Massachusetts Expands Protected ‘Moose Country’ in Berkshires

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has acquired 384 acres of land in the Town of Sandisfield, between Sandisfield State Forest and Tolland State Forest. That's Massachusetts moose country.

DCR says the property "will be incorporated into DCR's existing protected forestland - expanding a connected landscape that supports both ecological health and public access."

"By conserving this land, we are strengthening biodiversity and climate resilience, safeguarding clean water resources, and ensuring this land remains a place where people can connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors for generations to come," said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle.

How the Berkshire Wildlife Linkage Protects Animals

DCR says the acquisition is "the latest addition to the Berkshire Wildlife Linkage, a region designated by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) that covers much of Western Massachusetts and is home to the most intact forest ecosystem in Southern New England."

The linkage serves as a "regional habitat and travel route for species such as black bears, moose, and bobcats."

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Most folks have heard about the expansion of black bears in Massachusetts, but were probably unaware of the moose population here.

When you think of moose, you probably think of Maine. After all, the moose is the official state animal of the Pine Tree State. But moose are found in New Hampshire and Vermont, too, and there are even moose here in Massachusetts.

How Many Moose Live in Massachusetts?

Between 800 and 1,000 moose call Massachusetts home, mainly in the central and western regions, though the numbers are thinning due in part to parasitic brain worms and heavy tick infestations, according to MassWildlife.

Moose populations throughout New England are disappearing at an alarming rate.