State seeks to buy 33-acre 'Maple Crossing' to link wildlife areas

Will Duane, Land Acquisition Coordinator with the Department of Fish and Wildlife, presented a proposal for the state to acquire a 33-acre parcel in Weston called Maple Crossing from the Mount Holly Conservation Trust. The parcel would act as a habitat connector between Okemo State Forest and the Awasos Wildlife Management Area and help protect black bear habitat and other large wildlife.

Selectboard members expressed support for the concept and asked when a decision would be needed; Duane said a decision would be required by the end of the year. The board agreed to discuss the proposal further at its next meeting and copies of the department’s letter and map will be made available online and at the Town Office.