The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Without top predators a growing deer herd can impact forest regeneration. Hunters today perform this essential ecological role. © Bill Silliker

Without top predators a growing deer herd can impact forest regeneration. Hunters today perform this essential ecological role.

Hunting and fishing are allowed on Conservancy lands with verbal permission, and with the exceptions noted below. We encourage hunters to obtain the current Vermont Digest of Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Laws published by the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife.

• Verbal Permission: On most Conservancy-owned lands, verbal permission is required to hunt. The purpose of this system is to monitor use. Call the Director of Science and Stewardship at 802-229-4425.
   
• Written Permission: On the Helen W. Buckner Memorial Preserve in West Haven, the Lower Poultney River Natural Area and Shaw Mountain Natural Area in Benson, written permission is required. Please contact the Conservancy’s West Haven office at 115 Main Rd., West Haven, VT 05743; 802-265-8645.

Hunting Exceptions or Restrictions

• LaPlatte River Marsh Natural Area in Shelburne Bow hunting is allowed but no rifle discharge for safety reasons. The preserve is located next to a school and housing.
   
• Barr Hill Natural Area in Greensboro No hunting allowed by deed restriction on the entire Barr Hill property.
   
• High Pond Natural Area On certain parts of this preserve located in the towns of Brandon/Pittsford/Hubbardton/Sudbury, hunting is prohibited by deed restriction.
   
• Atlas Timberlands Property The Nature Conservancy in Vermont and the Vermont Land Trust co-own the 26,162-acre Atlas Timberlands, which are managed for timber production and ecological conservation. Hunting, fishing, trapping and other uses are permitted. No advance permission is required.
   
• On Public Lands Most land protected by The Nature Conservancy has been transferred to public agencies such as the VTFWD, VTFPR, and GMNF. The public agencies that own and manage most of these lands generally allow hunting in accordance with state laws. Please obey regulations for specific locations.