Note: The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (MassWildlife) provides external links to the websites of entities mentioned on this page as a public service. The Division does not exercise control over the content of these websites. A link's presence here should not be construed as an endorsement of its contents by MassWildlife.

January

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• January 1--Happy New Year! We hope you enjoy and use this calendar for your recreation and educational needs.

• January 1 --SUPPORT WILDLIFE WORK IN MASSACHUSETTS ! Buy a fishing or hunting license.  Unlike most other state agencies, the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife's budget is approximately 95% funded through license fees and our work benefits all citizens and the wildlife residing in the Commonwealth. Consider this a natural investment in wildlife conservation, research, recreation and education! You can also contribute to the Heritage and Endangered Species Fund which is partially supported by donations as well as license fees and general tax funds. One other valuable way to help wildlife is to donate to the Wildlands Fund--this fund was set up for the exclusive purpose of purchasing important fish & wildlife habitat. The land will also be open to the public, from fishing and hunting, to wildlife watching and hiking.

• Important Reminder to ALL Woodcock, Snipe, Rail, Coot and Waterfowl Hunters --Remember to get your Mass. 2006 HIP (Harvest Information Permit) number if you are planning to hunt at ANY time in the year 2006. Your 2005 HIP number expired at the end of 2005. You will need your 2006 hunting license in order to get the HIP number.Call 1-800 WETLAND. Don't forget to buy your state stamp, too! Your federal stamp you bought for last fall is good until June, 2006. MassWildlife Migratory Bird Regulations.

• January 1-15--Mid-Winter Eagle Survey Period, Statewide--MassWildlife will be participating in the nationwide Midwinter Bald Eagle Survey from January 1 through 15, 2005. January 6 is the date for a concentrated survey of major rivers, lakes, reservoirs and the coast by MassWildlife personnel and volunteers across the state. Eagle sightings during the count period may be reported in writing to "Eagle Survey", MassWildlife, Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, Westboro, MA 01581 or via email at Mass.Wildlife@state.ma.us. Check out the news releases on the web site later on in January to find the preliminary number of eagles seen.

• January 2--Snowshoe hare, cottontail rabbit, opossum, raccoon, fox, coyote, bobcat, snapping turtle and crow season opens. Last day of gray squirrel season in both Eastern & Western Zones.Trout limit on all water bodies is 3, except for Brown trout in South Pond which is 1. Smelt season opens and may only be taken by hook and line. See the 2006 Hunting and Fishing Abstracts .

• January 6--Last day of the 2005 Christmas Bird Count period. Over 32 designated areas have been covered by teams of birders counting not only the number of species but also the numbers of birds seen. For more information, check out the MassBird website!

• January 6--MassWildlife at the Girls Scout Cookie Kick Off, Auburn--The Montachusett Girl Scout Council will be kicking off sales of cookies at the Auburn Mall with the theme of Explore Animals. MassWildlife and other wildlife related organizations will have hands-on displays on ways to learn about animals at the Auburn Mall from 4PM - 7:30 PM. All at the mall are invited to explore the MassWildlife's education programs and activities. For more information, contact Pam Landry, MassWildlife Education Coordinator, 508/389-6300.

• January 6 -- February 26-Quack, quack! Junior Duck Stamp Traveling Art Exhibit at the Buttonwood Zoo, New Bedford. Take your family and friends to the Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford to see top youth entries in the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp (JDS) Contest! Youth of all ages are encouraged to learn about waterfowl and the importance of wetlands through this conservation contest. Sponsored by MassWildlife, the Massachusetts Wildlife Federation, the Massachusetts Waterfowler's Association, Ducks Unlimited-Mass Chapter, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Boston Duck Tours. The Buttonwood Zoo is handicapped accessible. For further information on the exhibit and the zoo, visit the Buttonwood Zoo website at www.bpzoo.org or contact: Gail Janezcek 508/991-6178. For details about the JDS program, visit the Education area at the MassWildlife website at www.mass.gov/masswildlife.

• January 7 -- Last day of duck and regular Canada goose season, Central Zone. Important Reminder to Waterfowl Hunters--Remember to get your Mass. 2006 HIP (Harvest Information Permit) number if you are planning to hunt at ANY time in the year 2006. Your 2005 HIP number expired at the end of 2005. You will need your 2006 hunting license in order to get the HIP number.Call 1-800 WETLAND. Don't forget to buy your state stamp, too! Your federal stamp you bought for last fall is good until June, 2006. MassWildlife Migratory Bird Regulations. .

• January 8 - February 6 -- Quack, quack! Junior Duck Stamp Traveling Art Exhibit at the Buttonwood Zoo, New Bedford-- Bring your family to the zoo and see top youth entries in the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp Contest. The Duck Stamp contest is modeled after the adult versions of both the state and federal duck stamp competitions. Youth of all ages are encouraged to learn about waterfowl and the importance of wetlands through this conservation contest. Sponsored by MassWildlife, the Massachusetts Wildlife Federation, Mass. Waterfowler's Association Ducks Unlimited-Mass Chapter, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Boston Duck Tours. More info on Junior Duck Stamp Program. The Buttonwood Zoo is handicapped accessible. For further information on the exhibit, contact: Gail Janezcek 508/991-6178 .

• January 16 -- First day of late Canada goose and Snow/Blue goose seasons, Central Zone. Important Reminder to Waterfowl Hunters--Remember to get your Mass. 2006 HIP (Harvest Information Permit) number if you are planning to hunt at ANY time in the year 2006. Your 2005 HIP number expired at the end of 2005. You will need your 2006 hunting license in order to get the HIP number.Call 1-800 WETLAND. Don't forget to buy your state stamp, too! Your federal stamp you bought for last fall is good until June, 2006. MassWildlife Migratory Bird Regulations. .

• January 16-Trout Talk for Fly Fishermen, Ludlow-The Western Masssachusetts Fly Fishermen will host MassWildlife's Chief of Hatcheries, Dr. Ken Simmons at their monthly meeting at the Polish American Citizens Club, East Street at 7 PM. Simmons will be talking about trout. This meeting is open to the public. For more information, contact Bill Rose, 413/786-0195.

• January 18 --Fisheries & Wildlife Board Meeting, 1PM, Westborough-This meeting will be held at 1PM at the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, Richard Cronin Building, Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Road. Open to the public and media, these public meetings provide Board members with information from MassWildlife on wildlife and related topics and issues across the state.

• January 21 -- Last day of duck and regular Canada goose season, Coastal Zone. Last day of Brant season statewide. Important Reminder to Waterfowl Hunters--Remember to get your Mass. 2006 HIP (Harvest Information Permit) number if you are planning to hunt at ANY time in the year 2006. Your 2005 HIP number expired at the end of 2005. You will need your 2006 hunting license in order to get the HIP number.Call 1-800 WETLAND. Don't forget to buy your state stamp, too! Your federal stamp you bought for last fall is good until June, 2006. MassWildlife Migratory Bird Regulations. .
• January 23--Early Bird deadline for registering for Mass. Environmental Education Society Annual Conference, Holy Cross College, Worcester This statewide conference to be held on March 10 attracts classroom teachers, youth group leaders, state and park naturalists and other environmental educators from not only Massachusetts but other New England states. Save on your registration fee by registering by this date. No walk in registrations are permiteed. This year's theme is: EE Crossings..Connecting with Art, History, Literature, Math and Science.

• January 23 -- First day of late Canada goose and Snow/Blue goose seasons, North Coastal Zone. Important Reminder to Waterfowl Hunters--Remember to get your Mass. 2006 HIP (Harvest Information Permit) number if you are planning to hunt at ANY time in the year 2006. Your 2005 HIP number expired at the end of 2005. You will need your 2006 hunting license in order to get the HIP number.Call 1-800 WETLAND. Don't forget to buy your state stamp, too! Your federal stamp you bought for last fall is good until June, 2006. MassWildlife Migratory Bird Regulations. .

• January 24 -- Stemming the Decline of Shrubland Birds in Western Massachusetts, Hadley--The Valley Environmental Education Collaborative (VEEC) 2006 lecture series entitled "Tides of Change: Wildlife Population Trends in the Valley" is kicking off the year with Jill Liske-Clark, MassWildlife Upland Habitat Restoration Coordinator. Clark will present slides and information about the benefits of habitat management for grassland and shrubland bird species which are in decline. The talk will be at the US. Fish & Wildlife Service Regional Office in Hadley, 7 PM. The facility is handicapped accessible. Call 413/253-8303 for more details. VEEC is a collaborative of environmental and natural resource organizations and public agencies in the Connecticut River Valley.

• January 25--Living With Coyotes and Other Wildlife, Norwell--MassWildlife District Manager, Jason Zimmer will talk about living with coyotes and other wildlife in your neighborhood as part of the South Shore Science Center Waterwatch Lecture series. This free presentation begins at 7PM and is co-sponsored by the North and South Rivers Watershed Association and the Massachusetts Audubon Society's South Shore Sanctuaries. The facility is handicapped accessible. For more information, contact the South Shore Science Center at 781/659-2559.

• Breeding begins for several furbearers in this chilly month, including coyote, beaver, opossum and raccoon.

• January 31--Last day of hunting season for raccoon and opossum. See the 2006 Hunting and Fishing Abstracts .Trapping dates for these species close at the end of next month.

February

• February 1--Junior Duck Stamp Contestants Needed!--This conservation education program is designed to stimulate awareness and personal involvement in waterfowl & wetland conservation for students in grades K-12 through a student art project. If you are a student or know of a student who loves to draw, color or paint, this is for him or her! Contact Pam Landry at 508-389-6300 by this date to get on a mailing list to receive materials and information about the program. Artwork submission deadline is March 15.

• February 1 - February 25 -- Quack, quack! Junior Duck Stamp Traveling Art Exhibit at the Holyoke Heritage State Park, Holyoke-- Bring your family to see top youth entries in the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp Contest. The Duck Stamp contest is modeled after the adult versions of both the state and federal duck stamp competitions. Youth of all ages are encouraged to learn about waterfowl and the importance of wetlands through this conservation contest. Sponsored by MassWildlife, the Massachusetts Wildlife Federation, Mass. Waterfowler's Association Ducks Unlimited-Mass Chapter, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Boston Duck Tours. More info on Junior Duck Stamp Program. The Holyoke Heritage State Park is handicapped accessible. For further information on the exhibit, contact: Charlie Lotspeich 413/ 534-1723.

• Housing for Wood Ducks-With safe ice throughout the state, district and Westboro biologists are replacing old wood duck boxes or installing new ones in wet (frozen) areas throughout the state. Contact the MassWildlife District office closest to you for wood duck box plans!

• February 2 --GROUNDHOG DAY Here in New England, what some people call groundhogs are actually woodchucks.

• February 7-- Last day of falconry on ducks and coots statewide. Important Reminder to Waterfowl Hunters-Remember to get your Mass. 2006 HIP (Harvest Information Permit) number if you are planning to hunt at ANY time in the year 2006. Your 2005 HIP number expired at the end of 2005. You will need your 2006 hunting license in order to get the HIP number.Call 1-800 WETLAND. Don't forget to buy your state stamp, too! Your federal stamp you bought for last fall is good until June, 2006. MassWildlife Migratory Bird Regulations.

• February 8 and 11 -- Basic Ice Fishing Clinic, Billerica-- Want to learn about "hard water" fishing? Beginning anglers of all ages are encouraged to attend this workshop which will be taught by instructors from MassWildlife's Angler Education Program. This clinic is sponsored by the Billerica Recreation Department. Learn basic techniques and how to handle the equipment needed to go ice fishing. The second day will include an ice fishing excursion (weather and ice safety permitting). The course is free. Equipment will be provided, but anyone with equipment is welcome to bring it. Contact the Billerica Recreation Department for more information at 978/671-0921.

• February 9--Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Advisory Committee Meeting, Westboro Field HQ-This is a meeting to which the public is welcome to attend. Topics on non-game and endangered species will be covered, an update on agency activities will be part of the agenda. The Committee makes recommendations on these issues to the Fisheries & Wildlife Board. 1:30 - 4:00 PM.

• February 9-12--MassWildlife at the Eastern Outdoor & Fishing Expo, Worcester Centrum Stop by the MassWildlife Booth if you'd like to learn about hunting and fishing opportunities as well as outdoor skills courses and clinics. Ask questions about Trout Stocking or any other wildlife topic, this is the time to meet the staff one-on-one. Sporting licenses will also be available at the show. Support wildlife research, restoration, conservation, habitat protection and management in the Commonwealth with your license purchase! For more information on the show, contact www.sportshows.com .

• February 10--Registration deadline for registering for Mass. Environmental Education Society Annual Conference, Holy Cross College, Worcester This statewide conference to be held on March 10 attracts classroom teachers, youth group leaders, state and park naturalists and other environmental educators from not only Massachusetts but other New England states. This year's theme is: EE Crossings...Connecting with Art, History, Literature, Math and Science. No walk in registrations are permiteed.

• February 11-- Massachusetts Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Ceremony -- Held at 4PM at the Eastern Outdoor and Fishing Expo, Worcester Centrum. Celebrate the accomplishments of the winners in MassWildlife's Sportfishing Awards Program. Top winners in 21 categories will be acknowledged with a Gold SportFishing Award Pin!. The Angler of the Year Award will also be presented at this ceremony. For information on the Expo, contact www.sportshows.com For information on the Sportfishing Awards Ceremony, contact Richard Hartley at 508/389-6300.

• February 14 --Fisheries & Wildlife Board Meeting, Westborough-This meeting will be held at 1PM at the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, Richard Cronin Building, Field Headquarters, North Drive. Open to the public and media, these public meetings provide Board members with information from MassWildlife on wildlife and related topics and issues across the state. Call 508/389-6300 for directions.

• February 15--Last day of Late Canada Goose Season in the Central and North Coastal Zones. Remember to get your Mass. 2006 HIP (Harvest Information Permit) number if you are planning to hunt at ANY time in the year 2006. Your 2005 HIP number expired at the end of 2005. You will need your 2006 hunting license in order to get the HIP number.Call 1-800 WETLAND. Don't forget to buy your state stamp, too! Your federal stamp you bought for last fall is good until June, 2006. MassWildlife Migratory Bird Regulations. .

• February 15 - Black Bears in Massachusetts, Springfield - Come to the Springfield Museum's Tolman Wing to hear MassWildlife Bear Biologist, Jim Cardoza share information from decades of research on this interesting mammal. This free presentation, sponsored by the Springfield Naturalists Club, begins at 7:30 PM and is open to the public. The facility is handicapped accessible. For more information, contact Dave Gallup, President, Springfield Naturalists' Club, 413/525-4697.

• February 17 -- Deadline to register for Animal Tracks and Signs for Outdoorswomen workshop to be held Feb. 25 in Holden -- Unlock the secrets of the winter woods and learn about animal tracks and other clues that wildlife leaves behind!

• February 18--Junior Duck Stamp Workshop, Buttonwood Zoo, New Bedford--This workshop is free with zoo admission. Learn about the Junior Duck Stamp program and create some waterfowl art to participate in this year's competition!Free to students in grades K-12. Pre-registration is required--call 508/991-6178 x 22. Start time given when you register.

• February 23-26 -- MassWildlife at the Springfield Sportsmen's Show, Big E, W. Springfield Stop by the MassWildlife Booth if you'd like to learn about hunting and fishing opportunities as well as outdoor skills courses and clinics.A sk questions about Trout Stocking or any other wildlife topic, this is the time to meet the staff one-on-one. Sporting licenses will also be available at the show. Support wildlife research, restoration, conservation, habitat protection and management in the Commonwealth with your license purchase! For more information about the show, go to www.osegsportsmens.org Enter a raffle for the Mass. Angler Education Program--win a bass fishing trip to a camp in Maine, a Sage fly rod, an Old Town Kayak and other great prizes.

• February 25 -- Animal Tracks and Reading Wildlife Sign for Outdoorswomen, Holden -- Unlock the secrets of the winter woods! Animal tracking is a fascinating way to learn about the natural world. You'll never look at the woods the same way again, one the patterns of tracks and trails begin to emerge. This workshop is designed for women 18 years and older who want to learn a new outdoor skill or brush up on their previous experience. Registration is limited to 20 participants and the deadline is February 7. Registration materials or call 508/389-6300 for materials to be faxed.

• February 25-26 -- 27th Annual Standish Sportsmen's Show, East Bridgewater -- Stop by the Masswildlife Booth if you'd like to learn about hunting and fishing opportunities as well as outdoor skills courses and clinics. Ask questions about Trout Stocking or any other wildlife topic, this is the time to meet the staff one-on-one. Sporting licenses will also be available at the show. Support wildlife research, restoration, conservation, habitat protection and management in the Commonwealth with your license purchase! The show is located on Burr Lane. For more information contact Hugh Hurley of the Standish Sportsmen's Association at 508/888-9327 or email him at hrhurley@comcast.net.

• February 28 --Deadline to register for 14th MassAudubon Birders Meeting, March 4 in Waltham-- Join birders from around the state to learn about bird trends, atlases and hear a keynote speaker on the Ivory Billed Woodpecker. MassWildlife's Tern Restoration Manager, Carolyn Mostello will be offering a talk on the "History and Restoration of Terns in Buzzards Bay".

• Look for snow fleas or springtails on the snow during a warm thaw period. They look like tiny little black dots gathered in depressions in the snow, particularly foot prints. The insects spend their lives in leaf litter and are not as noticeable during the rest of the year.

• Skunks, mink and otter are breeding during this month. You may notice the skunk activity as they may move about during times of thaws.

• February 28-- Snowshoe hare and season closes in Zones 1-4. Rabbit season, coyote, and fox seasons statewide close on this date. Smelt Season closes. See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones. This is a pdf file. Trapping season for Raccoon, Opossum, Skunk and Muskrat closes. See Trapping and Furbearer Regulations.

March

• March 1--CANOEING? KAYAKING? YOU MUST WEAR A LIFE JACKET Between September 15 of last year and May 15, ALL persons in canoes and kayaks must be WEARING lifejackets. Most boating fatalities in Massachusetts are due to accidents in small craft in cold water/cold weather situations and failure to wear personal flotation devices (PFD). Life jackets float, you don't!

• Have You Noticed the Wild Things on Your State Tax Form?! Since 1983, Massachusetts tax filers have had the option to donate to the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Fund while filing their state income tax form.(Line 32) When you contribute to the fund, you help to protect and restore rare and endangered animals, plants, and their habitats. Your past donations have helped conserve and restore in the Commonwealth populations of the Bald Eagle, Hessel's Hairstreak butterfly, the Redbelly Turtle, and the beautiful Eastern Silvery Aster. Donations to the Fund may also be made year round by sending a check made out: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Fund and sent to: MassWildlife Field HQ, NHESP, 1 Rabbit Hill Rd Westborough MA 01581 Learn more about the work the Fund supports!

• March 4--Project WILD Workshop For Educators, Westborough--The Westborough Community Land Trust invites all educators to participate in this exciting workshop! The Project WILD workshop is a series of wildlife activities workshops designed for all educators who work with kids of all ages and who want hands-on, interdisciplinary activities focusing on wildlife, people and the environment. Participants experience useful wildlife activities, receive the Project WILD Guides and other wildlife materials. Scout leaders, youth group leaders as well as classroom teachers find the materials and workshop experience very valuable. PDP's are available to classroom teachers. Workshops are led by MassWildlife's Project WILD volunteer facilitators. Pre-registration is required. Contact Carol Burt Borglund, Facilitator at 508/366-4118 or email her at carolburttborg@aol.com.

• March 4--MassWildife at the 14th Mass Audubon Birders Meeting, Waltham-- Join birders from around the state to learn about bird trends, atlases and hear a keynote speaker on the Ivory Billed Woodpecker. MassWildlife's Tern Restoration Manager, Carolyn Mostello will be offering a talk on the "History and Restoration of Terns in Buzzards Bay". Registration deadline for this meeting is February 28.

• March 4--MassWildlife at Mass. Association of Conservation Commissions Annual Conference, Worcester--Over 1000 Conservation Commissioners, other local officials, state and federal environmental officials, consultants, attorneys and others enjoy a full day of activities. MassWildlife's Senior Environmental Review staff person, Dr. Jon Regosin will be presenting a session on Endangered Species Regulation in Massachusetts. Over 40 workshop and training sessions are offered, all taught by recognized experts. There are over 40 exhibits and displays. MassWildlife will be represented in the exhibit area. State and federal agencies, and providers of environmental products and services find the Annual Environmental Conference to be a great opportunity to reach a large number of conservation minded citizens.

• March 5 -- Basic Ice Fishing Clinic, Otter River (Templeton) -- Want to learn about "hard water" fishing? Beginning anglers of all ages are encouraged to attend this workshop which will be taught by instructors from MassWildlife's Angler Education Program. This clinic is hosted by the Otter River Sportsmen's Club. Learn basic techniques and how to handle the equipment needed to go ice fishing. The second day will include an ice fishing excursion (weather and ice safety permitting). The course is free. Equipment will be provided, but anyone with equipment is welcome to bring it. Contact the Jim Lagacy, MassWildlife Angler Education Coordinator at 508/389-6300 . THIS CLINIC WAS PREVIOUSLY LISTED FOR FEBRUARY 18.

• March 6 - April 7 -- Quack, quack! Junior Duck Stamp Traveling Art Exhibit at the Millworks Gallery, Uxbridge-- Bring your family to see top youth entries in the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp Contest. The Duck Stamp contest is modeled after the adult versions of both the state and federal duck stamp competitions. Youth of all ages are encouraged to learn about waterfowl and the importance of wetlands through this conservation contest. Sponsored by MassWildlife, the Massachusetts Wildlife Federation, Mass. Waterfowler's Association Ducks Unlimited-Mass Chapter, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Boston Duck Tours. More info on Junior Duck Stamp Program. . For further information on the exhibit, contact: Joel Delorey 508/278-0553.

• Peregrine falcons return to establish their territories. Peregrines can migrate as far away as South America, but the falcons which nest here in Massachusetts probably don't go very far south.

• March 8--Last day of Bobcat hunting season. See the 2006 Hunting and Fishing Abstracts .

• March 8 -- Mass. Environmental Education Society Annual Conference, Holy Cross College, Worcester This statewide conference attracts classroom teachers, youth group leaders, state and park naturalists and other environmental educators from not only Massachusetts but other New England states. You must pre-register--walk-ins are not permitted.

• March 8-- Peregrines Falcons in Worcester-- Peregrine falcons, the world's fastest birds, were once on the endangered species list and major efforts were made by states, birders and other conservation minded groups to bring them back. Now, this bird is considered threatened and a number of pairs are now residing in Massachusetts, including Worcester! Learn about peregrine falcons, their restoration to Massachusetts and other states from MassWildlife's Dr. Tom French at the MassAudubon Broadmeadow Brook Sanctuary on Massasoit Road at 7 PM. A registration fee will be charged. For more information, contact the Broadmeadow Brook Sanctuary at 508/753-6087.

• March 9-- Living with Coyotes, Amherst -- Coyotes originally moved into the central and western regions of Massachusetts in the 1950s, and they are now well established statewide. As coyotes become a more visible part of the landscape, numerous questions arise. What do they eat? Are our pets safe? Do they carry diseases that are a threat to humans? Because coyotes are very resourceful and utilize so many different food sources, they are adapted to live in a variety of habitats including heavily populated areas. Trina Moruzzi, MassWildlife Biologist will give a program about coyotes, dispel myths and offer tips on the “Do's and Don’ts” of living with these animals at the Hitchcock Center for the Environment. This presentation begins at 7PM and requires a small registration fee. To pre-register, contact the Hitchcock Center at 413/256-6006. The Hitchcock Center is handicapped accessible.

• March 10-12 -- MassWildlife at the World Flyfishing Expo, Wilmington--Buy your license and talk with MassWildlife staff about fishing and hunting opportunities and outdoor skills courses and clinics. For more information on the show, contact Expo at 1/800-227-2067 or www.sportshows.com

• March 11-Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference, Worcester - This statewide conference draws over 300 land trust members and other land protection specialists. Sponsored by the Massachusetts Land Trust the The Trustees of Reservations this year's conference will focus on "Conserving Land and Community". Through workshops, discussions and informal gatherings, this conference provides anyone interested in land conservation with the knowledge, skills and connections needed to be effective. Registration deadline is March 6. Registration materials or contact Miriam Meyer-Scagnetti at 978-840-440 x1935.

• March 11--Project WILD and Aquatic WILD Workshop For Educators, Belmont--MassAudubon's Habitat Institute in Belmont invites all educators to participate in this exciting workshop! The Project WILD workshop is a series of wildlife activities workshops designed for all educators who work with kids of all ages and who want hands-on, interdisciplinary activities focusing on wildlife, people and the environment. Participants experience useful wildlife activities, receive the Project WILD Guides and other wildlife materials. Scout leaders, youth group leaders as well as classroom teachers find the materials and workshop experience very valuable. PDP's are available to classroom teachers. Workshops are led by MassWildlife's Project WILD volunteer facilitators. Pre-registration is required. Contact Jane Higgins, MassAudubon at (617) 489-5050.

• March 11--Project WILD and Wonders of Wetlands (WOW) Workshop For Educators, Dighton--All area educators are invited to participate in this exciting workshop at the Bristol County Agricultural School! The Project WILD workshop is a series of wildlife activities workshops designed for all educators who work with kids of all ages and who want hands-on, interdisciplinary activities focusing on wildlife, people and the environment. Participants experience useful wildlife activities, receive the Project WILD Guides and other wildlife materials. WOW activities and materials relating to wetlands will also be part of this special workshop. Scout leaders, youth group leaders as well as classroom teachers find the materials and workshop experience very valuable. PDP's are available to classroom teachers. Workshops are led by MassWildlife's Project WILD volunteer facilitators. Pre-registration is required. Contact Amy Nelson (617) 922-3318.

• March 12, 19 -- Introductory Fly Tying Clinic, Shutesbury -- Learn the basics of flytying at the Public Library from Angler Education Program Instructors. The clinic time is 3:30- 5:30 PM. Space is limited to 8 people who are 10 years old or over. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-register is required. Contact the library at 413/259-1213.

• March 15--Deadline for Youth Artists' Submission to the Junior Duck Stamp Program!--This conservation education program is designed to stimulate awareness and personal involvement in waterfowl & wetland conservation for students in grades K-12 through a student art project. If you are a student or know of a student who loves to draw, color or paint, this is for him or her! Contact Pam Landry at 508-389-6300 by this date to get on a mailing list to receive materials and information about the program.

• March 15, 22, 29 and April 5 -- Basic Fly Fishing Course, Shrewsbury-- Learn the basics of fly fishing from Angler Education Volunteers and members of the Central Mass. Trout Unlimited Chapter. The program runs from 7 - 9 PM. Co-sponsored by the Shrewsbury Recreation Department. Pre-registration is required and space is limited to 15 people ages 12 and older. Equipment will be provided. Pre-register by contacting the Recreation Department at 508/841-8339.

• March 15, 22, 29 --Basic Freshwater Fishing Course, Wilmington -- Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free clinic co-sponsored by the Wilmington Recreation Department and will be held from 6:30-8:30 PM. Equipment is already provided. .MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free clinic. For more information, contact Wilmington Recreation Department at 978/658-4270.

• March 17, Deadline forWatershed Workshop for Teachers, Lowell, March 25--Middle school teachers in Lowell, Lawrence, Haverhill and other communities bordering the Merrimack River are invited to a one-day workshop taught by MassWildlife Environmental Educators and Merrimcack River Watershed Council staff where teachers will learn watershed and environmental educational activities and assignments to incorporate into their curriculum specific to the Merrimack River Watershed.

• Skunk cabbage emerges. This plants appearance heralds the end of winter and beginning of spring. Hungry bears, just emerging from their winter dens seek out wetlands to feed on this first green food of the year.

• March 21 -- Arrival of the vernal equinox--The official first day of spring occurs on or about this day. Night and daylight hours are equal in length.

• March 25--Watershed Workshop for Teachers, Lowell--Middle school teachers in Lowell, Lawrence, Haverhill and other communities bordering the Merrimack River are invited to a one-day workshop taught by MassWildlife Environmental Educators and Merrimcack River Watershed Council staff where teachers will learn watershed and environmental educational activities and assignments to incorporate into their curriculum specific to the Merrimack River Watershed. Course includes Project WET and Project Aquatic WILD Curriculums and Guides. Participants will receive: MRWC's River Connection Curriculum Guide, which includes interdisciplinary watershed education curriculum (science, social studies, math, and English), Project WET Curriculum Guide, Project Aquatic WILD Curriculum Guide and a certificate of attendance for the 8-hour workshop. Registration fee is $45. Registration Deadline: March 17, 2006 For More Information: Contact Christine Tabak by phone 978/275-0120 ext. 15 or e-mail ctabak@merrimack.org.

• March 26 -- Introductory Fly Casting Clinic, Shutesbury -- Learn the basics of casting a flyline at the Public Library from Angler Education Program Instructors. The clinic time is 3:30- 5:30 PM. Space is limited to 8 people who are 10 years old or over. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-register is required. Contact the library at 413/259-1213.

• March 28--Fisheries & Wildlife Board Meeting, Buzzards Bay--This meeting will be held after an event honoring the Francis W. Sargent Conservation award recipient, Russell Cookingham of Monument Beach. The event begins at 1PM with Lt. Governor Kerry Healy attending at the Canal Sportsmen's Club, 324 Main Street, Buzzards Bay. The even and the subsequent Board meeting are open to the public and media. These public meetings provide Board members with information from MassWildlife on wildlife and related topics and issues across the state. One item on this month's agenda will be a presentation on the Hunter Education Program.

• March 31 -- MassWildlife Outdoorswoman Exhibit at Wild Turkey Fundraiser, Spencer -- The Central Massachusetts Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation is holding its annual banquet/fundraiser at the Spencer Country Inn. The Massachusetts Becoming an Outdoorswoman Program will host an table top exhibit about the program for interested women. For more info about the banquet and to purchase tickets, contact: Warren Monette at 508/885-4432 or email him at: WAM9357@AOL.COM

• Garter snakes beginning their breeding season One of the earliest snakes to emerge from hibernation, the garter snake is probably our most common snake. Generally, these snakes breed at or near their hibernation site.

April

• April 1-Daily creel limits for Brook, Brown, Rainbow & Tiger Trout increase in certain waters. Click here to view the MassWildlife Hunting & Fishing abstracts .

• April 1--CANOEING? KAYAKING? YOU MUST WEAR A LIFE JACKET Between September 15 of last year and May 15, ALL persons in canoes and kayaks must be WEARING lifejackets. Most boating fatalities in Massachusetts are due to accidents in small craft such as this in cold water/cold weather situations.

• Don't Forget to Go Wild With Your State Tax Form! Since 1983, Massachusetts tax filers have had the option to donate to the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Fund while filing their state income tax form.(Line 32) When you contribute to the fund, you help to protect and restore rare and endangered animals, plants, and their habitats. Your past donations have helped conserve and restore in the Commonwealth populations of the Bald Eagle, Hessel's Hairstreak butterfly, the Redbelly Turtle, and the beautiful Eastern Silvery Aster. Donations to the Fund may also be made year round by sending a check made out: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Fund and sent to: MassWildlife Field HQ, NHESP, 1 Rabbit Hill Rd Westborough MA 01581 Learn more about the work the Fund supports!

• Help MassWildlife restore Atlantic salmon by volunteering to stock salmon fry (juvenile fish) in the tributaries of the Connecticut River! Due to budget constraints, volunteers are needed to wade up streams and small rivers to bring young fish to a new home throughout mid-April through mid-May. Bring your friends and family! Stocking schedule, directions, meeting site information & other pertinent details are now posted..

• April 1--Natural Communities Symposium, Easton -- Join Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences and MassWildlife for a half-day symposium on the natural communities of Massachusetts and surrounding states. The symposium will take place at Stonehill College from 8 AM - 12:30 PM. Participants will gain knowledge about protecting biodiversity through the natural communities concept from those who have designed natural community classification systems throughout the northeast and others who have applied these concepts on the ground. A highly regarded panel of conservation biologists, botanists, and others who will discuss regional natural community classifications, and how these are being applied to conservation and land management. For details on speakers and topics, as well as symposium updates, please visit www.conservationmapper.org. This symposium is free, thanks, in part, to a grant from the Massachusetts Environmental Trust. Space is limited and the deadline for registration is March 22nd. To register, or for additional information, contact: Beth Brazil at Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, (508) 224-6521 or bbrazil@manomet.org.

• April 1-- MassWildlife at Project S.A.I.L's 6th Annual Nature Day, Sandwich -- Take the family to enjoy a day of nature activities, food and crafts at the Oak Ridge Elementary School. MassWildlife's Sandwich Hatchery staff will be providing information about fish, coyotes and fisher at their exhibit. Many nature activities and exhibits for families to enjoy will be present. For more information contact Project SAIL by emailing Susan at Susan@projectsail.org or call her at 508/888-2620. $2 admission fee.

• April 1 & 8--Project WILD Workshop For Educators, Uxbridge--All educators in the area are invited to participate in this exciting workshop at the West Hill Dam in Uxbridge! The Project WILD workshop is a series of wildlife activities workshops designed for all educators who work with kids of all ages and who want hands-on, interdisciplinary activities focusing on wildlife, people and the environment. Participants experience useful wildlife activities, receive the Project WILD Guides and other wildlife materials. Scout leaders, youth group leaders as well as classroom teachers find the materials and workshop experience very valuable. PDP's are available to classroom teachers. Workshops are led by MassWildlife's Project WILD volunteer facilitators. Pre-registration is required. Contact Viola Bramel (978) 318-8417.

• April 2--Springtime Shenanigans, Harvard -- Do you know what a vernal pool is and why it is do fragile and life giving? Did you ever hear a frog that quacks like a duck? Have you ever seen a yellow spotted salamander? Do you know that amphibians have a congress? Come find out all about our secretive four-legged creatures that are our neighbors. Join Patricia Huckery, District Manager, Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and Rona Balco, Friends of the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge at the Fruitlands Museum from 2 - 4:30 PM for a lively talk and tour of the vernal pools found at Fruitlands and the Oxbow. No charge. There will also be time in the field observing activity in a nearby vernal pool so be sure to dress for the weather and wet conditions. There is no charge for this activity! For more information, contact the Fruitlands Museum at 978/ 456-3924 X239

• April 3, 10, 24, May 1 -- Basic Freshwater Fishing Class, Shrewsbury-- Enjoy the great outdoor activity of fishing with family and friends! Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free class co-sponsored by the Shrewsbury Parks & Recreation Department will be taking place at the Spring Street School from 7 PM - 9 PM. Equipment is already provided. .MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free class. To pre-register, contact the Shrewsbury Parks and Recreation Department at 508/841-8339.

• April 6 -- Rare Species of the Taunton River, Dighton -- Join Lynn Harper, MassWildlife Habitat Protection Specialist, and John Torgan of Save the Bay, who will be giving a presentation about the rare wildlife that is found in the Taunton River. Hosted by the Taunton River Watershed Alliance, the program begins at 7 PM and will be held at the Bristol County Agricultural High School in Dighton.

• April 6, 13, 27, May 4 -- Basic Freshwater Fishing Class, Lexington-- Enjoy the great outdoor activity of fishing with family and friends! Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free class co-sponsored by the Lexington Recreation Department and will be taking place at the Rec. Department from 6:30- 8:30 PM. Equipment is already provided. MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free class. To pre-register, contact Al Knod, 781/270-7035.

• April 6, 13, 20, 27--Basic Freshwater Fishing Class, Holyoke- Enjoy the great outdoor activity of fishing with family and friends! Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free class co-sponsored by the Department of Conservation and Recreationand will be taking place at the Holyoke Heritage State Park from 6:00- 8:00 PM. Equipment is already provided. MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free class. Pre-registration is REQUIRED. To pre-register, contact Jim Lagacy, MassWildlife 508/389-6300.

• April 8--Instructor Training Workshop for Anglers, Westborough-- MassWildlife Needs Anglers Who Want to Teach Others! MassWildlife's Angler Education Program is looking for more than a few good instructors to pass on the great pastime of fishing. Men and women of all ages who enjoy fishing and enjoy sharing their knowledge and passion for this activity are encouraged to attend this workshop. It is a free, full day course that certifies Angler Education Program Instructors who work in teams to offer fishing clinics, courses and fishing festivals throughout the state. The Progam is especially in need of people from the Southern Berkshires, Upper Connecticut Valley, North Shore, Southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod. Pre-registration required. Contact Angler Education Program Coordinator Jim Lagacy at 508/389-6300.

• April 8--Aquatic WILD and Wonders of Wetlands (WOW) Workshop For Educators, Easthampton--All area educators are invited to participate in this exciting workshop at MassAudubon's Arcadia Sanctuary! The Aquatic WILD workshop is a series of wildlife activities workshops designed for all educators who work with kids of all ages and who want hands-on, interdisciplinary activities focusing on aquatic wildlife, people and the aquatic environment. Participants experience useful wildlife activities, receive the Project WILD Guides and other wildlife materials. WOW activities and materials relating to wetlands will also be part of this special workshop. Scout leaders, youth group leaders as well as classroom teachers find the materials and workshop experience very valuable. PDP's are available to classroom teachers. Workshops are led by MassWildlife's Project WILD volunteer facilitators. Pre-registration is required. Contact Kim Noyes at Northfield Mountain at (800) 859-2960 or email her at noyesgk@nu.com.

• On warm rainy nights, watch for spotted salamanders migrating to vernal pools to lay their eggs. Spring peepers should be in full chorus by now.

• April 10-Crow season ends. Click here to view the MassWildlife Hunting & Fishing Abstracts .

• April 11--Beaver Talk, Lancaster -- Join Colleen Olfenbuttel, MassWildlife Furbearer Biologist, who will use images and hands on artifacts to cover information on the natural history of beaver, their beneficial characteristics and how human conflicts may be resolved in helpful ways. The program is free and will be held at the Thayer Memorial Library at 7 PM on 717 Main Street (Rte 70) in Lancaster Center. For more information, call the Library at 978/368-8928.

• April 13 -- Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Advisory Committee Meeting, MassWildlife Field Headquarters- Held on the second Thursday of every month except August, this meeting is open to the public. Topics on non-game and endangered species will be covered, an update on agency activities will be part of the agenda. The Committee makes recommendations on these issues to the Fisheries & Wildlife Board. 1:30 - 4:00 PM . Discussion on staff reccomendations relative to listing or delisting species from the Endangered Species list will be part of the agenda.

• April 12, 19, 26 -- Basic Freshwater Fishing Class, Sharon-- Enjoy the great outdoor activity of fishing with family and friends! Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free class co-sponsored by the Sharon Recreation Department and will be taking place at the Rec. Department from 6:30- 8:30 PM. Equipment is already provided. MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free class. To pre-register, contact Al Knod, 781/784-1530.

• April 13 -- Public Comment Needed on Forest Conservation Management Practicies for Rare Species, Sturbridge. The public is encouraged to attend a public review meeting regarding forestry conservation management practices that have been developed for state-listed species that are protected under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) and occur in forested habitats. The meeting will be held at the Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center from 6:30-9:00 PM. For more details, click here. Background: Forestry Conservation Management Practices (CMPs) are specific, science-based guidelines for conducting timber harvesting within known habitats for species protected under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA). The goal of the CMPs is to protect state-listed species populations and maintain their habitats for long-term population viability, while providing for the sustainable management of Massachusetts forestlands. Private and public forest landowners and managers will benefit from “up front” information about mitigation that will ultimately be needed for approval of Forest Cutting Plans (FCPs) that occur in habitat for state-listed rare species. In the past, FCPs involving state-listed species have sometimes been returned to landowners with unanticipated requirements for mitigation that altered timing of harvesting operations, changed harvest volumes, and/or revised stream and wetland crossings. Landowners typically support conservation of state-listed species but they also need the ability to maintain their land in forest use by periodically harvesting renewable wood products. The CMPs describe how harvesting can occur so that state-listed species are conserved.

• April 15- Beaver trapping season ends. Click here to view the MassWildlife Trapping & Furbearer Management Regulations.

• April 15--SAVE SOMETHING RARE ON YOUR STATE TAX FORM !! Donate to MassWildlife's Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program on your tax form. Don't Forget to Go Wild With Your State Tax Form! Since 1983, Massachusetts tax filers have had the option to donate to the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Fund while filing their state income tax form.(Line 32) When you contribute to the fund, you help to protect and restore rare and endangered animals, plants, and their habitats. Your past donations have helped conserve and restore in the Commonwealth populations of the Bald Eagle, Hessel's Hairstreak butterfly, the Redbelly Turtle, and the beautiful Eastern Silvery Aster. Donations to the Fund may also be made year round by sending a check made out: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Fund and sent to: MassWildlife Field HQ, NHESP, 1 Rabbit Hill Rd Westborough MA 01581. Learn more about the work the Fund supports!

• Long tailed weasels, are bearing their young at this time. The young were conceived last July or August!

• April 23 -- Kids Casting at Earth Day Festival, Springfield Science Museum--Celebrate Earth Day at the Springfield Science Museum. MassWildlife Angler Education volunteers will be demonstrating and helping teach others how to cast a line along with other fishing skills. 11AM - 4 PM. For more information, call: 413/263-6800.

• April 24--Opening day of Seasons #1and #2 for Wild turkey -- See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones. This is a pdf file.

• April 25--Restoring Massachusetts Rivers: Habitat and Fluvial Fish-- Todd Richards, Fisheries Biologist at MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, will outline what MassWildlife is doing to identify issues and set goals for restoration in Commonwealth waters. His responsibilities vary from small stream fisheries assessments to large reservoir management. If you want to know more about MA river fisheries Todd is THE ONE to hear from. The program is from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at the NRWA River Resource Center, 592 Main Street (Rt. 119), Groton. This presentation is free and open to the public. For more information, please call NRWA at (978) 448-0299, or e-mail alfutterman@NashuaRiverWatershed.org

• April 27-Fisheries & Wildlife Board Meeting and Public Hearing-The Fisheries and Wildlife Board meeting will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the Nashua River Watershed Association, 592 Main Street, (Rte. 119), Groton. A Public Hearing will be held at 1:00 P.M. at the same location on Thursday, April 27, 2006, relative to rules and regulations amending the Massachusetts list of endangered, threatened, and special concern species and the "exemption list" of species which require a permit to possess.
• April 29 -- Fishing Event at Harold Parker State Forest, Andover -- Sponsored by the Andover Sportsmen's Club, families are invited to this free derby to try their luck. MassWildlife Angler Education volunteers will be assisting at the event. Equipment will be provided, but if you have it, bring it along! For more information, contact: Al Knod at 781/270-7035.

• May 1--CANOEING? KAYAKING? YOU MUST WEAR A LIFE JACKET Between September 15 of last year and May 15, ALL persons in canoes and kayaks must be WEARING lifejackets. Most boating fatalities in Massachusetts are due to accidents in small craft such as this in cold water/cold weather situations.

• May 1, 8, 15, 22-- Basic Freshwater Fishing Class, North Adams-- Enjoy the great outdoor activity of fishing with family and friends! Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free class co-sponsored by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and will be taking place at the Western Gateway Heritage State Park from 6:00- 8:00 PM. Equipment is already provided. MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free class. To pre-register, contact the Park at 413/663-6312.

• May 3, 10, 17, 24-- Basic Freshwater Fishing Class, Turners Falls (Montague)-- Enjoy the great outdoor activity of fishing with family and friends! Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free class co-sponsored by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and will be taking place at the Great Falls Discovery Center from 6:00- 8:00 PM. Equipment is already provided. MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free class. To pre-register, contact Great Falls Discovery Center at 413/863-3676.

• Red spotted newts are laying eggs during this time. The adults live in water, but the young, when they hatch crawl onto land, living in moist areas on land from 2-7 years. Look for the bright orange red young called "red efts" after periods of rain, moving about on the forest floor. When they return to the water, they become aquatic, turning green with small bright red spots.

• March marigolds are in bloom in swamps and other wetland streams.

• The leaves on many trees are just beginning to open. Red maple flower blooms are giving way to small red leaves that will green up by the end of the month.

• May 7--Last day of Season #2 for Wild turkey (Southeastern counties).  See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones.

• Warblers migrate through in waves across the Bay State. The "teens of May" are said to the best time of year to watch these small but colorful birds pass through the state. Some have traveled from as far away as Central and South America. A number of these bird populations are declining, to the consternation of scientists and bird lovers. Click here for information about local bird club links. Many clubs offer birdwalks for beginners as well as experts.

• May 7-14th Annual Horn Pond Family Fishing Festival, Woburn -- This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. On the shores of Horn Pond, cast a line, learn about fish in our waters, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. No equipment is needed, but if you have your own, bring it along! 9AM - 1:00 PM The festival is in cooperation with the the Woburn Elks and Decathlon USA. For more information contact the Decathlon @ 781-270-9200 or the MassWildlife Angler Education Program 508/389-6300.

• May 11 -- Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Advisory Committee Meeting, MassWildlife Field Headquarters- Held on the second Thursday of every month except August, this meeting is open to the public. Topics on non-game and endangered species will be covered, an update on agency activities will be part of the agenda. The Committee makes recommendations on these issues to the Fisheries & Wildlife Board. 1:30 - 4:00 PM .

• May 13-- Wildlife Management Area Access Dedication, Dartmouth -- The public is invited to a dedication of an access into the Dartmoor Farms WMA at 11 AM at the parking lot on Division Road. The access will be named in honor of Jim Kennedy of Dartmouth, a sportsman who has devoted his time to protecting wildlife habitat for wildlife, served as an officer and director for several sporting organizations, judging field trials and collecting samples for the Acid Rain Monitoring Project. A reception at the Paskamansett Beagle Club on Lucy Little Road will follow the event. The event is occurring rain or shine.

• May 13 -- Birding and Wildlife, Devens -- Join the Friends of Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge and MassWildlife Outreach Coordinator Marion Larson on a wildlife and birding walk at the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge. Meet at the Refuge parking area off MacPherson Rd just north of Rte 2A in Ayer. The walk is free. Please wear sturdy footgear, bring mosquito repellant, binoculars and a sense of adventure! Rain date is set for May 20. Call Tim Prior at 978/534-3467.

• May 15 -- Living With Wildlife in Your Neighborhood, Norton - Join the Chartley Garden Club as they host a presentation by Marion Larson, MassWildlife Outreach Coordinator on the wild creatures who live in the area. She'll talk about gardening for wildlife as well as options when some kinds of wildlife cause problems for gardeners and other homeowners. Find out how to keep wild things wild! The presentation is free, but donations to MassWildlife are encouraged. The program will be held at the Norton Public Library on 68 Main St (Rte 123). For more information, contact Laura Dean, Chartley Garden Club, at 508/285-3068.

• May 16--Smelt season re-opens and may only be taken by hook and line. See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones.

• May 20--Cass Meadow Workday and Field Trip with MassWildlife, Athol-- Join MassWildlife's Upland Habitat Restoration Specialist Jill Liske-Clark, and others from the Athol Bird and Nature Club on a workday from 9:00 AM until Noon. Since the buckthorn was removed from the meadow by Club member Bruce Scherer and his intrepid tractor a lot of debris was exposed. Jill will guide participants on a walk around the restored meadow followed by a gathering of the trash exposed by the mowing. Bring binoculars, gloves and a sense of fun and adventure. Meet at the meadow entrance at the Corner of Pindale and Pequoig Avenues in Athol. Contact Jill with any questions: Jill.Liske-Clark@state.ma.us

• May 20--Last day of Season #1 for Wild turkey -- See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones.

• May 21 -- 5 Mile Pond Family Fishing Festival, Springfield--This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. On the shores of Five Mile Pond, cast a line, learn about fish in our waters, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. No equipment is needed, but if you have your own, bring it along! 9 AM - 2 PM The festival is in cooperation with the Pine Point Community Council and the Springfield Parks and Recreation Department. For more information contact: Jim Lagacy, Angler Education 508/389-6300.

• Chipmunks are bearing their young at this time. Chipmunks breed up to twice a year with a litter size of anywhere from 1-8 young. They eat all kinds of seeds, fruits, nuts, bulbs, insects, meat and eggs. Chipmunks are diurnal, meaning they are mostly active during the day. "Chippies" are found mostly in woodlands or along edges of woodlands with ample cover such as logs, stone walls and brushy undergrowth.

• May 23 -Fisheries & Wildlife Board Meeting and Public Hearing-The Fisheries and Wildlife Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. at the Tisbury Town Hall, 51 Spring Street, Vineyard Haven, Martha's Vineyard.. A Public Hearing will be held at 1:30 P.M. at the same location on Tuesday, May 23, 2006, relative to rules and regulations regarding the hunting of deer on Martha's Vineyard. For more information, contact Julie Delaney at 508/389-6300.

• Peregrine falcon chicks are about 3 weeks old by this time. MassWildlife staff will be banding the chicks during this time period. There are currently 4 pairs of Peregrine falcons nesting in Massachusetts; 2 pairs in Boston (one on the Custom House Tower, the other at the Christian Science Church), 1 pair on Monarch Place in Springfield and 1 pair under the Braga Bridge in Fall River.

June

Take note: Certain links in this calendar will get you to a PDF formatted file. You need Adobe Acrobat Reader to read those files. Click here to find out more about PDF files and how to get the free Adobe Acrobat Reader.

• This month, MassWildlife district staff will be mowing fields, putting up new signs, collecting information on fish in streams and ponds and picking up litter and dumped trash left by abusers of our wildlife lands. Help keep our wildlands litter free. Report dumping violations to the Environmental Police at 1/800-632-8075.

• June 3 & 4--FREE FISHING WEEKEND! Take a friend or family member fishing! No fishing license needed during these two days! Fishing license fees support fisheries research, angler education, fish stocking programs and many other services provided by MassWildlife. If you don't know how to fish, consider attending the fishing festivals or other fishing related activities this and next month! All Angler Education programs and festivals are free and don't require a fishing license for fishing. Check out the various events in the calendar for families to participate!

• June 3--Family Fishing Day, Turners Falls (Montague) -- This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. On the shores of the Connecticut River, cast a line, learn about fish, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. MassWildlife is providing equipment, but if you have your own, bring it along! 10 AM -2 PM. The event is coordinated by the Great Falls Discovery Center. For more information contact: 413/863-3676.

• June 3 - Buffumville Dam Family Fishing Festival, Oxford - This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. Cast a line, learn about fish in our waters, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. No equipment is needed, but if you have your own, bring it along!10 AM - 2 PM. Held at the Buffumville Dam, Army Corps of Engineers. Contact: Gene Hixon 508/248-5697.

• Turkey Brood Counts Needed! From June- August, district staff as well as interested citizens will be reporting on any broods of turkeys they see in their travels. If you would like to add information to MassWildlife's turkey brood survey, click here! (pdf)

• June 8--Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Advisory Committee Meeting, MassWildlife Field Headquarters - Held on the second Thursday of every month except August, this meeting is open to the public. Topics on non-game and endangered species will be covered, an update on agency activities will be part of the agenda. The Committee makes recommendations on these issues to the Fisheries & Wildlife Board. 1:30 - 4:00 PM .

• June 9 - 11 -- 11th Annual Becoming an OutdoorsWoman Weekend, Lenox--This weekend offers 25+ separate workshop options plus fun and activities for the full group. Sign up now--bring a friend or relative and have a great weekend at "Camp for Women"!!!

• June 11--Annual Spot Pond Family Fishing Festival, Stoneham -- This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. On the shores of Spot Pond, cast a line, learn about fish in our waters, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. No equipment is needed, but if you have your own, bring it along! 9 AM - 1 PM. The festival is in cooperation with the Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Stoneham Police Department.. For more information contact: Jim Lagacy, Angler Education 508/389-6300.

• June 14 and 15 --Project WILD and Aquatic WILD Workshop For Educators, Sharon--MassAudubon's Moose Hill Sanctuary invites all educators to participate in this exciting workshop! The Project WILD workshop is a series of wildlife activities workshops designed for all educators who work with kids of all ages and who want hands-on, interdisciplinary activities focusing on wildlife, people and the environment. Participants experience useful wildlife activities, receive the Project WILD Guides and other wildlife materials. Scout leaders, youth group leaders as well as classroom teachers find the materials and workshop experience very valuable. PDP's are available to classroom teachers. Workshops are led by MassWildlife's Project WILD volunteer facilitators. Pre-registration is required. Contact Kay Andberg , MassAudubon at (781)784-5691 or email her at kandberg@massaudubon.org

• Eastern Painted Turtles laying eggs at this time. Some may still be breeding as well. The eggs are usually laid in nest sites within a few yards of water. Anywhere from 2 - 11 eggs may be laid. They incubate for approximately 72-80 days, hatching sometime in late August through September. These turtles are easy to spot basking on logs on a warm, sunny day. Turtles are popular pets, but it is illegal to collect them from the wild. Many turtle species are threatened or endangered due to illegal collection from the wild. Do your part and respect the needs of these interesting creatures.

• June 17 - Family Fishing Festival at West Hill Dam, Uxbridge - This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. Cast a line, learn about fish in our waters, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. No equipment is needed, but if you have your own, bring it along! Held at the West Hill Dam by the Army Corps of Engineers from 10AM - 2PM. Contact: Viola Bramel 508/278-2511.

• June 21 -- Bears in Massachusetts, Petersham - Join Jim Cardoza, MassWildlife Bear Project Leader, who will be giving a presentation about black bears in Massachusetts. Hosted by the Petersham Memorial Library, this free program begins at 7 PM. Bring your favorite bear story or bear questions for Jim. The library is located on 23 Common Street in Petersham. For more information, call 968/724-3405.

• June 24--Reptiles and Amphibians of Wells State Park, Sturbridge -- Join MassWildlife biologist Pete Mirick and Bruce Ericson, local naturalist, to learn about the reptile and amphibians they have discovered on the park property. The presentation begins at 11 AM. For more information, call the park at 508/347-9257.

• June 27--Fisheries and Wildlife Board Meeting, Belchertown -- The Fisheries and Wildlife Board meeting will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the MassWildlife Connecticut Valley District office in Belchertown. A vote relative to rules and regulations regarding the hunting of deer on Martha's Vineyard is anticipated and a presentation on Antlerless Deer Permit allocations will be given. See Public Hearing Notice for more details. A Public Hearing will be held at 1:30 P.M. at the same location on Tuesday, June 27, 2006, relative to rules and regulations on lake trout.

• Black bear breeding season begins in mid-June and runs through mid-July. Unlike most animals, in bears, the fertilized egg (blastocyst) will float free for a number of months. If the female is well-nourished, the blastocyst implants in the uterine wall in late November and the small feeble cubs are born in the den in mid- to late January. Litter sizes range from 1 to 4 cubs, usually 2 or 3 in Massachusetts.

July

Take note: Certain links in this calendar will get you to a PDF formatted file. You need Adobe Acrobat Reader to read those files. Click here to find out more about PDF files and how to get the free Adobe Acrobat Reader.

• Quabbin Hunt Applications Available --The Dept. of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Division of Water Supply Protection has information and applications available about the Quabbin Deer Hunt. Contact the Quabbin Visitor's Center at 413/323-7221. Applications due to the DCR-Quabbin by August 15.

• July 1--Crow season opens. See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations.

• July 5--Two weeks left before the Antlerless Permit deadline for statewide antlerless deer permits! ALL DEER HUNTERS FOR ANY SEASON MUST HAVE A PERMIT TO TAKE AN ANTLERLESS DEER. Applications must be postmarked by July 16 in order to be included in the drawing of permits. The drawing will be held in early August.

• Shorebird Migration Begins. The first week of July heralds the southward migration for Least and Solitary Sandpipers as well as Short-billed Dowitchers who nested and raised young up north. These birds will pass through the Bay State on their flight to the southern states and the Caribbean.

• July 13--Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Advisory Committee Meeting, Westboro -- - Held at the MassWildlife Field Headquarters on the second Thursday of every month except August, this meeting is open to the public. 1:30 - 4:30 PM . Topics on non-game and endangered species will be covered, an update on agency activities will be part of the agenda. The Committee makes recommendations on these issues to the Fisheries & Wildlife Board. More on the Committee.

• July 15-Whitman's Pond Family Fishing Festival, Weymouth -- This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. On the shores of Whitman's Pond, cast a line, learn about fish in our waters, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. No equipment is needed, but if you have your own, bring it along! 10AM - 2:30 PM The festival is in cooperation with the Whitman's Pond Association, and other local sponsors. For more information contact Marie Feely@ 781/340-6976.

• July 16-- Antlerless Deer Permit deadline! ALL DEER HUNTERS FOR ANY SEASON MUST HAVE A PERMIT TO TAKE AN ANTLERLESS DEER. Applications must be postmarked by July 16 for the drawing of permits. Send to MassWildlife Westboro Field HQ, 1 Rabbit Hill Rd, Westboro, MA 01581 ATTN: Antlerless deer permit.  The antlerless deer permit drawing will be in early August.

• July 16--Season for Bullfrog and Green frog opens. See the See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones.

• July 19--Fishing Clinic at the Library, Northfield - This clinic is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. It will be held at the Dickenson Public Library 115 Main Street from 4PM - 7PM. For more information, contact Penny Betsold at 413/498-2455.

• Dragons and Damsels This is a peak month to observe adult dragonflies and damselflies. Dragonflies have wings set on their bodies much like an airplane, while damselfly wings are set up on their back-like dorsal fins of a fish. These creatures chase down their prey in the air and are chased by predators such as Sharp-shinned and Cooper's Hawks. Consider purchasing the Field Guide to Dragonflies and Damselflies of Massachusetts from MassWildlife.

• July 22 -- Foraging and Feasting on Wild Edibles for Outdoorswomen, Weston--Join Russ Cohen, expert forager and author, for a day gathering and enjoying Wild Edibles. Russ has offered 3 hour workshops at our popular Outdoorswoman weekends, but this will literally be a "soup to nuts" full day session learning about and gathering wild edibles in the mornining, then whipping them up into a delicious dinner later in the afternoon. Participants will sit down to enjoy the delicious results! Limited to 15 adult women participants. No refunds after July 16.

• July 22-Houghton's Pond Family Fishing Festival, Canton-- This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. On the shores of Houghton's Pond, cast a line, learn about fish in our waters, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. No equipment is needed, but if you have your own, bring it along! 10AM - 2:30 PM The festival is in cooperation with the the Department of Conservation and Recreation (Blue Hills Reservation), and Decathlon USA. For more information contact the Blue Hills Reservation @ 617/698-1802.

• July 25--Fisheries and Wildlife Board Meeting, Athol -- The Fisheries and Wildlife Board meeting will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the Miller's River Environmental Center, 100 Main Street, Athol. A vote relative to rules and regulations regarding the slot limit on lake trout in Quabbin is anticipated.

• July 25--Deer Management Presentation and Antlerless Deer Permit Drawing, Orange -- Join MassWildlife for the annual Antlerless Deer Permit drawing at the R.C. Mahar Regional High School, South Main Street (Rte. 122) in Orange from 7PM - 9PM. MassWildlife Deer Biologist, Bill Woytek will give a presentation on the deer management program. Interested citizens are encouraged to attend and ask questions.

• July 28-- Eagles in the Connecticut River Valley, Amherst -- Join Ralph Taylor, MassWildlife Conn. Valley Supervisor, at the Notch Visitor's Center and learn about the successful restoration of bald eagles to the Valley and the rest of the state. He will have photos of eagles, eagle banding and more! The program begins at 7PM and is open to the public. Please call the Notch Visitor's Center located off Rte 116 for more details at 413/253-2883.

• The Wood-lily, an uncommon find is easily seen and identified by its upright, bright red flowers. The more common Canada lily found in most counties also blooms at this time, but it produces nodding blooms of yellow, orange or orange-red.

• Fireflies are flickering! Over a dozen species of fireflies are found in fields and forests here in the Bay State For the most part, each species has its own code of blinking code to attract a member of the opposite sex. Some fireflies mimic another species code as a way to confuse an individual and will eat an unsuspecting firefly lured in by the mimic.

August

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• By this time, most Bullfrogs will have finished breeding. The eggs are laid at the time of breeding and take only a week to hatch! Bullfrog tadpoles hatching this summer will not become adults for another 2 years!

• August 1--Project WILD Workshop For Educators, Fall River--Educators are encouraged to sign up for a Project WILD workshop at the Fall River Heritage State Park! The Project WILD workshop is a series of wildlife activities workshops designed for all educators who work with kids of all ages and who want hands-on, interdisciplinary activities focusing on wildlife, people and the environment. Participants experience useful wildlife activities, receive the Project WILD Guides and other wildlife materials. Scout leaders, youth group leaders as well as classroom teachers find the materials and workshop experience very valuable. PDP's are available to classroom teachers. Workshops are led by MassWildlife's Project WILD volunteer facilitators. Pre-registration is required. Contact Karen Silvi, Facilitator at 508/675-5759.

• August 2-- Eagles in Massachusetts, Westport -- Join Jason Zimmer, MassWildlife Southeast District Supervisor, who will speak about nesting eagles in the region and the successful restoration effort to bring the nation's symbol back to Massachusetts. This talk will be held at the Westport Public Library on 408 Old County Road and is sponsored by the Friends of the Westport Library and is open to the public free of charge. Refreshments will be served. For further information, cal 508/636-1100.

• August 3-- Bears in Massachusetts, Royalston - Join Jim Cardoza, MassWildlife Bear Biologist, who will be giving a presentation about black bears in Massachusetts. Hosted by the Trustees of Reservations at the Tully Lake Campground, this program begins at 6 PM. Bring your favorite bear story or bear questions for Jim. For more information, call 978/248-9455.

• August 4 --Two weeks left before the deadline for Quabbin deer permits! Applications must be postmarked by August 15 for the drawing of permits. Quabbin applications are available at MDC offices and MassWildlife District Offices.

• August 4 -- Moose in Massachusetts, Amherst -- Join Ralph Taylor, MassWildlife Conn. Valley Supervisor, at the Notch Visitor's Center and learn about how moose have come to the Valley and other parts of the state. Find out what to do if you see a moose! The program begins at 7PM and is open to the public. Please call the Notch Visitor's Center located off Rte 116 for more details at 413/253-2883.

• The small purple flowers of several native mountain-mints are blooming at this time. The dried leaves from these plants can be used to make flavored teas.

• August 8 -- Waquoit Bay Watershed Block Party, Falmouth -- Activities, Booths, and Refreshments celebrating the Waquoit Bay Watershed--hosted by the Waquoit Bay Estuarine Reserve. Bring a picnic, check out the MassWildlife display at the party and particpate in some of the hands-on activities. In case of rain, programs will be held under a tent or indoors. For more information, call 508/457-0495.

• August 9 -- Peter Rabbit's Annual Animal Day, Sandwich --Held at the Thornton W. Burgess Society Museum, Route 130, from 10 am - 2 pm. This day of family fun with live animal exhibits, a pet rabbit show, MassWildlife exhibit, story times, and personal appearances by Peter Rabbit, Reddy Fox and Smokey Bear. Refreshments are available. Free admission.

• August 18-- Bears in Massachusetts, Charlemont - Join Jim Cardoza, MassWildlife Bear Biologist, who will be giving a presentation about black bears in Massachusetts. Hosted by the Mohawk Trail State Park campground, this program begins at 7 PM. Bring your favorite bear story or bear questions for Jim! A parking fee will be required of people coming to the park specifically for the presentation. Campers are free. For more information, call Sheila Evans at the state park at 413/339-5504.

• August 19-- Beavers in Massachusetts, Amherst -- Beavers and people share a common trait--they can change their habitat to suit their needs. Learn more about this fascinating aquatic engineer from MassWildlife Furbearer Biologist, Colleen Olfenbuttel, as she explains the benefits of beaver ponds and how to avoid problems with or deal with beavers that may have chosen an area that is seriously impacting people. This free public program will be held at the Holyoke Range State Park Notch Visitor's Center and begins at 7PM. Please call the Notch Visitor's Center located off Rte 116 for more details at 413/253-2883.

• August 18 - 27 -- MassWildlife at the Marshfield Fair, Marshfield -- A display with information about common wildlife will be set up at the Marshfield fair. Pick up some new information about the wildlife in your area! Click here for more information on the Marshfield Fair.

• August 22 -- Wildlife in Your Back Yard, Sutton -- Learn about some of the common wildlife that can be spotted in your neighborhood or your own back yard! Join Pam Landry, MassWildlife Education Coordinator at the Purgatory Chasm State Reservation as she gives a demonstration on this topic from 1-2 PM. For more information, contact the reservation at: 508 234-3733

• August 23 -- Baseline Monitoring of Conservation Lands Workshop, Petersham --Land trust members and other land conservation related entities are invited to attend a one-day workshop entitled, "Baseline Monitoring of Conservation Lands," which will emphasize the new Massachusetts State Specifications, including new methods and data needed for baseline documentation, to be held 10 am - 4 pm at Harvard Forest's Fisher Museum 324 North Main Street (Rte 32), rain or shine. Speakers are Phil Truesdell, MassWildlife and Nick Holland, Land Stewardship, Inc. Pre-registration is needed by August 15th to Elizabeth Farnsworth, Mount Grace's Stewardship Ecologist, at farnsworth@mountgrace.org.

• August 25, 2006--Aquatic Project WILD Workshop For Educators, Fall River--Educators are encouraged to sign up for an Aquatic Project WILD workshop at the Fall River Heritage State Park! This WILD workshop is a series of wildlife activities workshops designed for all educators who work with kids of all ages and who want hands-on, interdisciplinary activities focusing on aquatic wildlife, people and the aquatic environment. Participants experience useful wildlife activities, receive the Aquatic Project WILD Guides and other wildlife materials. Scout leaders, youth group leaders as well as classroom teachers find the materials and workshop experience very valuable. PDP's are available to classroom teachers. Workshops are led by MassWildlife's Project WILD volunteer facilitators. Pre-registration is required. Contact Karen Silvi, Facilitator at 508/675-5759

• August 30--Celebrating Turtles Picnic, Georgetown--The Parker River Clean Water Association with support from MassWildlife's Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program is hosting a turtle themed picnic. Learn about and interact with several different native turtle species, as well as assist researchers in checking the protected nests of three of our native turtle species for emerging hatchlings. Participants will have a chance to measure, weigh, and release any hatchlings that emerge directly into the Parker River floodplain. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic supper to enjoy. Turtle cake and watermelon will be served, and a turtle craft will be set out for the children to enjoy! For further information contact Susan Speak at seaspeak@comcast.net.

• August 31--Fisheries & Wildlife Board Meeting and Hearings, Newburyport-Open to the public and media, these public meetings provide Board members with information from MassWildlife on wildlife and related topics and issues across the state. The meeting will be held at 2 PM at the Elks Lodge on Low Street. A presentation on the proposed waterfowl season will be given by Waterfowl Project Leader H Heusmann.

• August 31-Access Dedication Honoring Newbury Sportsman, Salisbury-The Gun Owner's Action League (GOAL) with MassWildlife will be hosting a Wildlife Management Access dedication in the name of Geoffrey Walker of Newbury. Walker is a well known local sportsman, conservation advocate and wildlife artist. The dedication will take place at 4:30 pm at the Salisbury Wildlife Management Area; friends and colleagues of Geoff Walker who wish to attend should contact GOAL at 508/393-5333 for more details.

• August 31--Public Hearing on Waterfowl Seasons and Bag Limits, Newburyport -- APublic Hearing will held at the Elks Lodge on Low Street in Newburyport at 7 PM relative to establishing seasons and bag limits for the 2006 - 2007 migratory bird seasons. Public comment is invited. The Board will vote on seasons and bag limits immediately following this hearing.

• Whitetail deer antlers exposed - The "velvet" covering on a male deer's (buck) antlers served to protect the antlers as they were re-growing through the summer. Now the antlers are hardened and the velvet is splitting. Bucks will rub their antlers against tree trunks and limbs to shed the velvet. Sometimes you might spot a buck with what looks like scraps of cloth hanging off the antlers--this is the velvet.

September

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• September 6--Opening day of black bear season See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones. Permit required and is found on your hunting license. On-line license buyers can go back into the MassOutdoors system to purchase the permit.

• September 9 -- Field Day for Wildlife Habitat and Biodiversity, Windsor --Private landowners are invited to attend this hands on workshop co-sponsored by the Berkshire Conservation District, Natural Resources Conservation Service and MassWildlife. Jill Liske-Clark, MassWildlife Upland Program Coordinator, Brian Hawthorne, MassWildlife Western District Forester, and Kate Parsons, NRCS Pittsfield District Conservationist will discuss the importance of early-successional habitats for wildlife, the tools of habitat management including mowing and timber harvesting, and funding sources for private landowners. The workshop will be held from 9:30 am- 12:30pm at the MassWildlife Eugene Moran Wildlife Management Area in Windsor, a property actively managed for wildlife diversity. A Davco mower will be operating on the site as part of the workshop demonstration. For more information, contact the NRCS office in Pittsfield at 413-443-1776 x3, or email kate.parsons@ma.usda.gov.

• September 7-10 -- MassWildlife at Franklin County Fair, Greenfield -- Visit the MassWildlife display area, featuring the largest snapping turtle caught in the northeast. It had been taken to the Bronx Zoo and when it died, was stuffed and mounted. You'll have a chance to talk with staff at the booth during the fair.

• September 11--Trout limit on all water bodies is reduced. See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones.

• September 11--Opening day of squirrel season in the Western Zone. See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones.

• September 12 -- Fisheries and Wildlife Board Meeting, Lenox -- Open to the public and media, these public meetings provide Board members with information from MassWildlife on wildlife and related topics and issues across the state. The meeting will be held at 1:30 PM at MassAudubon's Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary 472 West Mountain Road. Presentations about agency hatcheries and the Mass. Outdoor Exposition will be part of the meeting agenda.

• September 12 -- Black Bears and People in Massachusetts, West Springfield -- The Pioneer Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited has invited Dave Fuller, MassWildlife Biologist, to give a talk about black bears, their lives and ways to prevent conflicts. The Connecticut Valley is bear country! The public is invited to attend this presentation, complete with images of bears and anecdotes on bear/human encounters. Held at the West Springfield/Agawam Elks Lodge, 422 Morgan Rd. The program begins at 7PM.

• September 12, 19, 26, Oct 3-- Basic Freshwater Fishing Class, Turners Falls (Montague)-- Enjoy the great outdoor activity of fishing with family and friends! Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free class is co-sponsored by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and will be taking place at the Great Falls Discovery Center from 6:00- 8:00 PM. Equipment is already provided. MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free class. To pre-register, contact Great Falls Discovery Center at 413/863-3676.

• September 13 -- Eagles in Southeastern Massachusetts, South Dartmouth--Our national symbol, the American bald eagle has returned to nest in the region. Learn more about this successful restoration project from Jason Zimmer, MassWildlife Southeast District Supervisor as he talks about eagles nesting in the area. Hosted by the Paskamansett Bird Club. Details on location and time will be announced soon.

• September 15--CANOEING? KAYAKING? YOU MUST WEAR A LIFE JACKET Between September 15 of this year and May 15 of next year, ALL persons in canoes and kayaks must be WEARING lifejackets. Most boating fatalities in Massachusetts are due to accidents in small craft such as this in cold water/cold weather situations. This applies to waterfowl hunters as well.

• Hawk migration is in full swing at this time. Check out area mountain and hilltops and watch "kettles" of raptors spiraling up warm thermals on their way south.

• September 16 - 17 -- Camping for Outdoorswomen, Townsend -- Never been camping before? Cooked on a wood fire? Gone on a night hike? This is a great opporutnity for adult women who want to try!. Maybe you've been camping and been less than comfortable. In either case, learn to set up a simple, efficient and cozy camp with "Lost in the Woods" instructors Karen Nottonson and Bob Trapnell. You will spend a night, eat (and cook a few) meals. Some equipment is available by pre-arrangement. As with other Outdoorswoman workshops, no experience necessary! Limited to 20 participants. Contact Sue Fritze at 508/389-6300. Registration materials available. This workshop was cancelled!

• September 16 --Harold Parker State Forest Family Fishing Festival, Andover-- This festival is designed to introduce curious or beginning anglers of all ages who have an interest in learning about fishing. On the shores of Houghton's Pond, cast a line, learn about fish in our waters, safety, ethics, and fishing equipment. No equipment is needed, but if you have your own, bring it along! 9AM - 1:00 PM The festival is in cooperation with the Harold Parker State Forest. For more information contact the State Forest at 978/686-3391.

• September 16, Field Day for Wildlife Habitat, Amherst -- This event is sponsored by MassWildlife's Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) and will be held at Poverty Mountain Farm from 10 am - 2 pm. Participants will tour an actively managed, individually owned property, learn about habitat management methods and techniques utilized by other LIP participants and about the LIP grant application process, which opens at the end of October. Restoring and maintaining habitat is essential to the many creatures depending on available and suitable habitat. To attend this free program, contact Ken MacKenzie, MassWildlife LIP Coordinator at 508/389-6300 or email ken.mackenzie@state.ma.us.

• Sept 19, 26, Oct 3, 10-- Basic Freshwater Fishing Class, Wayland-- Enjoy the great outdoor activity of fishing with family and friends! Open to beginning anglers of all ages, this free class is co-sponsored by the Wayland Park and Recreation Department and will be taking place at the Wayland Art Center from 5:00- 7:00 PM. Equipment is already provided. MassWildlife's Angler Education Volunteer Instructors will be teaching this free class. To pre-register, contact the Wayland Park and Recreation Department at 508/358-3664.

• September 23--Last day of early fall black bear season. See the MassWildlife Fishing & Hunting Abstracts for regulations, bag limits and zones.

• September 24 --10th Annual Massachusetts Outdoor Expo for Families, Sturbridge--The entire family is invited to this free day of outdoor skills learning celebrating traditional outdoor skills, nature, art and animals! Learn to cast a rod, shoot a bow and arrow, rock climb, kayak demonstrations, outdoor safety and ethics, build a bird house, waterfowl drawing and painting, birds of prey and more. See top youth entries in the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp Contest and paint! New This Year: Get close to full body mounts of North American wildlife mounted by well known Massachusetts taxidermist Al West, see Marla Isaacs live turtles and snakes, watch Butch Johnson, US Archery Team Member and Gold Medal winner give an archery demonstration and talk with the Massachusetts Environmental Police. MassWildlife's Angler Education program and others from the agency will be present. Keep checking this area for updates on activities and surprises! Held on the grounds of the Hamilton Rod & Gun Club in Sturbridge off New Boston Road. Major sponsors of this event are: FAWN Society, Weatherby Foundation, Hamilton Rod & Gun Club and MassWildlife. For more information go to www.fawns.org

• Fall Trout Stocking usually begins this week and runs through the first week of