A 2,038-acre working timber forest between the Quabbin Reservoir and North Amherst, spanning Shutesbury, Pelham, and Leverett, owned by W.D. Cowls and protected by a state conservation restriction finalized in late 2025 that guarantees public hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife-watching access.
What to expect
Accessibility
Working forest roads and trails, uneven surface; not wheelchair accessible.
Fishing
Allowed per MA fishing regulations
Managed by
W.D. Cowls, Inc.; Conservation Restriction held by the Commonwealth, MassWildlife/Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, in partnership with Kestrel Land Trust and the federal Forest Legacy Program
WebsiteCommon questions
Is this the same as the Paul C. Jones Working Forest?
No. It is a separate 2,038-acre W.D. Cowls conservation restriction covering different parcels between the Quabbin Reservoir and North Amherst, distinct from the 3,486-acre Paul C. Jones Working Forest around Brushy Mountain.
Is there an entry fee at Walter Cowls Jones Working Forest?
No, entry is free.
Is Walter Cowls Jones Working Forest wheelchair accessible?
Working forest roads and trails, uneven surface; not wheelchair accessible.
What rules should I know at Walter Cowls Jones Working Forest?
Active working forest; expect logging operations and log trucks on access roads.