningful donation will go to the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Fund which is dedicated specifically to the conservation of rare species in the Commonwealth, such as the Shortnose Sturgeon (pictured).

In Massachusetts, Shortnose Sturgeon are currently found in the Connecticut and Merrimack Rivers with historical occurrences in many coastal rivers around Massachusetts.

picture provided by Micah Keefer, USGeological Survey

Shortnose Sturgeon spawn in large freshwater rivers. They migrate from the mouths of rivers, traveling many miles to reach suitable spawning upstream. During non-spawning periods sturgeon often leave freshwater in pursuit of food resources in estuaries or along the coast and migrate between large river systems.  The migration of its population in the Connecticut River is restricted by hydroelectric dams making this population one of the few that lives only in freshwater.

Shortnose sturgeon can live up to 60 years and do not reach reproductive maturity until they are 10–12 years old.  That means their populations are likely slow to recover making them one of the most vulnerable freshwater fish species in Massachusetts

The major threats to this species are river habitat degradation and loss caused by dams, channel dredging, poor water quality, contaminants, fisheries bycatch, and incidental boating strikes.

Hydroelectric dams can alter water flow and sediment patterns impacting spawning success, fragment populations by limiting fish movement, and cause mortality if fish swim too near intake pipes and pass through turbines. Efforts to restore sturgeon migration and reconnect subpopulations are underway in the Connecticut River through the construction of fishways to aid upstream and downstream movement.

It is illegal to possess sturgeon. If you accidentally catch one while fishing, release it as gently and quickly as possible, even if you need to cut the line. Never take the fish out of the water.