Will hunting disrupt walking and other recreational uses of conservation land?

Walking and recreational uses of conservation land will not be disrupted. 

The deer hunting stands are located high up in trees and away from main trails. The hunters are aware that Weston’s Conservation Lands are heavily used by people and dogs. 

Several MetroWest communities including Framingham, Sudbury, and Dover also have successful hunting programs on their conservation lands where people frequently walk dogs, jog, bike and horse-back ride. Since the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife began keeping records, there have been no reports of non-hunter injuries during bow hunting season. 

Unfortunately, illegal hunting does take place on conservation land. The Conservation Commission occasionally finds illegal deer stands and blinds. Despite the Commission’s best efforts to police the properties, it does not have the resources to be ever-present on all properties. However, Weston's permitted hunters who have a stake in the program help the Commission deter illegal hunting, and improve safety for everyone in the woods. 

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Show All Answers

1. What is the hunting program in Weston?
2. Will hunting disrupt walking and other recreational uses of conservation land?
3. Isn't hunting inconsistent with the purpose of conservation land? Why can't we just let nature take its course?
4. Are Weston's conservation lands open to other forms of hunting?