Towns: Holyoke, Westfield, West Springfield
Acreage: 455
Wildlife Management Zone: 4S
Description
East Mountain WMA consists of 8 parcels that follow the length of East Mountain. Upland transitional hardwood forests of oak, sugar maple, and birch are the major cover type on this steeply-sloped property.
Location, access, & parking
No official parking lots exist. However, access can be made from Cherry Street Extension (West Cherry Street) which runs through the parcel and is gated at both ends. Another access is from Easthampton Road (Route 141) where the old road becomes a major pullout. This is about 250 feet from Southampton Road for the northerly opening and about 1,100 feet for the southerly opening. See WMA map.
Note: WMAs are intentionally wild, visitors will find natural landscapes rather than maintained trails.
Hunting opportunities
Hunting opportunities abound for mature forest species such as white-tailed deer, black bear, eastern coyote, and gray squirrel.
Wildlife viewing & other features
This WMA provides quality habitat for numerous species of conservation concern. The hard basalt bedrock of East Mountain provides a mineral-rich soil for many uncommon plants. Numerous vernal pools are perched on the ridge as well. The New England National Scenic Trail also known as the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail runs through portions of the property.
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.