After speaking with stakeholders, we have come to the understanding that hunters are necessary to both forestry and water quality at Trescott. Unfortunately, tension between hunters and other users is common, including situations in which hikers have been uncomfortable with the hunting on the Trescott property.

Hunters understand that hunting is a sensitive issue. They have remained respectful and cautious around families. In order for other recreational users to continue to access Trescott, hunting must exist. UVTA can help hikers feel more comfortable sharing the lands by helping reduce tensions between the two groups. One way to do this is through educating hikers about hunting.

  • Hunting keep the deer population in check. Overpopulation of deer is a serious problem for many reasons. Deer eat young pines. This not only threatens the profitability of the forestry operation, but these pine forests serve as the filtration for the watershed. When young pines are removed, invasive glossy buckthorn grows. This buckthorn crowds out other growth. Furthermore, buckthorn grows very densely, making it hard for animals like rabbits to move across the land.
  • Safety is always an issue, but people do not need to be concerned. Hunters tend to stay away from other humans and hunt at dusk and dawn. Hunters are allowed to shoot antlerless and antlered deer during specific seasons. Each variety requires a specific license. As a result, hunters are very mindful about what they are shooting.
  • Keeping dogs on leashes is also important for hunting. There was an event in which an unleashed dog ran after an injured deer. The hunter was unable to kill the deer, leading it to suffer inhumanely. Keeping dogs on leashes allows hunting to proceed appropriately.
  • Deer can create problems for locals. They carry ticks and can browse on local gardens.

Currently the Hanover Conservancy shares messages about hunting during the fall through newsletters and posts at the property. UVTA can help educate its users by sending out newsletters and posting on social media.