For more information on turkey hunting in Vermont, call the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department at (802) 241-3700, or visit their Web site at www.vtfishandwildlife.com.

For travel information, call 1-800-837-6668.

RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island's turkey population and spring harvests have increased steadily over the past decade. To help continue that trend, hunters should plan to visit these two state wildlife management areas:

Big River
Wildlife Management Area
Rhode Island hunters are usually limited to small parcels for hunting. But with nearly 8,300 acres, Big River WMA, in East and West Greenwich, gives turkey hunters room to spread out. This WMA is generally level with Big River as its centerpiece. Also, Carr River, Congdon Brook and Nooseneck River meander through the forest.

The WMA is mainly wooded with a mixture of oak, maple and conifer trees. Access to the WMA is plentiful, since several dirt fire roads and a few paved roads cut through the property. When hunting the WMA, be aware that I-95 also slices through the northern portion of the forest.

To reach the Big River WMA's access points, take Exit 6 off I-95 and travel south on Route 3. Parking is available along Route 3 at several entry gates. Or take Exit 6A and head south on Hopkins Hill Road, which bisects the forest and has access gateways.

Nicholas Farm
Wildlife Management Area
Many Ocean State hunters believe this WMA offers the best turkey hunting in the state. The birds seem to thrive in this mixed habitat, about 1,500 acres of mixed farm fields, mature forest and small shrub lots.

The Moosup River also flows through the northern end of the WMA, acting as a natural barrier to keep the turkeys within the forest.

Adding to the appeal of Nicholas Farm is its close proximity to Connecticut's 22,000-acre Pachaug State Forest. Nutmeg State hunters often push the turkeys from the larger forest into Rhode Island. Savvy hunters will set up blinds along the state border or near the Moosup River.