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March 2010

Bears and Bird Feeders

If you feed birds and live in northern Middlesex County, Worcester County, or western Massachusetts, it's time to think about removing bird feeders before bears emerge from hibernation. With the snow melting and longer day length, bears will soon be leaving their winter dens. To avoid possible seasonal conflicts between people and bears in central and western Massachusetts, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) is issuing its seasonal reminder that bird feeders should be taken down by mid-March and other preventive steps be taken.

2011 Wildlife Stamp Competitions Now Open

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is asking interested wildlife artists to consider entering one or more of its three 2011wildlife stamp competitions. Each year, MassWildlife issues three wildlife recreation-related stamps: an archery stamp, a primitive firearms stamp, and a waterfowl stamp. Income from the sale of these stamps supports wildlife research as well as the acquisition and management of key habitat areas. All three of the stamps feature artwork selected through competitions open to artists anywhere in the country.

Late Winter Ice Safety Advice

As the winter months come to a close, the variable temperatures experienced in the state in the past week means the condition of ice on the Bay State's waterbodies is unpredictable and could be treacherous. There have already been several reports of people on foot or on snowmobiles falling through ice. Outdoor enthusiasts need to play it safe and check ice carefully before venturing onto ice-covered waters. An ice strength table is posted on the agency website. Clear, blue ice is the strongest ice.

Got Teens? Consider Junior Conservation Camp

It's not too early to start thinking about summer camp for your teenage son or daughter. If you have a teen (or know one) who is interested in the outdoors, likes camping, fishing, canoeing or wants to learn more about these and other outdoor skills, the Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp may be just the right experience. Held at the Chesterfield Scout Reservation in western Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp is a two-week overnight summer camp for girls and boys 13 -17 years of age offering a program of conservation education and instruction in outdoor recreation skills.

Read all of these stories

February 2010

245-Acre Land Acquisition in Wareham and Plymouth

Recently, Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Ian Bowles announced the purchase of 245 acres of land on Red Brook in Wareham and Plymouth that will protect one of the most diverse fish and wildlife habitats in the Commonwealth. The Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG) and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) acquired the land, known as Century Bog, from A.D. Makepeace Company for $3 million. The acquisition - through conservation and ongoing ecological restoration - will protect the Red Brook watershed and protect habitat for 11 rare species, several kinds of fish and other wildlife.

Saltwaer Anglers Must Register in 2010

The Division of Marine Fisheries is alerting saltwater anglers to new saltwater fishing registration requirements that are occurring in 2010 and 2011. A new federal law that took effect January 1, 2010 requires most Massachusetts recreational saltwater fishermen 16 years old and older to register with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) either online via www.countmyfish.noaa.gov or by calling (888) MRIP-411 [(888) 674-7411]. There is no fee for federal registration in 2010. People fishing on saltwater charter or head-boats will not be required to register. Private boat or family registrations are not available. This year, non-residents planning saltwater fishing trips in Massachusetts must possess a saltwater fishing permit from any state or from the federal saltwater registration system.

Trophy Anglers to be Honored February 13, 2010

Anglers of all ages are invited to attend the Division's Freshwater Sportfishing Awards ceremony honoring the 2009 Angler of the Year and the 2009 Gold Pin Winners. The ceremony takes place at the Eastern Fishing and Outdoor Exposition February 13, 2010 at 4:00 PM at the DCU Centre in Worcester where Massachusetts Fish and Game Commissioner Mary Griffin will join with Division Director Wayne MacCallum and other Division staff to present the annual Freshwater Sportfishing Awards. For over 40 years MassWildlife has sponsored the Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Program designed to recognize anglers who have caught exceptional freshwater fish from waterbodies which are open to the public. Bronze pins are sent to anglers who catch fish meeting certain minimum weight requirements for 22 types of fish. Gold pins and a plaque are awarded at the Freshwater Sportfishing Awards ceremony to adult and youth anglers catching the largest fish in 22 species categories. 2009 Gold Pin Award winners.

Midwinter Eagle Survey Results in 71 Birds Reported

Despite snow showers across the state, a survey of wintering bald eagles was conducted throughout the Commonwealth by ground crews on January 8, 2010, and by a helicopter survey of the Quabbin and Connecticut River Valley on January 13, 2010. The eagle survey period ended on January 14, 2010. The preliminary results of these efforts yielded sightings of 71 birds. Last year, a record 81 birds were spotted. Wildlife officials from the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), volunteers, and interested citizens peered through the falling snow to observe birds from the ground and from the air during the event, which is part of an annual national survey. State data are pooled with national data and used by wildlife officials to track the progress of the recovery of the bald eagle.

Read all of these stories and more

December 2009

Results of 2009 Deer Season for Paraplegic Hunters

In late October, 24 hunters participated in a special deer season hunt by paraplegic hunters at four locations in central and western Massachusetts. A total of four deer (two bucks, one button buck and one doe) were taken for an overall success rate of 16%. The hunt is coordinated by the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW), with assistance from state agencies, military personnel, and volunteer sportsmen and women. Hunt locations included Quabbin Park in Belchertown, South Post in Devens, private land in Williamstown, and property in and around Mount Washington State Forest.

Over 10,00 Acres of Wildlife Land Protected in FY 09

Over 10,280 acres of fish and wildlife habitat in 42 towns were protected for wildlife and the public by the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) in the past fiscal year (July 1, 2008 - June 30, 2009). Key wildlife habitats protected through the efforts of MassWildlife and DFG realty staff ranged from 1-acre acquisitions in Pepperell on the Nissitissit River and in Montague on the Saw Mill River to the 4,300-acre conservation easement in Fall River which is held jointly by DFW and the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Endangered Species Program Honored

On November 1, 2009, the New England Wild Flower Society's trustees honored individuals and organizations in New England who have demonstrated creative vision and exceptional achievement in furthering the goals of the Society to conserve native plants and their habitats. The Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) of Massachusetts received the Massachusetts State Award for continuing leadership through an effective multi-faceted data-based effort that supports and implements conservation of rare and endangered species and communities in Massachusetts.

Exotic Pets Illegal in Massachusetts

If you think an exotic animal like a monkey, alligator, or serval would make a great pet or holiday gift, think again. Many people are probably aware of the tragic scenario in Connecticut this year when a pet chimpanzee seriously injured and disfigured the owner's friend. Massachusetts has very strict regulations governing the possession of both native and exotic wildlife by the average citizen. "Many people assume that any animal they can purchase in another state or over the Internet is legal to possess in Massachusetts," said Dr. Tom French, Assistant Director of the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program. "This is simply not true. Our regulations are restrictive to the point that we publish only what you may possess, rather than what you may not. Only museums, nature centers, or educational institutions are granted permits for many kinds of wildlife. The goal of these regulations is to protect both the interests of wildlife and the public."

December Stories

November 2009

Important Archery Deer Season Reminder

Archers hunting deer in Massachusetts are reminded that the closing date for the archery season is Saturday, November 21, 2009. This year, Thanksgiving falls on a "late" date and the usual 6 week archery deer season, which began on October 12, 2009, ends on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Archers may not hunt deer during Thanksgiving week this year (November 23 - 28, 2009). The shotgun season for deer hunting begins Monday, November 30, 2009.

2009 September Bear Season Numbers

Licensed black bear hunters took to the woods of western and central Massachusetts during the September season and emerged with 137 bruins. In Berkshire County, 51 bears were taken; 36 bears in Franklin County; 22 in Hampden County; 29 in Hampshire County, and one in Worcester County. Rifles, muzzleloaders, archery equipment, and certain handguns were permitted during the September season. This is the largest September bear harvest since 2003 when 142 bears were taken by hunters. The second bear season begins November 2 and ends November 21, 2009. MassWildlife reminds bear hunters that handguns are prohibited during the November season.

Forest Bird Population Trends Study Published

The results of a 19-year forest bird population study conducted by former MassWildlife State Ornithologist Brad Blodget, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Biologist Randy Detmers, and MassWildlife Forestry Project Leader John Scanlon have been published in the fall issue of the Northeastern Naturalist (Volume 16(3)), a well known scientific journal. Titled "Status and Trends of Birds in an extensive Western Massachusetts Forest," the study identified a total of 94 bird species from 1987-2005 within a 700-acre study area at the Hiram Fox Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Chester and Worthington. This WMA occurs within an extensively forested portion of the Massachusetts landscape, which appears to support more stable bird populations than more fragmented forestlands adjacent to urban and suburban development.

Avoid Invasive Plants for Holiday Decorating

As part of the upcoming holiday season, many people are using plant material to decorate their houses or businesses. The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) highly recommends that people avoid using certain exotic, invasive plants such as Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) and multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) in holiday decorations. Though these plants are attractive, it is best to refrain from using them. Birds eat and carry away the fruits from wreaths and garlands and the digested but still-viable seeds sprout where deposited.

November Stories

October 2009

Connect Children to Nature Through Duck Stamp Art

Registration information is now available for the 2010 Junior Duck Stamp (JDS) Program; Connecting Children With Nature Through Science and Art. Artwork submissions are due by March 15, 2010. For official entry information, visit www.fws.gov/juniorduck.

Autumn Outdoor Safety Tips

Fall is a wonderful time to be outdoors with its dazzling colors, crisp air, and wildlife activity galore. Whether your passion is hiking, hunting, fishing, birding, or just taking in the scenery, a few common sense safety reminders will add to your enjoyment during a day in the field.

2009 Fall Trout Allocations and Stocking

Autumn anglers will be happy to learn that fall trout stocking is just getting underway. This fall, 64,000 rainbow trout and 8,000 brown trout will be allocated among the five wildlife management districts across the state. The rainbow trout will average over 12 inches in length and the brown trout will average over 11.5 inches in length. The fish are produced at MassWildlife hatcheries in Sandwich, Belchertown, and Montague. Water temperatures permitting, trout stocking will begin no earlier than the last full week of September and completed by mid-October.

Anterless Deer Permits on Sale October 5, 2009

Deer hunters are reminded that antlerless deer permit sales will begin October 5, 2009, for permits remaining in Wildlife Management Zones (WMZs) 10, 11, 13, and 14. There are NO surplus permits available for any other Wildlife Management Zones this year. Hunters will be allowed to purchase one permit per zone per day. The cost is $5.00 per permit in cash or check. Sorry, but credit cards cannot be processed at agency offices. Hunters must present their original license to purchase permits; carbon copies or photocopies of licenses will not be accepted. A person may bring the original license(s) of another hunter and purchase permits for him or her.

October Stories

September 2009

Treestand Safety Course Available Online

Because treestand use is a common practice for hunters and some wildlife photographers, the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's Hunter Education Program has teamed up with Hunterexam.com to offer tips and an opportunity to take a voluntary, online treestand safety course. Information on the course and important treestand safety practices.

Come to the 13th Massachusetts Outdoor Expo for Families!

Families, friends, Scouts (Boys and Girls), and other youth groups should mark their calendars for September 27, 2009, and join the fun at the 13th annual Massachusetts Outdoor Expo (The Big MOE), held at the Hamilton Rod and Gun Club grounds in Sturbridge, 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. The Big MOE, sponsored by the Facts About Wildlife and Nature Society (FAWNS), is a free, family-oriented event celebrating outdoor skills, nature, art, and wildlife. This all-day family event is free, thanks to co-sponsors the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, Hamilton Rod and Gun Club, The Weatherby Foundation, and the Worcester County League of Sportsmen's Clubs.

Migratory Game Bird Seasons Set

On Thursday, August 27, 2009, the Fisheries and Wildlife Board held a public hearing in Hubbardston and then voted on regulations establishing the 2009-2010 migratory game bird seasons, bag limits, and methods of take. Migratory game bird regulations and a map outlining waterfowl hunting zones are posted on the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife website. Hard copies of the Migratory Game Bird regulations will be available by mid-September. Hunters planning to hunt ducks, geese, woodcock, and other migratory game birds are reminded that they must obtain a free Harvest Information Program (HIP) number by calling 1-800-WETLAND (938-5263). In order to be eligible for the free HIP number, hunters must possess a 2009 hunting license and complete a voice survey of any past migratory bird hunting activities. Online license buyers can complete the HIP survey on the MassOutdoors website. Anyone finding a banded bird should report the band information to the federal government at www.reportband.gov or call 1-800-327-BAND.

Controlled Deer Hunt Changes for Camp Edwards, Cape Cod

Deer hunters who want to hunt at the Massachusetts Military Reservation (also referred to as the MMR, Camp Edwards or Otis Air Force Base), on Cape Cod in 2009 need to be aware of a change in the registration system for the controlled hunt. For the first time, hunters who have pre-registered for and/or participated in the controlled deer hunting program at Camp Edwards within the previous five calendar years (2004-2008) are not required to fill out and submit a pre-registration form to participate in the hunt. Hunters who have not pre-registered and/or participated during that time period (or those that are unsure if they have) must fill out the registration form and send it to the MassWildlife Southeast District Office by November 1, 2009.

September Stories

August 2009

Anterless Deer Permit Drawing Results

The Antlerless Deer Permit Drawing took place on July 30, 2009 at the Hamilton Rod and Gun Club, Sturbridge. Results from the drawing are posted. Winning numbers are based on the last digit of the hunting or sporting license number. If the last digit of the hunting or sporting license matches any of the numbers listed in the zone for which a hunter applied, the hunter will be awarded a permit for that zone. For partial numbers, there will be a random selection from the total number of applicants with that number Not every applicant with the partial number will receive a permit. The number of random selectees for these partial digits is indicated in parentheses in the antlerless deer permit drawing results table.

Massachusetts Outdoor Expo Needs Volunteers

The 13th annual Massachusetts Outdoor Expo (Big MOE) is in need of enthusiastic volunteers to share their passion for wildlife and the outdoors with families and youth groups who are looking to learn new outdoor and wildlife related skills. The Big MOE celebrates outdoor skills, nature, art, and wildlife and will be held at the Hamilton Rod and Gun Club grounds in Sturbridge on September 37, 2009 from 9 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.

The Chicks are Banded

The Bay State's resident Bald eagles and Peregrine falcons were the focus of a banding effort by MassWildlife biologists during the months of May and June. Dr. Tom French, Assistant Director of MassWildlife's Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, reported an estimated 39 peregrine falcon chicks at 17 nests. "Peregrine nests are popping up everywhere with two new nests at MIT in Cambridge and an apartment building in New Bedford," said French. Falcon nest locations include eight peregrine nesting sites in the Greater Metropolitan Boston area, while Worcester, Fall River, Lawrence, Lowell, Deerfield, Amherst and Springfield each host one nest.

Bats in the Belfry

With summer's hot, humid weather finally here, some Bay State homeowners may discover bats residing in their homes! Attics are the most common portion of a house in which bats roost and raise their young. After a few hot summer days, an attic may become too warm for the bats, forcing them out and sometimes into people's living quarters as they search for cooler places to roost. What's a homeowner to do? Fortunately, a single bat flying in a room can usually be dealt with quite easily. Open an outside window or door in the room containing the bat and close off the rest of the room from the house. It's usually only a matter of a few minutes of circling before the bat locates the open window and leaves the house. Bats do not attack people or fly into people's hair.

August Stories

Mid July 2009

Woodcock and Waterfowl Hunters must get HIP!

The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife reminds all hunters, including non-residents, who plan to hunt woodcock, ducks, geese, and other migratory birds in the state, must register for a 2009 Massachusetts Harvest Information Program (HIP) number after purchasing a valid hunting license. "It's not too early to think about planning for the upcoming migratory game bird seasons," said H Heusmann, MassWildlife waterfowl project leader. "We need to remind woodcock and waterfowl hunters now to prepare for the upcoming hunting seasons this fall. The early goose season will begin in September." Heusmann explained that the Harvest Information Program gathers data from migratory game bird hunters for game bird harvest surveys. The information gathered for the harvest surveys assists state and federal biologists to make decisions on setting sustainable bag limits for future hunting seasons. This year, 1,000 randomly selected Massachusetts 2008 HIP registrants were sent a questionnaire asking their opinions on several woodcock and waterfowl, matters that will be considered in setting Massachusetts 2009 migratory game bird season regulations.

Final Spring Turkey Season Figures

Final figures gathered by MassWildlife indicate a record 3,027 birds taken by licensed hunters during the 2009 spring turkey season. "This is the first year in which the Massachusetts spring harvest exceeded 3,000 birds," said Jim Cardoza, MassWildlife Turkey Project Leader. "The excellent weather during the first week of the season and an increase in hunter numbers undoubtedly contributed to the high harvest." In 2008, 2,689 birds were taken by licensed hunters. By county, the breakdown is as follows: 25 turkeys were taken in Barnstable County, 489 in Berkshire County, 140 in Bristol County, 3 in Dukes County (Martha's Vineyard), 107 in Essex County, 434 in Franklin County, 215 in Hampden County, 284 in Hampshire County, 164 in Middlesex County, 83 in Norfolk County, 303 in Plymouth County, and 780 in Worcester County. Non-resident hunters from 12 states took 216 birds.

New Living with Wildlife Fact Sheets and Bird Checklist Available

New Living With Wildlife fact sheets on Deer, Skunks, Raccoons, and Neighborhood Wildlife have been posted on the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife web pages. The Living With Wildlife series fact sheets are designed to provide information about some of the common types of wildlife people encounter and how to live with and enjoy wildlife responsibly. Tips on preventing conflicts are provided. Hard copies of fact sheets will be available at MassWildlife District offices and the Westborough Field Headquarters. Links to the fact sheets.

Quabbin Deer Hunt Applications Available

Applications for the 2009 Quabbin Controlled Deer Hunt are available on the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) web page. Water Supply Division staff remind prospective applicants that regardless of the type of firearm used, all applicants must have a valid FID card to be eligible to apply for this hunting opportunity. All applications must be postmarked by August 15 or hand-delivered to the Quabbin Visitor's Center by 4:00 P.M. on that date to qualify for the permit selection process.

Mid July Stories

July 2009

Reporting Fish Kills

With warm weather warming up lakes and ponds, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) has already fielded nearly two dozen reports about fish kills discovered in some bodies of water. Half of these calls have come in since the beginning of June. The sight of dead and dying fish along the shores of a favorite lake or pond can be distressing and trigger concerns about pollution. Fish do act as the "canary in the coalmine," so it's natural to think a fish kill is an indicator of a problem with human caused pollution. However, the vast majority of fish kills reported are natural events.

Report Herbs!

The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) is asking interested conservationists for reports or sightings of certain specific reptiles and amphibians. The species of NHESP interest include: Smooth Greensnake, Eastern Hog-nosed Snake, Eastern Ribbonsnake, Eastern Musk Turtle, Spotted Turtle, and the Northern Leopard Frog. NHESP is particularly interested in sightings of the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake.

New Hunters! Sign up now for Classes

New hunters of all ages are reminded that it is never too early to sign up for a Basic Hunter Education Course. First time license buyers in Massachusetts are required to show proof that they have taken a basic hunter education course in order to purchase a hunting or sporting license. Basic courses are available across the state and many begin in August and September.

Anterless Deer Permit Deadline July 16

Deer hunters, don't wait in line; apply on time! Deer hunters are reminded that in order to take antlerless deer during any deer hunting season, they must possess an antlerless deer permit. The July 16 antlerless deer permit application deadline is fast approaching. Antlerless deer permit applications are found on paper licenses bought over the counter. Internet license buyers need to access the MassOutdoors website at www.sport.state.ma.us and apply on-line. Only online license holders may apply for a permit through MassOutdoors. Antlerless deer permit applications delivered to the Field Headquarters after 4:30 PM or postmarked after July 16 will not be accepted. Due to decreases in the permit allocation in most zones, MassWildlife encourages all hunters to apply for a permit because there will likely be very few zones where permits will be available for purchase over the counter. A table with the number of permits allocated for the 2009 season for each Wildlife Management Zone is posted on the agency website.

July Stories

June 2009

Turtle Crossings

June heralds the peak of activity when normally-aquatic Snapping, Painted, Spotted, Red-bellied, Blanding’s, and other turtles leave the relative safety of their water world and venture overland in search of nesting sites. With alarming frequency, these ancient reptiles are cut off from traditional nesting areas by an ever-increasing network of roads, leaving the turtles vulnerable to high rates of road-kill.

Youth Artist from Quincy Wins Junior Duck Stamp Contest

Mackenzie Haertlin of Quincy, a high school student who studies with Platka's Traveling Art Studio, won top honors among youth artists in the 2009 Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp Contest. Her acrylic painting of a drake (male) and a hen Mallard was selected from 234 entries as Massachusetts’ Best of Show in the Junior Duck Stamp (JDS) Contest. Haertlin's award winning work also represented Massachusetts’ entry in the national JDS Contest held at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum in Washington, D.C. Across the state, students from kindergarten through 12th grade submitted original works of art depicting waterfowl in the appropriate wetland habitat, sharing both their talents as young artists and their knowledge of the importance of wetlands for wildlife. The awards ceremony for the top 100 winning artists was held by the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) at The Trustees of Reservations Doyle Center for Conservation in Leominster. A complete list of all winners from each age group category from Amherst to Amesbury is posted on the Massachusetts JDS webpage.

2009 Fishing and Boating Access Projects Completed

Just in time for National Boating and Fishing Week (June 6-14, 2009), Department of Fish and Game (DFG) Commissioner Mary Griffin announced the completion of ten boating and fishing access projects valued at more than $1.3 million in fiscal year 2009. These projects involved repair and new construction of boat ramps, car-top access areas, parking lots, and barrier-free shore fishing platforms overseen by the DFG’s Office of Fishing and Boating Access (OFBA). The Commonwealth invested $923,000 in these projects while most cooperating cities and towns contributed through staff time spent on construction. The towns of Wellfleet and Truro were able to provide $400,000 on cooperative projects.

Massachusetts Rivers Month Calendar

June is Rivers Month and the Department of Fish and Game’s Riverways Office has compiled a Rivers Month Calendar covering river-related events in Massachusetts from May through early July, to provide citizens with the opportunity to participate in events in, on, and along the rivers of the Commonwealth. The 2009 Massachusetts Rivers Month Calendar is accessible online or as a downloadable MS Word document.

June Stories

May 2009

Leave young wildlife alone!

The arrival of spring means the arrival of newborn and just-hatched wildlife. These youngsters soon venture into the world on shaky legs or fragile wings and are discovered by people living and working nearby. Every year, the lives of many young wild creatures are disturbed by people who take young wildlife from the wild in a well-intentioned attempt to "save" them. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) offices are already receiving calls about young wildlife that were picked up by people.

Family fishing opportunities

Looking for a way to spend some quality time with your family in the great outdoors and learn a new skill or brush up on your technique? Try a free fishing clinic or family fishing festival near you! MassWildlife's Angler Education Program has teamed up with other agencies, municipalities, organizations and businesses to provide free fishing opportunities and loaner equipment for beginning anglers of all ages. Fishing events for the month of May are below. Go to an updated listing of fishing events.

New location for outdoorswoman weekend June 5-7

This year, the 13th Annual Massachusetts Becoming an Outdoorswoman Program (BOW) will be held at a new location, the Chimney Corners YMCA Camp on June 5-7, 2009 located in Becket. This beautiful facility is situated on the banks of two lakes which offer wonderful fishing, boating and other outdoor activities. This exciting weekend workshop is open to women 18 and older who want to try new outdoor skills in a supportive environment. Engage in activities such as archery, kayaking, wild edible plants, nature photography, fly fishing, shooting, and more. This weekend experience makes a wonderful gift for Mother's Day or for any special woman in your life. Registration material for this fun-filled "camp for women" are posted.

Wildlife stamp artwork deadlines loom

The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife reminds artists who wish to submit entries for three 2009 wildlife stamp competitions to be aware of the deadlines. Both the archery and primitive firearms stamp entries are due May 15, 2009. Waterfowl stamp entries are due June 1, 2009. For details and rules regarding the stamp competitions, hard copies of contest regulations may be obtained from the Westborough Field Headquarters by calling (508) 389-6300 or visit the MassWildlife website.

May's stories

April 2009

Help Stock Salmon Fry!

Volunteers from high schools, sporting clubs, civic groups, colleges, and individuals with a passion for rivers, fish, or fishing are needed to assist Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) personnel in stocking 1.5 million salmon fry (juvenile fish) as part of the Connecticut River Atlantic Salmon restoration program. According to Dr. Caleb Slater, MassWildlife's Anadromous Fish Project Leader, at least 20 stocking dates are planned in April and early May to release salmon fry into dozens of Connecticut River tributaries. The fry will come from MassWildlife's Roger Reed Hatchery in Palmer and the White River National Fish Hatchery in Bethel, Vermont. Fry will be trucked to meeting sites where volunteers will gather and caravan to release sites. The tiny fish will then be moved from truck to water by bucket using volunteer man- and womanpower. The 2009 Fry Stocking Schedule and details on meeting locations and stocking tips are posted on the MassWildlife website.

Trout Stocking Begins

Anglers with cabin fever (and fishing licenses) who have been impatiently waiting for open water will be cheered to learn that trout stocking began in mid-March in the eastern part of the state. At this time stocking is now occurring throughout the Commonwealth. Weekly trout stocking reports will be posted and updated each Friday on the MassWildlife website. All schedules are subject to alteration or cancellation due to equipment failure, inclement weather, high water, or other unforeseen circumstances. Anglers without Internet access may also call the nearest District office for information: Western (413) 447-9789; Valley (413) 323-7632; Central (508) 835-3607; Northeast (978) 263-4347; or Southeast (508) 759-3406. Don't forget to try to "hook" a new angler of any age, especially a youngster: be sure to share the joys of fishing this year!

Turkey Hunting Reminders

Turkey hunting season will begin in most of the Bay State on April 27, 2009. The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) has some important reminders for turkey hunters to consider before the season begins.

Environmental Police Remind Boaters to Wear Lifejackets

Though air temperatures are rising and ice is retreating from many ponds and lakes, boaters are still at risk from cold water and the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) is reminding people that state law requires all canoeists and kayakers to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times through May 15.

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March
2/26/09

BEARS AND BIRDFEEDERS

If you feed birds and live in northern Middlesex County, Worcester County, or western Massachusetts, it's time to think about removing bird feeders before bears emerge from hibernation. With the snow melting and longer day length, bears are will soon be leaving their winter dens. To avoid possible seasonal conflicts between people and bears in central and western Massachusetts, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is issuing its seasonal reminder that bird feeders should be taken down by mid-March and other preventive steps be taken.

SHARE THE FUN OF FISHING, BECOME AN INSTRUCTOR

If you have an interest in fishing and enjoy sharing this fun and relaxing activity with others, consider becoming a Volunteer Instructor with the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's (MassWildlife) Angler Education Program. Volunteer Instructors are committed and enthusiastic outdoorsmen and women (15 years or older) who want to pass on the traditions, ethics and excitement of fishing and outdoor activities to beginners of all ages. The free instructor training workshop will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2009 at MassWildlife's Field Headquarters in Westborough 10 AM - 4PM. Lunch and snacks will be provided.

LATE WINTER ICE SAFETY

As the winter months come to a close, the variable temperatures experienced in the state in the past week means the condition of ice on the Bay State's waterbodies is unpredictable and could be treacherous. Outdoor enthusiasts need to play it safe and check ice carefully before venturing onto ice-covered waters. An ice strength table is posted on the agency website. Clear, blue ice is the strongest ice. Slush or snow (white) ice is only one-half the strength of blue ice and can be very treacherous. "Honeycombed" ice, which occurs in the spring or during major winter thaws as the ice is melting, is the most dangerous ice.

2009 SPRING TROUT ALLOCATIONS

Bay State anglers can look forward to over 518,000 feisty brook, brown, rainbow and tiger trout being stocked this spring according to figures released by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife). Stocking will begin when ice, snow and mud conditions allow the 2-ton District tank trucks access to the waterways. Anglers are advised to contact the District office for updates on when stocking will begin in the area.

Read all of these stories and more