North Andover's Conservation Department is advising trail users to wear blaze orange and leash pets as deer hunting season is underway on certain town open space trails.
The department posted a safety notice on Nov. 2 noting that informational signs have gone up at certain Town Open Space kiosks. The notice, written by Sarah Brush, asked residents not to tamper with or remove the signs, which are meant to alert visitors.
Archery season opened Oct. 5 and runs through Nov. 28. Shotgun season follows from Nov. 30 through Dec. 12. A primitive firearms season runs Dec. 14 through Dec. 31. A winter season covering Zones 9, 10 and 11 then extends from Jan. 1 through Jan. 30, 2027.
The Town Common reported in October that the same dates apply around Georgetown, Haverhill and Newburyport as well.
What the department is asking
The notice strongly advises anyone walking trails where hunting is permitted to wear bright blaze orange. That includes vests, hats and bandanas. The department also recommends putting blaze orange gear on pets.
Pets must remain on a leash on Town Open Space trails at all times, year-round, according to the notice.
Residents with questions can contact the Conservation Department at (978) 688-9530.
