Board begins cleanup of wildlife-feeding ordinance to curb dangerous habituation

Selectmen discussed proposed clarifying edits to Town Code §7-24 to make prohibitions on feeding wildlife in parks and town properties more enforceable and to reduce hazard from habituated animals.

Beth, speaking for the parks staff, described incidents in which wildlife became accustomed to people due to intentional feeding and cited safety risks including a reported case involving a snapping turtle and a toddler. The proposed amendments would clarify that intentional feeding of wild animals on park property is prohibited and would create enforceable signage and penalties to deter the behavior.

Board members and staff said they expect minimal pushback and will return the language for a subsequent read. The board agreed the change is sensible and will aim to provide clear signage and enforcement resources through park rangers and Parks & Rec outreach.