ADDISON COUNTY — The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is offering a series of free educational walks at its wildlife management areas (WMAs) from August through October. The walks will be led by biologists with decades of experience conserving Vermont’s fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats.
The first walk in Addison County will be at Snake Mountain WMA on Thursday, Sept. 17, (Rain date: Sept. 24), from 2 to 5 p.m., beginning at the parking area at 2514 Mountain Road in Addison.
Participant will walk to the summit of Snake Mountain with ecologist Eric Sorenson and State Geologist Jon Kim to learn about the geologic features and how they influence the unique natural communities and habitats on the mountain. This walk is recommended for adults and kids age eight and older — children must be accompanied by an adult.
A walk on the history and current management of Dead Creek WMA will beheld on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to noon at Dead Creek WMA in Addison.
Join biologist and WMA Manager Amy Alfieri for a walking and driving tour of Dead Creek, where discussion will include how and why the area was developed and its current management strategies and goals. Be sure to bring binoculars to spot the migrating waterfowl that visit the WMA.
“We hope these events will raise awareness and support for our land conservation efforts, while providing a unique opportunity for Vermonters to get to know our fish and wildlife biologists and the fish, wildlife and habitats we protect and manage,” said Land & Habitat Program Manager John Austin. “WMAs are special places enjoyed by many Vermonters for hunting, fishing, bird watching, hiking and more.”
To protect the health and safety of all participants, physical distancing requirements will be in place. All participants must wear face coverings at all times, and temperatures may be taken prior to starting. Masks will not be provided, and participants are asked to bring their own.  Participants are encouraged to bring snacks and water, and to dress in footwear and appropriate clothing for each event.
Pre-registration for up to 15 participants is required on Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s website, vtfishandwildlife.com, with a link on the front page.