WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) are owned by the state of New Jersey and are overseen by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Division of Fish and Wildlife Bureau of Land Management. WMA lands are managed to preserve a diversity of fish and wildlife habitats throughout the state of New Jersey. Over 320,000 acres are protected in WMAs throughout the state.
Most WMAs in New Jersey are left relatively “wild” for the benefit of plants, animals and fish. Trails are often unmarked, so a compass or GPS unit is recommended if you plan to explore. There are very few, if any, interpretive or informational signs. Camping, swimming and picnicking are not allowed. Parking areas are often grassy or dirt, so they may be inaccessible in inclement weather. Some WMAs have boat launches, and we have noted that when appropriate.
Hunting, trapping and fishing are allowed in all WMAs during legal seasons, licenses are always required. It is imperative that all visitors to New Jersey’s WMAs familiarize themselves with the hunting, trapping and fishing seasons and all WMA regulations by visiting www.nj.gov/dep/fgw, If visiting a WMA during hunting season, wear bright colors such as bright yellow or flame orange – or visit on Sundays when hunting is suspended.
Enjoy these often pristine native habitats. Just remember; if it’s a WMA, it’s WILD.
Common Sense Tips for the New Jersey Skylands Region
Anyone visiting the Skylands Birding and Wildlife Trails (SBWT) should be well aware of the following:
· You are in bear country. Just about any site on the SBWT holds the potential for seeing black bear. Give bears a wide berth, especially adults with cubs, as they may be fiercely protective. For everything you need to know about New Jersey bears visit www.nj.gov/dep/fgw/bearinfo.htm.
· You are in tick country. From earliest spring to latest fall, ticks are found throughout New Jersey. Use repellent, wear a hat, stay on trails or roads and wear light color clothing so ticks are easy to spot. Check for ticks regularly throughout the day.
· There are poisonous northern copperhead snakes throughout the Skylands region and timber rattlesnakes are found in Sussex and Warren counties. Keep your distance if you spot one. Be especially alert on trails and near rocky outcroppings.
A visitor to the Skylands, on average, is not likely to see a bear or a snake. Just be prepared and if you do encounter either of these fascinating species, use common sense and observe from a distance. We wish we could say the same about the ticks. But don’t let these warnings stop you from visiting this beautiful area.