New England Forest Land Leases

How Recreational Leases Make Conservation Sense


Hull Forestlands encourages the use of cabins on its lease properties as these structures provide warming and gathering places for leasees.

We promote recreational leasing in our southern New England forests as another way to help offset the cost of conserving large tracts of forestland, and since the early 1980s Hull Forestlands has leased properties to groups and individuals seeking unique recreational opportunities.

Our managed forestland in Massachusetts and Connecticut—complete with access roads and miles of trails— is an available and attractive resource for hunters, fishermen, hikers, horseback riders, and other outdoor enthusiasts seeking an exclusive recreational lease.  To make our properties more accessible and attractive to leasees, Hull Forestlands L.P. encourages the building of cabins on many company properties. 

About Our Leased Parcels and Leases

Our forests consist of mixed tree species and are managed under state regulatory guidelines to produce sustainable light harvests every 10-20 years while always leaving the property aesthetically pleasing with an abundance of large trees as well as seedlings and saplings.

We normally lease our forestlands to organized clubs or small groups of outdoorsmen and women who band together and form a club.  So far club interests have ranged from hunting and fishing to dog training and hiking. Written leases are generally for a period of five to fifteen years, with an option to renew.  Liability insurance is required by each club to cover their activities.  Most properties consist of forestland that is posted and gated to protect privacy. Most have a good all-weather gravel road that provides easy access from public roads.  Some have small cabins that provide an attractive place to meet, eat, warm up by the woodstove, and even camp overnight. 

Factoring Lease Costs

The lease cost of a property is based on a number of factors: our costs, the property's location, and its suitability for leasing. Factors considered in our suitability analysis include:

  • forest stand sizes
  •  presence of mast production to draw wildlife
  •  land quality
  •  acres of permanent openings
  •  water sources
  •  accessibility
  •  game diversity
  •  forest thinning values
  •  negative and positive tract impacts. 

 

After these factors are scored, a property's lease cost is determined at a rate of between $5-$50/acre per year. 

Recreational Leases Photo Gallery


For more information on recreational leasing, email us or call (860) 974-0127

 "This is the 20th year our club has leased land from Hull's, and having a long-term lease on the property has enabled us to develop a relationship with the land.  We've been coming here for years and we consider it our place.

—Ed Ertel, President, Boney Acres Hunting Club, Connecticut


Properties Available for Lease

Call 1-800-353-3331 or email us for more information on recreationa leases.