Press Release  DCR Opens Applications for 2026 Controlled Deer Hunting at Blue Hills Reservation

MILTON  — The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), in coordination with the Department of Fish & Game’s (DFG) Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), today announced that applications are now open for the 2026 archery-only Blue Hills Controlled Deer Hunt. Regulated hunting helps manage deer populations and protect the reservation’s forests, native vegetation, and other natural resources.  

“Our administration is committed to giving wildlife experts the tools they need to responsibly manage deer populations and protect our natural resources,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By modernizing our hunting laws and supporting programs like the Blue Hills Controlled Deer Hunt, we're keeping our forests healthy, protecting wildlife habitats and preserve reservations like Blue hills for future generations.” 

“Responsible wildlife management is essential to protecting the places that make Massachusetts special,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “The Blue Hills Controlled Deer Hunt is one of the many ways we're keeping this reservation healthy, protecting its forests and ensuring it remains a vibrant resource for everyone who visits.” 

Since 2015, DCR has safely conducted controlled hunts in the Blue Hills Reservation as part of its ongoing deer management program. The 2026 hunt will take place Mondays through Thursdays from November 2 through November 25, 2026, in designated areas covering approximately 4,000 acres of the reservation’s more than 7,000 acres. There will be no hunting on Thanksgiving Day. 

"Managing the deer population in Massachusetts is critical to preserving natural habitats and biodiversity in our forests and parks," said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. "DCR has successfully conducted specialized hunts at the Blue Hills Reservation for more than a decade, that help maintain the health of this incredible property and protecting it for years to come."   

Licensed hunters interested in participating must submit an application through the Blue Hills Deer Management Program webpage. DCR will issue up to 250 permits, and selected hunters will be required to attend a mandatory orientation covering program rules and safety requirements. As in 2025, hunters may use Zone(s) 10/11 Antlerless Deer Permits, and Blue Hills-specific Antlerless Permits are no longer required.  

The Blue Hills Management Program is required by state law where deer overpopulation is negatively affects forests, water resources, or plant growth on agency-owned land. Managing deer overpopulation helps promote forest regeneration, protect rare plants, support wildlife habitat, and reduce wildfire risk. The Blue Hills Deer Management Program utilizes controlled permitted hunting as part of DCR’s efforts to manage the high deer densities within the state reservation. Managing the deer herd promotes diminished risk of wildfires, sustainability of species diversity, and tree and plant regeneration, including rare plants.   

Licensed hunters play a critical role in managing deer populations. Hunting is one of the most widely used management methods throughout the country and is the primary management tool, supported by MassWildlife, to successfully address situations involving deer overabundance and vegetation over-grazing in Massachusetts. In addition to the agency’s controlled deer hunts, DCR manages thousands of acres of forest and parkland across the state where licensed hunters are allowed to hunt during the regulated seasons. For more information on hunting in Massachusetts and safety tips for hunters and non-hunters, visit the MassWildlife website.  

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