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Using State Wildlife Grants funding, the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife purchased a significant area of wetlands and bogs from the Northland Cranberry Company in 2002. This tract on the border of Hanson and Halifax, now known as the Burrage Pond Wildlife Management Area, is 1,625 acres of open water, marsh, Atlantic white cedar and red maple swamps, and former cranberry bogs. This acquisition will protect valuable wetland wildlife habitat, greatly improve access to the WMA, and include the continued active production of cranberries on managed bogs. Furthermore, with increased support and wise management, Burrage Pond can become the east coast’s largest inland wetland flyway and stopover area for migrating birds!
Burrage Pond provides wildlife with a place to live and recreational users with a great opportunity to reconnect with their natural environment. The wetlands area supports a variety of game and nongame wildlife and is particularly noted for its waterfowl. Hunting opportunities include waterfowl in the marsh and bog areas and deer hunting in the forested areas. Burrage Pond also supports over 81 species or bird, and birdwatching opportunities abound. Upper and Lower Burrage Ponds contain bluegill, yellow perch, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed sunfish, chain pickerel, golden shiner, black crappie, brown bullhead, and white perch. The ponds provide excellent warmwater shoreline fishing. The Bay Circuit Trail passes through these wetlands, and creation of the Wildlife Management Area will ensure that recreational opportunities remain accessible.
Teaming With Wildlife and other constituents will work together to protect, enhance, and restore the varied natural habitats of this invaluable resource. Restoration projects will ensure that polluted areas are cleaned. Management plans are being developed to maintain the area’s natural biodiversity and keep out invasive species. If this work is done correctly, Burrage Pond will become a natural gem that all stakeholders – biologists, sportsmen, birdwatchers, hikers, and wildlife – can enjoy for generations to come.
Links
Marion Larson. "'Eco' Tourism Gets a Boost with a New Wildlife Area." Plymouth County Business Review. April 1, 2003.
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