Vermont Fish & Wildlife proposes rule to regulate outdoor recreation

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Fish and wildlife officials are considering charging you to visit their land.

Under this new rule, you’d need a license for recreation beyond hunting and fishing, for things like birdwatching, kayaking, or hiking.

Fish and wildlife officials say it’s an attempt to monetize from the many people enjoying their properties.

Middlebury resident Lorraine Morse focuses her camera lens on a flock of snow geese at Panton’s Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area.

“I’m kind of a regular,” said Morse.

Her frequent visits could come with a fee. Vermont Fish and Wildlife, which owns the management area, is considering charging people to visit.

“I would probably pay it if it seemed reasonable because I do come out here a lot and I do enjoy it,” said Morse.

You’d need a licens