Hunting season is upon us! Land trusts across Maine are a resource for all types of outdoor recreation, including hunting. Hunting can help to maintain a healthy balance of game species, which contributes to ecological diversity and helps native plant and animal communities thrive. It also supports food security for individuals and families across the state. Boothbay Region Land Trust is committed to keeping its lands accessible to the public for traditional activities including hunting, where appropriate. At Boothbay Region Land Trust, hunting is permitted by permission at certain locations. Interested hunters should contact the Land Trust to learn about our hunting policies and receive approval for hunting.
Hikers utilizing land trust preserves during hunting season should wear blaze orange at all times. Even if hikers are utilizing preserves where hunting is not permitted or common, it is possible that adjacent private properties could be used for hunting. Blaze orange clothing is the best way to notify hunters of your presence and to stay safe while outdoors during this season. BRLT also recommends that hikers stick to the trails and keep dogs leashed. As a general reminder, the state of Maine does not allow hunting on Sundays. Those hikers who feel more comfortable at locations where hunting is prohibited and signs are posted may wish to consider recreating at Oak Point Farm or Saunders Preserve during hunting season.
Some BRLT preserves are more conducive to hunting activities than others, such as Pine Tree Preserve, which generally receives fewer hikers and is one of the larger preserves in the area. Smaller, busier preserves such as Penny Lake, Porter Preserve, and Oak Point Farm can be good options for hikers during hunting season as the heavy traffic, in-town settings, and surrounding residences make them a less likely choice for hunting.
Boothbay Region Land Trust appreciates the community’s cooperation in following these guidelines and ensuring that the region’s preserves can remain available and safe for a wide variety of activities. For questions or to request more information or permission for hunting, individuals may contact Boothbay Region Land Trust at brlt@bbrlt.org or call during office hours.
