Watershed Permits

The DCR watershed system supplies drinking water to the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority to treat and distribute to 2.5 million people. To protect the quality of our water, as well as the watersheds' other natural and cultural resources, you'll need a permit for a variety of activities, such as fishing, hunting and boating, as well as large group gatherings.

Quabbin Reservoir Watershed

For more information or to submit Quabbin reservoir permit applications, contact:

   Department of Conservation and Recreation
   Division of Water Supply Protection
   Quabbin Section
   485 Ware Road
   Belchertown, MA 01007
   (413) 323-7221

Additional Resources for Quabbin Reservoir Watershed

Quabbin Reservation Deer Hunt

Quabbin Reservoir Fishing Guide

Ware River Watershed

Ware River Watershed Group Access permit application
Ware River Watershed Assembly permit application (weddings)
2019 Long Pond Boat Permit Application
Ware River Watershed Research Permit: Instructions Permit Application

For more information or to submit Ware River Watershed permit applications, contact:

   Department of Conservation and Recreation
   Division of Water Supply Protection
   Quabbin Section
   485 Ware Road
   Belchertown, MA 01007
   (413) 323-7221

Wachusett and Sudbury Reservoir Watersheds

For more information or to submit Wachusett and Sudbury permit applications, contact:

   Department of Conservation and Recreation
   Division of Water Supply Protection
   Wachusett/Sudbury Section
   180 Beaman St.
   West Boylston, MA 01583
   (508) 792-7806

Fishing and Hunting Permits

Licenses from the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife are required for fishing and hunting on DCR/DWM land.

Additional Resources for Fishing and Hunting Permits

MassFishHunt: Buy Fishing or Hunting Licenses

DCR Watershed Hunting

DCR Watershed Fishing

Fishing in State Parks