Past Events

  • Sep27

    -

    Massachusetts State Dinner at Rally

    Trinity Brewhouse 186 Fountain Street, Providence, RI

    Dinner tickets have sold out. 

    NOTE: If you're joining us for a drink but not dinner, you do not need to register or purchase a ticket. Just come by!

    Whether or not you're attending the Land Trust Alliance Rally in Providence, anyone with Massachusetts land conservation connections is invited to join our traditional Massachusetts State Dinner at Rally. We'll have a private room with a cash bar and buffet dinner. Our venue is right by the conference center, so even if you can't join us for dinner, stop by for a drink and say hello! 

     

  • Sep20

    -

    September 2024 Conservation Partner Meeting

    Hybrid In-person at MassWildlife Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough MA OR via Zoom. Register below.

    Land trust staff and board members as well as conservation partners are welcome to this quarterly meeting, featuring relevant news from state agencies, a timely update on state and federal policy matters, announcements, and this month’s featured topic: Article 97 and implementation of the Public Lands Protection Act. Formerly known as "Steering Committee Meetings", these meetings are convened by MLTC's Partner...

  • Sep12

    -

    Fall 2024 Land Protection Tools & Techniques Course

    Online The Application deadline was May 15 and this course is full.

    Sponsored by UMass Extension, MLTC and Mass Audubon, with support from The Trustees and MA DCR’s Working Forest Initiative, this course is aimed at those with a strong interest in learning the practical nuts and bolts of land conservation transactions in order to seek employment in this field. 

  • Sep12

    -

    Networking for Executive Directors of Large Regional Land Trusts

    via Zoom

    The suggested focus for this session is Risk Assessment, but conversation in these calls is driven by current issues and concerns of those participating so other topics can also be raised. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series for land trust staff and Board members. This call will not be recorded. Contact Robb Johnson (robb@massland.org) for more information.

  • Sep11

    -

    Development Staff Quarterly Networking Zoom

    via Zoom

    The focus of this quarter's call will be best practices for year-end giving and fundraising. As discussions often branch out to related topics, bring questions for your development colleagues, and feel free to share your successful programs. This call will not be recorded. 

  • Aug23

    -

    ECCN Social Coffee and Hike in Amherst

    Kestrel Land Trust 37 Bay Rd, Amherst MA

    Enjoy some casual conversation with other professionals in the land conservation community while sipping a morning beverage and taking in the view at Kestrel Land Trust's beautiful headquarters in South Amherst. Then, weather permitting, take a short hike together around the Plum Brook Pond and Sweet Alice Conservation Area. 

    All land conservation professionals are welcome, whether new to the profession or not. 

  • Aug20

    -

    Quarterly Zoom for All-Volunteer Land Trusts (AVLTs)

    via Zoom

    Two entwined topics for discussion at this quarter's call include organizational transition and sustainability, and recruiting and accommodating new Board members from the younger generations. This call is a forum for AVLTs to learn from each other and tackle their unique challenges. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program. This call will not be recorded.

  • Jul24

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    Early Conservation Career Network Cold Brook Preserve Tour

    Robert F. Smith Cold Brook Preserve Harwich Port

    Join the Early Conservation Career Network to tour a complex cranberry bog wetland system eco-restoration underway at the 66-acre Robert F. Smith Cold Brook Preserve in Harwich Port. The project will also provide enhanced visitor access, including a half-mile wheelchair accessible trail loop.

  • Jul11

    -

    Networking for Executive Directors of Large Regional Land Trusts

    Zoom

    The suggested focus for this session is Risk Assessment, but conversation in these calls is driven by current issues and concerns of those participating so other topics can also be raised. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series for land trust staff and Board members. This call will not be recorded. Contact Robb Johnson (robb@massland.org) for more information.  

  • Jul9

    -

    Small Staffed Land Trusts: Capacity Building and Staffing Challenges

    Zoom

    Discussion of this topic may include: what does Capacity Building actually mean? Only in Operations, or also Stewardship, Land Acquisition, other? How are you solving the problem? Insights and suggestions from attending Zoomers. Conversation in these calls has been fluid, so other topics of mutual interest may also be discussed. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series for staff and Board members. This call will not be recorded. Register.

  • Jun20

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    Farmland Protection Tools in Massachusetts

    Zoom DATE CHANGE - was June 19, now June 20.

    Massachusetts is losing farmland faster than we can save it. Land trusts can play a part in ensuring land remains available for future generations of farmers! There are many programs (and lots of funding) available to help protect farmland. This session will show you how.

  • Jun14

    -

    June 2024 Conservation Partner Meeting

    Hybrid: in-person at The Trustees' Doyle Center Main Building OR via Zoom (register below) | Directions: 464 Abbott Ave., Leominster | https://thetrustees.org/place/doyle-community-park/

    Land trust staff and board members as well as conservation partners are welcome to this quarterly meeting, featuring relevant news from state agencies, a timely update on state and federal policy matters, announcements, and a featured topic. In June, Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Tom O’Shea will talk about progress in establishing Biodiversity Goals for the Commonwealth. Formerly known as "Steering Committee Meetings", these meetings are convened by MLTC's Partner...

  • Jun5

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    Advancing Equity in Community Engagement: Practical Strategies for Massachusetts Land Trusts

    Zoom

    After a successful session at the Mass. Land Conservation Conference in March 2024, Christina and Michelle return with a focus on equitable community engagement. In this session, they'll delve into practical strategies and actionable steps rooted in DEIB principles, aimed at fostering inclusivity within land trusts. From understanding the significance of inclusivity to navigating the intricacies of...

  • Jun4

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    Landscape-Scale Land Conservation: Steps to Success

    Zoom Registration is now closed.

    This five-part series is targeted to experienced land protection personnel from land trusts and conservation partners who aspire to tackle large or complex land conservation projects in Massachusetts, including those that cross state lines. For these purposes, "landscape-scale" projects are those that may include multiple landowners or require a multi-year...

  • May29

    -

    Building a Strategic Fundraising Program – A Four-Week Course for Massachusetts Land Trusts

    Zoom Registration is now closed.

    This four-part series, offered in partnership with Land Trust Alliance, will provide the tactics needed to better engage with people and raise more money. Topics will include: basic planning protocols, tools to develop strategic fundraising plans, approaches to fundraising from individual donors and funders, and more. Dates & times: Thursdays...

  • May28

    -

    Landscape-Scale Land Conservation: Steps to Success

    Zoom Registration is now closed.

    This five-part series is targeted to experienced land protection personnel from land trusts and conservation partners who aspire to tackle large or complex land conservation projects in Massachusetts, including those that cross state lines. For these purposes, "landscape-scale" projects are those that may include multiple landowners or require a multi-year...

  • May23

    -

    Building a Strategic Fundraising Program – A Four-Week Course for Massachusetts Land Trusts

    Zoom Registration is now closed.

    This four-part series, offered in partnership with Land Trust Alliance, will provide the tactics needed to better engage with people and raise more money. Topics will include: basic planning protocols, tools to develop strategic fundraising plans, approaches to fundraising from individual donors and funders, and more. Dates & times: Thursdays...

  • May21

    -

    Landscape-Scale Land Conservation: Steps to Success

    Zoom Registration is now closed.

    This five-part series is targeted to experienced land protection personnel from land trusts and conservation partners who aspire to tackle large or complex land conservation projects in Massachusetts, including those that cross state lines. For these purposes, "landscape-scale" projects are those that may include multiple landowners or require a multi-year...

  • May16

    -

    Stewardship Staff: Protecting Sensitive Habitat and Species

    Zoom

    How do we as Stewardship staff best protect sensitive habitats and species while also maintaining our properties for the public? Come with your questions, challenges, and insights so we can learn from each other. This call is part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program. It will not be recorded. Register here.

  • May14

    -

    Landscape-Scale Land Conservation: Steps to Success

    Zoom Registration is now closed.

    This five-part series is targeted to experienced land protection personnel from land trusts and conservation partners who aspire to tackle large or complex land conservation projects in Massachusetts, including those that cross state lines. For these purposes, "landscape-scale" projects are those that may include multiple landowners or require a multi-year...

  • May9

    -

    Building a Strategic Fundraising Program – A Four-Week Course for Massachusetts Land Trusts

    Zoom Registration is now closed.

    This four-part series, offered in partnership with Land Trust Alliance, will provide the tactics needed to better engage with people and raise more money. Topics will include: basic planning protocols, tools to develop strategic fundraising plans, approaches to fundraising from individual donors and funders, and more. Dates & times: Thursdays...

  • May7

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    Landscape-Scale Land Conservation: Steps to Success. A 5-Week Course.

    Zoom Registration is now closed.

    This five-part series is targeted to experienced land protection personnel from land trusts and conservation partners who aspire to tackle large or complex land conservation projects in Massachusetts, including those that cross state lines. For these purposes, "landscape-scale" projects are those that may include multiple landowners or require a multi-year...

  • May2

    -

    Building a Strategic Fundraising Program – A Four-Week Course for Massachusetts Land Trusts

    Zoom

    This four-part series, offered in partnership with Land Trust Alliance, will provide the tactics needed to better engage with people and raise more money. Topics will include: basic planning protocols, tools to develop strategic fundraising plans, approaches to fundraising from individual donors and funders, and more. Dates & times: Thursdays…

  • May2

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    Topics of Interest for AVLTs (All Volunteer Land Trusts)

    Zoom

    Today's topic of discussion will be "CRs: Writing Them, Defending Them - Tips and Tricks". Bring your questions and insights so we can learn from each other. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program. This call will not be recorded. Register.

  • Apr11

    -

    Info Session for Land Protection Tools & Techniques Course

    Zoom

    This course is for anyone interested in pursuing land protection as a career, whether or not enrolled in an academic program. The info session will explain the application process and the course. Find the link to the Zoom under View Details.

  • Apr10

    -

    Small Staffed Land Trusts: Board Engagement

    Zoom

    How do we attract, engage, and retain Board members? Let's learn from each other! We can also cover insights and things learned at the Conference which small land trusts may be able to implement. This call is part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program. It will not be recorded.

  • Mar23

    -

    2024 Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference

    UMass Amherst Campus Center 1 Campus Center Way, Amherst

    The conference keynote address will feature Dr. Darren Ranco speaking on "Centering Indigenous Peoples and Nations in Land Protection and Conservation: Wabanaki Possibilities". Dr. Ranco is a citizen of the Penobscot Nation, is a Professor of Anthropology, Chair of Native American Programs, and Faculty Fellow at the Mitchell Center for...

  • Mar22

    -

    Pre-Annual Land Conservation Conference Gathering

    MacLeish Field Station Whately, MA

    Join other Early Conservation Career Network members for an evening of learning and networking before the annual Land Conservation Conference! We will hear from interdisciplinary artist, designer, and woodworker Gina Siepel about their ongoing work To Understand a Tree, which they have created while an artist in residence at the...

  • Mar8

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    March 2024 Conservation Partner Meeting

    Zoom

    Click title for meeting minutes, Katie Theoharides' presentation, meeting agenda, public policy update, and ECCN Survey results.

  • Mar5

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    Topics of Interest to All-Volunteer Land Trusts

    Zoom

    The focus of this call will be "Membership Programs: Yes? No? Alternatives?". Some organizations have membership programs, others don't. Some are moving away from a membership model. Why? What alternatives are there? Come share your experiences, questions, and suggestions. These informal one-hour discussions are intended for staff and board...

  • Feb29

    -

    Endowments and Board-Designated Funds: Does Your Land Trust Need One?

    Zoom

    This free educational webinar presented by Matt Goward CFP, UBS Wealth Management, will address how to create, fund and appropriately manage an endowment, and how endowments and other board-restricted funds may fit into managing your organization's financial sustainability. Hosted by MLTC...

  • Feb8

    -

    Stewardship Roundtable: Unhoused Encampments

    Zoom

    This one-hour Zoom will start with a brief summary by two land trusts of their experiences with homeless encampments, then open the discussion to the group for insights, questions, and sharing their stories. We'll also gauge if there's interest in holding regular topic-based stewardship calls. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together...

  • Jan25

    -

    Development Staff: Sustaining Donor Membership

    Zoom

    Share with your development colleagues from across the state your success stories, questions, and ideas about sustaining donor memberships, and any programs you have (or would like to implement) for retaining and sustaining donors. This call will not be recorded…

  • Dec5

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    Topics of Special Interest to AVLTs (All Volunteer Land Trusts)

    Zoom

    The focus of this call will be Community Outreach and Engagement. Come prepared to share your experiences and ask questions. Topics for discussion might include letters, websites, social media, email list management, reaching kids/teens, etc. This call was not recorded...

  • Nov30

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    Development Staff: Online Giving Days

    Zoom

    We'll discuss "Online Giving Days" - pros, cons, success, ideas. We invite you to share your successful programs, and come with questions for your development colleagues. This call was not recorded...

  • Nov11

    -

    Wildlands Trust Chainsaw Training

    Stewardship Training Center Plymouth, MA

    Learn essential chainsaw techniques and felling principles to tackle storm damage. Bill Girard of Girard Hardwoods will teach everything from safety precautions to proper cutting methods. This in-person training is perfect for individuals who have basic chainsaw skills but are looking to expand their skill set to address some of...

  • Nov3

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    ECCN Overnight at Wildlands Trust Stewardship Training Center

    Plymouth, MA

    Join ECCN for a fun overnight outing at the Wildlands Trust Stewardship Training Center, from Friday evening through late Saturday morning. ECCN will cover the costs of Friday dinner and Saturday breakfast. There will be a small fee for those that wish to stay in a bunk room at the...

  • Oct30

    -

    Agricultural Conservation Working Group

    Hybrid

    This two-hour Zoom will continue the conversation started at the Land Trust / State Agency Retreat about farmland conservation funding and strategy. This conversation will be hosted by MLTC, and guided by David Viale (MDAR's APR program), Jamie Pottern (American Farmland Trust) and Kathy Orlando (Sheffield Land Trust). This call will...

  • Oct26

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    Topics of Special Interest to Small Staffed Land Trusts

    Zoom

    Join this second networking session for staff and Board of Small Staffed Land Trusts. Topics on this call may include: year end appeals, board development, or volunteer recruitment and engagement. We are polling registrants for their topics of interest. There will also be time to ask any urgent questions of...

  • Oct12

    -

    Accessible Trail Partnerships on Mt. Tom & Networking

    Easthampton

    This guided walk in the Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park includes a 2,000 foot accessible path with a beautiful view of the Oxbow & Berkshire foothills. The result of a partnership between Kestrel Land Trust, City of Easthampton and Pascommouck Conservation Trust, this 23 acres adjacent to the Mt. Tom...

  • Sep27

    -

    Development Staff: Engaging Business / Corporate Support

    Zoom

    This month's topic for discussion will be "how to engage corporate and local business support for land conservation". We invite you to share a successful business collaboration, and come with questions for your development colleagues. Facilitated by MLTC. This call was not recorded...

  • Sep22

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    September 2023 Conservation Partner Meeting

    Barnstable Land Trust & Zoom 1540 Main Street, West Barnstable, MA

    Click title for meeting minutes (accepted), quarterly policy update, increased federal funding opportunities, federal funding opportunities, LTA updates, intro notes, and agenda.

  • Sep14

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    MACC's Young Professionals Committee Kick-Off Networking Night

    Craft Food Halls - Revolution Hall Lexington, MA

    Are you within the first ten years of your conservation career in a conservation commission, consulting firm, or are from another association (like a land trust)? The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions' (MACC') Young Professionals Committee has been re-ignited, and meets quarterly to provide networking support, professional development, and educational...

  • Sep14

    -

    Conservation & Housing in Collaboration

    Zoom

    This one-hour discussion will start with a brief summary of potential avenues for collaboration between land conservation and affordable housing that have been covered in prior meetings this year, then discuss whether and how to further dig into any of them. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series, intended for...

  • Aug16

    -

    Agricultural Conservation Interest Group

    Zoom

    Join us to learn about the soon-to-be released Farmland Action Plan, and discuss a two-pronged proposal for accelerating agricultural conservation in Massachusetts. First, MLTC is considering hosting a multi-part training to more fully educate land trusts and others about APR options, tools, and farmland protection in general. Second, MLTC and...

  • Aug15

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    Topics of Special Interest to AVLTs (All Volunteer Land Trusts)

    Zoom

    The focus of this call will be Human Resources, with topics such as contractors vs. staff, growing the organization, hiring and firing, "staffing" both volunteer and paid, and others as participants bring up. Facilitated by MLTC. This call will not be recorded...

  • Jul31

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    Topics of Special Interest to Small Staffed Land Trusts

    Zoom

    Small Staffed Land Trusts often face a unique set of concerns running their organizations. Topics of interest could include: managing a sustainable volunteer program, staffing vs. contractors, efficiency tools, project best practices and more. Bring your questions and ideas. Facilitated by MLTC. This discussion will not be recorded...

  • Jul12

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    Development Staff: Growing Land Trust Membership

    Zoom

    Join development colleagues to network and gather ideas on this month's focus topic of Growing Land Trust Membership. Share an approach that's been successful and / or describe a challenge that the group may be able to address. Facilitated by MLTC. This call will not be recorded...

  • Jun29

    -

    Fundamentals of Land Protection

    Zoom

    This five-part series is targeted to land trust and municipal staff and volunteers who are interested in better understanding or directly engaging in land conservation transactions, but who have limited prior experience (i.e., zero to five conservation deals under their belts). Topics include: June 1 - The Basics of Land...

  • Jun27

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    Conservation & Housing in Collaboration

    Zoom

    The focus of this call will be "How to Partner with an Affordable Housing Advocate / Developer / Community Land Trust". Facilitated by MLTC. This discussion will not be recorded...

  • Jun22

    -

    Fundamentals of Land Protection

    Zoom

    This five-part series is targeted to land trust and municipal staff and volunteers who are interested in better understanding or directly engaging in land conservation transactions, but who have limited prior experience (i.e., zero to five conservation deals under their belts). Topics include: June 1 - The Basics of Land…

  • Jun15

    -

    Fundamentals of Land Protection

    Zoom

    This five-part series is targeted to land trust and municipal staff and volunteers who are interested in better understanding or directly engaging in land conservation transactions, but who have limited prior experience (i.e., zero to five conservation deals under their belts). Topics include: June 1 - The Basics of Land…

  • Jun13

    -

    Kickstart the Agricultural Conservation Working Group

    Zoom

    Do you work with the agricultural community and want to enhance what can be done to support farmland protection and farming in the state? Join this group of stakeholders to convene around agricultural conservation. This will follow in the footsteps of successful MLTC working groups that have revised the state’s...

  • Jun8

    -

    Fundamentals of Land Protection

    Zoom

    This five-part series is targeted to land trust and municipal staff and volunteers who are interested in better understanding or directly engaging in land conservation transactions, but who have limited prior experience (i.e., zero to five conservation deals under their belts). Topics include: June 1 - The Basics of Land…

  • Jun1

    -

    Fundamentals of Land Protection

    Zoom

    This five-part series is targeted to land trust and municipal staff and volunteers who are interested in better understanding or directly engaging in land conservation transactions, but who have limited prior experience (i.e., zero to five conservation deals under their belts). Topics include: June 1 - The Basics of Land…

  • May24

    -

    Topics of Special Interest to AVLTs (All Volunteer Land Trusts)

    Zoom

    All Volunteer Land Trusts often face a unique set of concerns running their organizations. Today's discussion will touch upon some of those, such as succession planning and hiring staff or contractors, and perhaps others. Facilitated by MLTC. This discussion was not recorded...

  • May23

    -

    Foraging at the Acton Arboretum

    Acton Arboretum Parking Lot 2 Taylor Road, Acton, MA

    The Acton Arboretum is home to over 80 species of edible wild plants, many of which are more nutritious and/or flavorful than their cultivated counterparts. If you're in your first 10 years of a conservation career, come join the Early Conservation Career Network and Russ Cohen, author of Wild...

  • May17

    -

    Development Staff: Strengthening Fundraising Efforts / Expanding Funding Opportunities

    Zoom

    Join MA land trust development colleagues to follow up on the lunchtime gathering that took place at the March MLTC conference. Our aim is to strengthen connections, increase opportunities to network and collaborate on fundraising efforts, and ultimately expand funding for the vital work of land trusts in the Commonwealth...

  • May12

    -

    Fuller Farm Walking Tour

    Fuller Farm 995 Route 149, Marstons Mills

    Join ECCN and Barnstable Land Trust on a walking tour of Fuller Farm. Protected by BLT in 2012, the historic dairy farm is now being managed to support community partners focused on sustainable agriculture, provide educational programs for the community, and restore and enhance sandplain grassland habitat. Following the tour...

  • May8

    -

    Conservation and Housing in Collaboration

    Zoom

    Building on the momentum of the conservation / housing discussions at the annual conference on March 25, as well as the urgency to find solutions to protecting land to meet climate goals and the (affordable) housing crunch affecting Massachusetts, this networking discussion provides an opportunity to share thoughts and ideas with...

  • Mar24

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    Pre-conference Hike and Pizza at Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center

    414 Massasoit Road Worcester, MA

    This evening before the Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference, we welcome you to join us at Mass Audubon's Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center in Worcester. We'll hear from Mass Audubon staff Deb Cary, Community Advocacy and Engagement Manager and Jenn Madsen, Regional Director, while enjoying pizza provided by the Mass Land...

  • Feb10

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    ECCN / MLTC Gathering - Winter 2023, Western MA

    Notchview Reservation 83 Old Rte 9, Windsor, MA

    Ski/Snowshoe in a Boreal Forest and Climate Adaptation Presentation. Maximum of 20 participants. Cost: $10 / day pass for The Trustees members, $15 for non-members. Cash or card. Some financial assistance is available. The cost of ski and snowshoe rentals and lessons provided by The Trustees. Calling all members of...

  • Dec1

    -

    ECCN Gathering – Fall 2022, Southeastern MA

    D.W. Field Park Brockton

    Schedule: 2:30 – Meet at the park’s main parking lot on Oak St.   |   2:30 - 3:45 – Walk around Upper Porter Pond and Waldo Lake, about 2 miles (mostly paved). Learn about the park’s history, current uses, and how Wildlands is working with the city and other key partners to...

  • Oct4

    -

    Being Prepared for "What If"

    This series took place on five consecutive Tuesdays from 4:00 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. starting October 4, 2022. MLTC is collaborating with the Land Trust Alliance and Maine Land Trust Network to help you ensure the permanence of your land trust and its conserved lands. This new...

  • Sep23

    -

    September 2022 Steering Committee Meeting

    Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary & Zoom 127 Combs Road, Easthampton, MA

    Click title for meeting minutes, agenda, pre-meeting walk details, in-person directions and registration link.

  • Sep12

    -

    Building Community Connections to Advance DEI

    Zoom

    This Stronger Together networking discussion provides an opportunity for land trust staff and board members to exchange ideas on efforts to advance racial justice, equity and inclusion initiatives within their organizations. This session will focus on sharing ideas on how to build and strengthen relationships with communities that have been...

  • Aug19

    -

    Tour of SVT's Horse Meadows Knoll

    Horse Meadows Knoll 45 Sherry Road, Harvard, MA

    Schedule: 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. - Horse Meadows Knoll tour / 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. - social hour at Carlson Orchards Taproom, 115 Oak Hill Rd, Harvard, MA. Join Sudbury Valley Trustees staff to learn about the acquisition and stewardship of beautiful Horse Meadows Knoll in Harvard. This guided...

  • Apr8

    -

    Blue Hills Trailside Museum Tour

    Blue Hills Trailside Museum 1904 Canton Avenue, Milton, MA

    Join the Young Land Professionals (YLP) for an afternoon with Mass Audubon Staff for a private tour of the Blue Hills Trailside Museum (1904 Canton Avenue, Milton, MA). This guided walk, which includes native wildlife exhibits and a natural history museum, will better connect you with New England nature and...

  • Feb15

    -

    Boot Camp for Land Trust Board Members

    Zoom

    Five consecutive Tuesdays, February 15 - March 15, 2022, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. This five-part series provides an orientation to unique elements of land trust work and important roles that Board members play. Drawing from Land Trust Alliance Standards and Practices and feedback received from Massachusetts land trusts, Alliance...

  • Jan26

    Leadership Succession Planning for Land Trusts

    Zoom

    Four 90-minute sessions: January 26, February 2, February 9 and March 9, 2022 via Zoom. At its heart, succession planning  is not about replacing people but a way to facilitate change and growth, making your mission more enduring. Through a series of virtual sessions with separate tracks for staffed and... 

  • Jan19

    -

    Fielding and Responding to Concerns about Safety of Trail Users

    Zoom

    Have you heard increased concerns about trail user safety in the wake of the late November attack on a woman hiking at the Middlesex Fells? If so, have you been wondering about an appropriate response? Are more group hikes a good idea? Additional signage or social media messages? This "Stronger...

  • Dec10

    -

    December 2021 Steering Committee Meeting

    Virtual

    Click title for meeting minutes, staff Report, LTC Updates, MDAR Farmland Action Plan, Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, and agenda.

  • Nov15

    -

    Help MLTC Work for You: A Forum for All-Volunteer Land Trusts

    Zoom

    Join us for this networking discussion that provides an opportunity for board members of all-volunteer land trusts to provide input on MLTC's 5-year strategic planning process that is currently underway. How can MLTC be a better advocate for you? Or help with your technical, funding, communications or other needs? Hosted...

  • Nov11

    -

    Landowner Webinar Series: Plan for Your Land

    Zoom

    2nd Thursday of each month, November 2021 - April 2022, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Hosted by UMass MassWoods. This six-part webinar series for landowners will feature relevant professionals to provide information and help answer questions. Sign up for individual webinars or the entire series. Learn more. November...

  • Sep22

    -

    COVID and Your Fall Events

    Zoom

    This informal "Stronger Together" networking discussion sponsored by MLTC provides an opportunity for conservation leaders to share questions and ideas about how news regarding COVID breakthroughs and variants is impacting plans for your fall meetings and events. Go live or virtual? Hybrid? Masks or no masks? Exchange ideas with peers...

  • Sep15

    -

    Learning Collaborative: Advancing Racial Justice, Equity and Inclusion for Land Trusts

    Zoom

    Wednesdays September 15, September 29 and October 20, 2021, 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., via Zoom. This interactive three-part learning collaborative is for land trusts leaders interested in exploring ways to advance equity and inclusion initiatives. Led by Dr. Neenah Estrella-Luna, a dynamic researcher, educator and advocate…

  • Sep15

    -

    River Restoration Hike at Mass Audubon Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary

    Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary 60 Beaver Dam Road, Plymouth, MA

    Join the Young Land Professionals for an afternoon with Mass Audubon staff for a hike in the recently restored Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary. Learn how this former cranberry bog underwent the largest freshwater ecological restoration in the Northeast while exploring the cold water streams, ponds, forests and wetlands that now populate...

  • May27

    -

    Environmental Protection at the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office: Lessons and Opportunities for Massachusetts Land Trusts

    Zoom

    Attorneys from the AG’s Office will discuss the Environmental Protection Division's work tackling climate change, challenging recent federal environmental rollbacks, enforcing state wetlands laws, and furthering environmental justice across the Commonwealth. The presentation will include lessons learned and opportunities for land trust engagement on some of the most pressing environmental...

  • May10

    -

    Models for Land Trust Collaboration: A Stronger Together Learning Collaborative

    Zoom

    Three sessions, beginning Monday May 10, 2021, 10:00 a.m. - noon via Zoom. Next sessions Monday May 17, 10 a.m. - noon; and Monday June 14, 10 a.m. - noon. This interactive three-part workshop is for land trusts leaders interested in exploring the possibility of formalized collaboration with other...

  • May6

    -

    Land Trusts and the APR Program: Increasing the Pace of Farmland Preservation

    Zoom

    David Viale, Agricultural Lands Program Manager with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, will lead a discussion with land trust representatives to explore ways to improve the Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) acquisition process. Input will be sought on topics including shortening the APR acquisition timeline; increasing available funding and the...

  • Mar24

    -

    Expanding Eligibility for Protection Funding through Farmland of Local Importance

    Zoom

    To date, NRCS in Massachusetts has routinely recognized prime farmland, unique farmland, and farmland of statewide importance as eligible for agricultural easement programs, including those conducted in partnership with Massachusetts' APR program. If additional important soil types were recognized, more farms would be eligible for easement funding. In 2019, the...

  • Dec11

    -

    December 2020 Steering Committee Meeting

    Virtual

    Click title for meeting minutes, MDAR APR keynote presentation (including application process), public policy update, and draft agenda.

  • Oct28

    -

    Network while tree planting for floodplain restoration at Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary

    Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary Old Springfield Rd, Northampton, MA

    Note: we are meeting at the project location, not the Sanctuary Nature Center. Please register so we can control group size. Masks must be worn for the duration of the event. Join us for an afternoon of tree planting in Northampton, MA for floodplain restoration with a discussion following the...

  • Oct20

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    Network while volunteering on a hops farm at Wildlands Trust's Eel River Fields

    Wildlands Trust's Eel River Fields 93 Clifford Road, Plymouth, MA

    Please register so we can control group size, and plan to wear your mask for the duration of the event. Grab your mask and join us in Plymouth, MA to volunteer on a hop farm and sample some hoppy products. Brewer Paul Nixon, owner of Independent Fermentations Brewing (IndieFerm), grew...

  • Sep23

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    September 2020 Steering Committee Meeting

    Virtual

    Click title for meeting minutes, 2050 Roadmap to a clean and thriving Commonwealth -- presented by Rep. Joan Meschino, public policy update, staff report, and draft agenda.

  • Mar27

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    CANCELLED -- Annual Pre-Conference Gathering

    Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary Worcester, MA

    It's our third annual pre-conference gathering, hosted by your Young Land Professionals committee! Join us for a presentation by Dan Clark of DCR - Division of Water Supply Protection, followed by networking, discussion, and pizza at Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary. Afterwards, all are welcome to join us for beer and...

  • Mar6

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    March 2020 Steering Committee Meeting

    Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Conference Room 73 Weir Hill Rd, Sudbury, MA

    Click title for meeting minutes, draft agenda, and public policy update.

  • Feb12

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    Young Land Professionals & MACC Young Professionals Social Hour

    Springdale Beer Company 102 Clinton Street, Framingham, MA

    The MassLand Young Land Professionals are joining forces with the Mass Association of Conservation Commission’s Young Professionals Committee for a social hour at Springdale Brewery in Framingham. Attendees will have the opportunity to socialize with their fellow young professionals in the nonprofit sector and municipal conservation departments. While we all...

  • Dec13

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    December 2019 Steering Committee Meeting

    Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Conference Room 73 Weir Hill Rd, Sudbury, MA

    Click title for draft agenda, meeting minutes, public policy update, MDAR January 2020 Public Listening Sessions, memo: Change to federal charitable deductions associated with state tax credits, and presentation: Land Conservation - An Important Climate Solution.

  • Oct18

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    Hike and Social Hour

    North Adams, MA

    Enjoy a hike to Sunset Rock during peak fall colors with guest speaker Elena Traister, Professor of Environmental Studies at MCLA. Meet at 3:30 pm at the Hoosac Range Trail trailhead, 2441 Mohawk Trail, North Adams. Top the evening off with a social hour starting at 6 pm at...

  • Aug2

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    Mid-Summer Networking Event

    Spectacle Island in Boston Harbor

    Calling all Massachusetts Young Land Professionals! Join us for a mid-summer YLP networking event on Spectacle Island in Boston Harbor on Friday, August 2nd from 2:15-6:00 PM. Explore the island with staff from the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation and the National Park Service to learn about...

  • Jun11

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    June 2019 Steering Committee Meeting

    Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Conference Room 73 Weir Hill Road, Sudbury, MA

    Click title for agenda and meeting minutes.

  • May22

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    Spring Networking Event

    Ipswich, MA

    Please join us Wednesday, May 22 for the spring networking event of the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition's Young Land Professionals group! We'll be meeting at the Ipswich River Watershed Association (IRWA) and True North Ale Company. First enjoy a presentation from IRWA staff centered around their history, current work, and...

  • Mar22

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    Young Land Professionals Annual Gathering

    Worcester, MA

    Join us the night before the annual Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference for an evening of pizza, networking, and discussion in Worcester. Our annual event is a great way to make new friends and connections and enjoy some of what Worcester has to offer while you're in town for the conference...

  • Mar1

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    March 2019 Steering Committee Meeting

    Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge 680 Hudson Rd, Sudbury, MA

    Click title for agenda, legislative update, information on H.897, record keeping initiative, and meeting minutes.

  • Feb21

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    Winter Young Land Professionals Gathering

    Nashoba Valley Winery Bolton, MA

    Please join us for the winter networking gathering of the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition's Young Land Professional group! We'll be meeting at the Nashoba Valley Winery in Bolton. Nashoba Valley Winery is a 52-acre orchard, winery, distillery, brewery, restaurant, and function center protected with an Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR). This...

  • Dec13

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    December 2018 Steering Committee Meeting

    Brigham Hill Community Farm Barn 37 Wheeler Road, North Grafton, MA

    Click title for agenda, presentation by Dr. Christoph Nolte - Boston University on Impacts of permanent protection of private lands on forest loss and development in Massachusetts, paper: Voluntary, permanent land protection reduces forest loss and development in a rural-urban landscape, sponsorship form, and meeting minutes.

  • Nov7

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    Fall Young Land Professionals Gathering

    New Bedford, MA

    Meet and mingle with other MassLand Young Land Professionals on a private walking tour with the National Park Service, followed by a social hour at Moby Dick Brewing.  Home to the Buzzards Bay Coalition and the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, New Bedford was once the biggest whaling port...

  • Sep28

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    September 2018 Steering Committee Meeting

    Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Conference Room 73 Weir Hill Road, Sudbury, MA

    Click title for agenda and meeting minutes.

  • Sep20

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    Leadership Workshop for Board Members and Executive Directors

    Fidelity Bank Community Room 9 Leominster Connector, Leominster, MA

    Leadership Workshop for Board Members and Executive Directors. Located at Fidelity Bank Community Room, 9 Leominster Connector, Leominster, MA...

  • Jul26

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    Young Land Professionals Gathering

    The Cox Reservation

    A group of MassLand's Young Land Professionals gathered at Greenbelt's headquarters, the Cox Reservation. Individuals from Mass Audubon, the Appalachian Mountain Club, Essex National Heritage Area, The Trust for Public Land, Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust, and Greenbelt gathered for a guided tour of the property (under a spectacular double rainbow)...

  • Jun12

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    Protecting Biodiversity in a Changing Climate

    Brigham Hill Community Farm 37 Wheeler Road, Grafton, MA

    Protecting Biodiversity in a Changing Climate. Located at Brigham Hill Community Farm, 37 Wheeler Road, Grafton, MA...

  • May17

    Young Land Professionals Event

    Housatonic Flats and Barrington Brewery Western Massachusetts

    MassLand's Young Land Professionals Event at the Housatonic Flats and Barrington Brewery in Western Massachusetts was a great success! Sixteen individuals were present, including the speakers, Christine Ward with the Great Barrington Land Conservancy and Mackenzie Greer with the Berkshire Natural Resources Council. The speakers discussed conservation work at the...

  • May11

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    May 2018 Steering Committee Meeting

    Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge Conference Room 680 Hudson Road, Sudbury, MA

    Click title for agenda, meeting minutes, and legislative update.

  • Mar23

    Young Land Professionals Event

    Club House at Cook's Pond Worcester, MA

    About 40 Young Land Professionals traveled out to the Club House at Cook's Pond in Worcester, where Greater Worcester Land Trust's Colin Novick spoke, offering inspiring advice to the next generation of conservation leaders. The group then gathered at the Residence Inn in Worcester for a networking hour...

  • Feb23

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    February 2018 Steering Committee Meeting

    DFW Field Headquarters / Southeast Conference Room 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough, MA

    Click title for meeting minutes, legislative update, CR Amendment Clause sample workaround, Dogs on Conservation Land presentation 1, and Dogs on Conservation Land presentation 2.

  • Dec4

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    Combat Communications

    Brigham Hill Community Farm 37 Wheeler Road, Grafton, MA

    Combat Communications. Located at Brigham Hill Community Farm, 37 Wheeler Road, Grafton, MA...

  • Sep21

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    Stewardship

    Greenbelt, Cox Reservation 82 Eastern Avenue, Essex, MA

    Stewardship. Located at Greenbelt, Cox Reservation, 82 Eastern Avenue, Essex, MA...

  • Feb4

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    Cracking the Communication Nut

    Upper Cape Technical High School 220 Sandwich Road, Bourne, MA

    Cracking the Communication Nut. Hosted by Southeastern Massachusetts Land Trust Convocation. Located at Upper Cape Technical High School, 220 Sandwich Road, Bourne, MA...