Towns: Becket, Otis
Acreage: 1,926
Wildlife Management Zone: 3, 4S
Description
The Farmington River WMA consists of mature mixed northern hardwoods including oak, maple, birch, cherry, and ash. Eastern hemlock and white pine stands are scattered throughout the area. Shrub swamps and wetlands are also common. The West Branch of the Farmington River runs through the eastern portion of the property. Mud Pond is part of a diverse bog complex known as an acidic shrub fen.
Location, access, & parking
There are no maintained parking areas. There are old log landings and pull-offs on Ed Jones Road, the west side of Route 8, Merritt Road, Becket Road, Johnson Road and at the end Tannery Road that can be used for parking. See WMA map.
Note: WMAs are intentionally wild, visitors will find natural landscapes rather than maintained trails.
Habitat management
In 2017 habitat management was completed on Becket/Johnson Road to create about 50 acres of young forest. In 2022 work was completed on 90 adjacent acres.
Learn more about MassWildlife’s habitat management activities.
Hunting & fishing opportunities
White-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, snowshoe hare, black bear, river otter, fisher, American beaver, and waterfowl are abundant at this WMA. The numerous wetland areas provide excellent aquatic furbearer habitat. Recent habitat management cuts have created a diverse mix of cover and food sources for numerous game species. The Farmington River flows through the western portion of the area and a few small streams originate on the property. MassWildlife stocks the Farmington River with trout. Go to mass.gov/trout for more information.
Wildlife viewing & other features
Occasionally, moose inhabit the area. This property provides access to the West Branch of the Farmington River and also protects a diverse bog complex.
Regulations
About Wildlife Management Areas
MassWildlife owns and manages over 220,000 acres of land to conserve fish and wildlife habitats and provide access for outdoor recreation. All WMAs are open to hunting, fishing, trapping, and other outdoor recreation activities. Visit the MassWildlife Lands Viewer for an interactive map of MassWildlife properties.
You can support land protection in Massachusetts. Contributions to the Wildlands Fund help pay for the cost of acquiring wildlife habitat. Learn more about the Wildlands Fund.