Hi Dianne, 

I'm sorry you are having this frustrating issue with critters in your yard! Here is some further information about confirming the critters in question are wood rats, and strategies for managing them - 

Woodrat Damage Management – Wildlife Damage Management (extension.org)

Woodrats – Wildlife Damage Management (extension.org)

It looks like the practical solutions such as exclusion and cultural practices will bring the most benefit in your case. Below is a general guide to rodent management specific to Vermont as well that might help: 

Rats (and other rodents) – UVM Extension Ag Engineering

There are specific trapping regulations in Vermont for controlling wildlife, and so I can also point you to the below resources specific to wildlife management and nuisance wildlife: 

<personal data hidden> or<personal data hidden> - VT Rabies Hotline. They answer nuisance wildlife questions as well as their other functions.

List of Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators - https://vtfishandwildlife.com/learn-more/living-with-wildlife/human-wildlife-conflicts-resources

Thanks, 

Kristin