At this time, MDAR is only permitting white-tailed deer hunting at our Lakeville and Middleborough properties for the 2025 season. The Department permits these activities to address significant crop damage experienced by agricultural tenants.
MDAR Controlled Hunt Guidelines
During the 2025 Hunting Season, MDAR is offering a controlled hunt for white-tailed deer at ONLY the Middleborough and Lakeville state-owned agricultural properties in an effort to reduce pest pressure for our tenants and local farming community. Hunting is permitted when adhering to the following procedures:
- Hunters must hold a valid hunter’s license, all necessary permits, and adhere to all state and local hunting regulations. Hunting licenses will need to be shown to MDAR before permission is issued.
- Hunters must receive written permission from the designated MDAR land licensing coordinator for the identified property. For the Middleborough and Lakeville properties, please contact Ryan Burke at 617-960-6606 or ryan.p.burke@mass.gov.
- Any additional stipulations communicated by the agency during this process must be adhered to.
- Hunters will not interfere with farmers/farming operations occurring at the property. Hunters will keep a safe distance from tenant farmers on the property when pursuing game. Hunters must be respectful and considerate of farmer tenants while on the property. Vehicles cannot block access to the property or impede farm operations.
- No permanent tree stands allowed on the property. All temporary stands must be removed before the end of the season. Equipment left on the property must be labeled with the first and last name of the permitted hunter. Any shells, game, or other materials must be removed from the site each day.
- Any violations to Massachusetts or local hunting regulations or any of the aforementioned controlled hunt guidelines will result in the revocation of permission to hunt at MDAR properties.
Do not hesitate to reach out to the Department for information.