The Vernon Dam provides open water for winter ducks in even the most frigid winters. A short easy walk from the pull-out on Governor Hunt Road offers a view point of open water above the dam, while a canoe launch area below the dam offers parking as well. Species seen here include Common and Barrow's Goldeneyes, Common and Hooded Mergansers, Canada Geese, Greater-White Fronted Geese, Mallards, Black Ducks, Ringed-neck Ducks, Green-winged Teal, Belted Kingfisher and Great Blue Heron. Spring migration often brings fallout of migrating songbirds as well.
Best Time of Year: Winter offers a good time to look for both Common Goldeneyes and the rare Barrow's Goldeneye. March-April brings good numbers of migrating ducks, while May offers migrating songbirds.
To Get There: From the center of Brattleboro, head South on VT 142. Follow VT 142 for 5.5 miles, turn left on Governor Hunt Road and look for the pull out above the dam on the left in 0.7 miles.
Bufflehead by Chris Petrak
Ringed-necked Ducks by Chris Petrak
