Town: West Stockbridge
Acreage: 688
Wildlife Management Zone: 3
Description
Much of Maple Hill WMA is steep sloping hillside with elevation ranging from 825 to 1,600 feet, but there are some sections of level wetland. The upland portions of this WMA support a superb example of rich mesic woodland habitat dominated by hardwoods such as sugar maple, white ash, basswood, red oak, and yellow birch. The wetlands are primarily open shallow marsh and shrub swamp.
Location, access, & parking
Parking access is located on Maple Hill Road near the intersection of Route 102. There is additional parking access along Maple Hill Road. See WMA map.
Note: WMAs are intentionally wild, visitors will find natural landscapes rather than maintained trails.
Habitat management
This property was treated for invasive plant species in 2016. Further treatments will be conducted in the future as time permits.
Learn more about MassWildlife's habitat management activities.
Hunting opportunities
This area provides excellent black bear and white-tailed deer habitat and food sources. Wild turkey can also be found throughout the property. The wetland areas provide good habitat for beaver, river otter, mink, muskrat, as well as waterfowl.
Fishing opportunities
The Williams River which borders part of the parcel’s eastern boundary is stocked with trout and also supports a wild trout population. For more information on trout stocking, visit mass.gov/trout.
Wildlife viewing & other features
The rich mesic woods provide excellent habitat for a variety of non-game species and bird species as well as several rare plant species.
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.