August 18, 2006

DEP Announces Bennett’s Pond State Park Will Open to Archery Deer Hunting September 15

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced today that Bennett’s Pond State Park, a 460-acre property located in Ridgefield, will be open to archery deer hunting this fall. Bennett’s Pond was acquired in 2003 and is managed by the DEP Parks Division.

Edward Parker, DEP Bureau Chief for Outdoor Recreation, said, "Archery hunting is a safe activity that is compatible with other outdoor recreational activities on many public lands. A DEP Hunting Review Team recommended archery deer hunting at Bennett’s Pond and we are moving forward to implement that recommendation."

The Park will be open to archery deer hunting throughout the statewide season from September 15 to December 30. Hunting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Hunting is prohibited on Sundays. Hunters must posses a valid Connecticut archery deer permit, which requires successful completion of an approved bowhunting education course. All statewide regulations apply.

"The Town of Ridgefield has been proactive at educating town residents about deer and deer management, evaluating deer management options, and developing and implementing a local deer management plan," said Dale May, Director of DEP’s Wildlife Division. The locally abundant deer population has overbrowsed much of the understory vegetation at Bennett’s Pond. Permitting archery deer hunting on this land will contribute to local deer management efforts and will assist in our stewardship of the property. It will also contribute to reducing deer population growth in Ridgefield."

Over the past 10 years, Ridgefield has consistently ranked as the town with the highest number of reported deer-vehicle accidents. It is also one of several towns in Fairfield County that have appointed a local deer committee to assess the extent of the deer problem, review available options, and provide management recommendations.