The state Constitution makes all land (including private) in Vermont open to public use for hunting/fishing/foraging. Unless legally posted - which is difficult to maintain as it requires registering with the town and reposting annually - then the land is open for use.

Same as everywhere else, lot of people moved in from places where "private" property means everyone stays out. And don't understand the state's requirements for posting.

Their ignorance, combined with Vermonter attitudes of "I've always done it this way", leads to confrontations. Add in that dog hunting is considered inhumane by many, and has fallen out of favor in other states, it's bound to happen.

Personally, I think dog hunting for large game needs to be done away with. But I see why people cling to it.