Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Umpachene River WCE

New Marlborough South Sandisfield Road, New Marlborough, MA

About Umpachene River WCE

The Umpachene River Wildlife Conservation Easement, known colloquially as Hoppins Lot, provides hunting access on a 255-acre wooded property. The landscape is mostly a regenerated hardwood forest with tall shrubs and ferns that line the forest floor. Trees consist of white pines, hemlocks, oaks, and other northern hardwoods. Some wildlife most frequently seen in the forest are deer, turkeys, bears, beavers, and bobcats, all common in the Berkshires. The lower-elevation sections of the property are primarily wetlands and marshland, as multiple small streams run through the property before feeding into the Umpachene River, which is found on the northeast side of the property. Along the river, there are multiple beaver ponds where it is common to see waterfowl, while ruffed grouse and woodcocks thrive in the dense growth surrounding the pond.

Hoppins Lot straddles New Marlborough Sandisfield Road, with both sections of the property having similar size and topography. To the northeast, the property borders Steepletop Preserve, a large and popular public nature preserve with multiple hiking trails and ample hunting space. To the southwest, the property is dominated by wetlands with numerous small pools of water, which harbor plenty of wildlife. Those interested in studying nature can observe the fascinating characteristics of a young forest in the regeneration process, as this property has been used for timber harvesting in the past.

Hoppins Lot is best suited for hunters and adventurous visitors looking to independently explore a remote area of Western Massachusetts. The property contains no trails or amenities, so visitors should be prepared to navigate the rough terrain independently. Parking is limited to the side of Route 183.