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MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife resources
Helpful resources from the MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife for Farmers
Opening Your Property to Hunting
MassWildlife is available to offer guidance on how to minimize agricultural damage from wildlife. Opening your property to hunters during the legal hunting season is one of the most effective long-term solutions for reducing damage from deer, bear, turkey, and other wildlife. To get connected with licensed hunters in your area, contact your nearest MassWildlife District Office or your local sportsmen’s club.
Farmer/Landowner Hunting Permit
Farmers who earn at least 50% of their annual income from agricultural practices may qualify to hunt on their own property during the legal seasons without a hunting license. To hunt deer, turkey, or bear on your property without a hunting license, you must apply for and be issued a free Farmer/Landowner hunting permit. Learn more about the Farmer/Landowner permit, who is eligible, and how to apply.
MassWildlife’s Hunters Share the Harvest
MassWildlife’s Hunters Share the Harvest Program provides an outlet for hunters to donate venison to Massachusetts residents facing food insecurity. This program can help address agricultural damage on farms open to hunting because successful hunters with remaining permits can continue to harvest deer throughout the season and donate venison to help combat hunger. Visit Mass.gov/ShareTheHarvest to learn more about the program and to get a printable flier that can be shared with hunters.
Other helpful links