Hunting lottery open for Bluffside Farm in Newport

NEWPORT — The lottery for the 2021 archery hunting season at Bluffside Farm is open, and applications are due by September 24.

As in years past, the Vermont Land Trust will host archery deer hunting at Bluffside, by permission only.

All hunting will be archery-only because of the Newport City ordinance banning firearms.

This year, archery deer hunting will be allowed during three periods:

October 16 to November 12
November 13 to November 28
November 29 to December 15

These will be the only dates during which hunting will be permitted, and all rules will apply.

Bluffside Farm has become a popular area for walking and will continue to be open to pedestrians during hunting season.

VLT requires that all hunters carry written permission and hunt only in the designated portions of the property, away from neighboring houses.

Visitors should be mindful that hunters may be present during the designated periods and wear proper safety attire, and VLT says they will also post reminders at the property.

Bluffside Farm is located at 171 Scott Farm Road.

The Vermont Land Trust purchased the farm in 2015 and opened it to the public.

In addition to hunting, the land is available for walking, skiing, outdoor education, and community gardening.

A new recreation path on Bluffside Farm is now open, adding to the existing trails the community has enjoyed for years.

An official opening is being planned for this fall.

More information and the lottery application are available at vlt.org/hunt or call (802) 745-6303 with questions.

The deadline for applications is September 24.