eNews
The Newsletter of the Massachusetts Land Conservation Community |
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| August 21 2025, Volume 23, Number 8 |
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View of Awâhsh Uwatuhshât
Indigenous-Led Conservation Effort Protects 17 Acres in Harwich
17 acres of forestland in Harwich, formerly known as Hawksnest East and once zoned for a six-home subdivision, have been permanently protected. Adjacent to Hawksnest State Park, the land was purchased in March 2025 by the Native Land Conservancy for $1 million, with support from the Harwich Conservation Trust, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, local officials, neighbors, the EEA State Forest Reserve Grant, and public donors. Now named Awâhsh Uwatuhshât, the land’s protection preserves critical groundwater for 10,000 households and deepens Indigenous stewardship while expanding the Hawksnest conservation area.
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If you are an MLTC Member and would like to see your completed conservation project featured in our next eNews, contact Lauren Berk at lberk@massland.org.
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| This month I enjoyed a nice summer walk at Natural Resources Trust of Easton's Sheep Pasture.
#OurMassLandTrusts |
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| Massachusetts State Gathering at Rally
Friday September 5, 6:30 - 7:30+ pm, The Great Room, Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower (1360 West Mall Drive)
Attending Rally in Cleveland this year? Anyone with Massachusetts connections is invited to join our traditional Massachusetts State Gathering. This year we're opting for an informal get-together, where drinks, appetizers and small plates will be available a la carte on separate bills in a section of the hotel's Great Room. Ask the host to point you to the Massachusetts gathering. The venue is right by the conference center, so stop by for a drink or more and say hello! Please register (free), so we have an idea of how many people to expect.
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| Development Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday September 10, 3:00 - 4:00 pm, via Zoom
Open to anyone with development responsibilities, this quarter's call will focus on building business partnership programs and how to engage business sponsors. Join us to share experiences, ask questions, and learn from each other. Newcomers welcome. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program, this call will not be recorded. Free, but registration required. |
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| ECCN Fall Migration Bird Walk in Dartmouth Wednesday September 10, 3:00 - 5:00 pm, in-person, Dartmouth Natural Resources' Trust Smith Farm, Dartmouth MA
Join ECCN for a fall migration bird walk led by Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust’s Land Manager, Linda Vanderveer, at DNRT’S Smith Farm. The 140-acre Reserve contains a variety of habitats – agricultural farmland, meadows, upland forest, freshwater wetland, wetland forest, ponds, streams and salt marsh – and presents the opportunity to observe a variety of birds. Learn more.
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| Joint Land Protection / Stewardship Quarterly Call Thursday September 11, 3:00 - 4:00 pm, via Zoom
Land Protection and Stewardship functions overlap in certain aspects. This quarter's call will offer a forum for both roles to ask questions, voice concerns, and offer insights as to how to work together more efficiently. The focus topic will be: "Communication and coordination between Land Protection and Stewardship functions in the course of land protection projects". Anyone is welcome to attend who holds these positions or oversees them. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program. This call will not be recorded. Free, but registration required.
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| September 2025 Conservation Partners Meeting Friday September 12, 10:00 am - 12:15 pm, in-person at MassWildlife, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough MA, and via Zoom
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. September's topic will be: "plans for a 2026 Ballot Campaign to establish a dedicated funding stream for land conservation". These meetings are convened by MLTC's Partner Engagement Committee: Kathy Orlando, Chair, Olivia Lukacic, Vice-Chair. A detailed agenda will be sent in advance to all registrants. Only register if attending on Zoom.
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| Apply for the 2025-2026 ECCN Mentorship Program Mentee and Mentor application deadline: Friday September 12
To foster opportunities for continued learning, building connections, and professional development in the land conservation field, MLTC’s Early Conservation Career Network (ECCN) is welcoming applications for the ECCN Mentorship Program. This is not an internship, but rather an informal and organic mentorship opportunity designed to connect emerging professionals with experienced leaders in their field. Through this opportunity, 5-7 mentor and mentee matches will be established. Review guidelines and email Olivia Barksdale at obarksdale@acton-ma.gov and Thomas Patti at Tpatti@wildlandstrust.org with questions. Apply for the program here: Mentee Application & Mentor Application.
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NEW! ECCN Lunch & Learn: Spadefoot Toad Conservation with Mass Audubon Monday September 15, 12:00 - 1:00 pm, via Zoom
What does it take to bring a tiny, specialized creature back from the brink of extinction? Spend your lunch hour with Ian Ives of Mass Audubon’s Spadefoot Toad Conservation Project to find out. Since 2011, Mass Audubon has established a translocated population of spadefoots at newly created vernal pools at Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary in East Falmouth. This project is a first for this state-threatened species. Learn more.
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| ECCN Lunch & Learn: Using GIS to Identify and Prioritize Land Protection Projects
Thursday September 18, 12:00 - 1:00 pm, via Zoom
Abby Hardy-Moss (Vice President of Stewardship, Planning, and Technology) and Becca Smalley (GIS Specialist) from the Essex County Greenbelt Association will review various data layers that can be used to help identify parcels of interest and gain a better understanding of their conservation values. An overview of Greenbelt’s Conservation Prioritization GIS analysis project will be provided, including a case study of how Greenbelt identifies and prioritizes potential land protection projects. Learn more.
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NEW! ECCN Spadefoot Toad Monitoring Night with Mass Audubon Thursday September 18, 7:00 - 9:00 pm, in-person, Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary, East Falmouth MA
Join ECCN, Ian Ives, and Jay Cordeiro of Mass Audubon’s Spadefoot Toad Conservation Project for an evening of amphibious adventure at Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary in East Falmouth. Since 2011, Mass Audubon and its partners have translocated thousands of young spade foot toads to restored breeding pools at Ashumet Holly from a healthy population in Barnstable. Learn more.
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| Field Trip: Cold Brook-Eco Restoration Project Friday September 19, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, in-person, Harwich MA
Experience the freshly restored Robert F. Smith Cold Brook Preserve in Harwich Port during a guided walk led by Harwich Conservation Trust Board President Tom Evans. Tour the new half-mile All Persons Trail which crosses two bridges with views of Cold Brook flowing freely through the 66-acre Preserve for the first time in over a century. Learn how this project, recognized with MLTC’s 2025 Excellence in Conservation Award, enhanced the health of the land and water for the benefit of people and wildlife.
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| Land Trust Finance Peer Networking Group Thursday September 25, 1:00 - 2:00 pm, via Zoom
Finance staff, board treasurers, and others with fiscal responsibilities -- join us for a networking call to share resources, ask questions, and learn from each other. This month's call will focus on tracking grants, including systems used and best practices for managing restrictions, reporting and compliance. Time permitting, participants may be able to raise questions on other issues too. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program. Newcomers welcome! Free, but registration required.
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| Field Trip: Nature-based Solutions in Devens Friday September 26, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, in-person, Devens MA
Nature-based solutions provide many co-benefits, such as increasing carbon sequestration, biodiversity, ecosystem connectivity, soil health, air/water quality, and much more. Join a bus tour of Devens for a first-hand view of some of the nature-based solutions that have been implemented. Tour stops will include low-impact development (LID) stormwater systems, pocket forests, stream daylighting and restoration and pollinator meadow installations. Neil Angus and Beth Suedmeyer from the Devens Enterprise Commission will offer tips on collaboration, incentives for mitigation and restoration, and examples of successful nature-based climate resilience projects.
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| Submit a Workshop Proposal for the Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference Proposals due: Tuesday September 30 Workshops will take place Friday, March 13, 10:00 am - 3:40 pm at UMass Amherst.
This year features a new one-hour time slot in addition to two traditional 75-minute periods, and a later start time (10 a.m. vs. 9:30 a.m.). View details and submit a proposal. |
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| Become a Sponsor or Exhibitor! A variety of sponsorship levels provide visibility for your organization before a live audience of over 550 – plus thousands more who see Conference publicity. Show your organization's commitment to protecting our environment, habitats, and climate, and your support of a great learning opportunity for the conservation community. Exhibitor-only options are also available.
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| Land Trust / State Agency Retreat Wednesday October 8 (full day) and Thursday October 9 (half day). Both days in-person only, with optional overnight. Attend one or both days.
This annual event features timely discussions on topics of mutual interest to land trusts and State agency partners. This year will feature fewer presentations and more time for interactive discussion. Agenda topics include priorities for allocation of reduced State grant funding, the State's comprehensive land use plan, and how we communicate the importance of land conservation amidst other needs. And no Retreat is complete without Russ Cohen's Conservation Trivia, which we look forward to again this year. Learn more. If you are an ECCN member please contact Lauren Berk at lberk@massland.org for discounted registration and lodging.
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NEW! How to Find Potential Title Problems in a Proposed Acquisition Project Wednesday October 15, 3:00 - 4:15 pm via Zoom
Hosted by Irene Del Bono, retired attorney with extensive background in property and environmental law in both private practice and at the EEA, this seminar will be a comprehensive guide to help you locate deeds that are hard to find; what to do when there are references to things potentially affecting the title; and what it will take to "fix" title issues. This is not a class on title examinations - which should be done by an attorney – but is intended to give you insight into title issues that will help you find and work with an attorney versed in problems that may arise in the course of your land protection work. Learn more.
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NEW! Small-Staffed Land Trusts Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday October 22, 12:00 - 1:00 pm, via Zoom
Open to anyone with responsibilities of running or working in a small-staffed land trust, this quarter's topic will focus on organizing and working with board subcommittees that blend trustee and non-trustee participants. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series, this call will not be recorded. Newcomers welcome! Free, but registration required. |
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| AVLT (All-Volunteer Land Trust) Quarterly Networking Call Wednesday October 22, 3:00 - 4:00 pm via Zoom
This month's focus topic is "Partnering with your town's organizations". It's a broad topic, and attendees' questions and experiences will mold the discussion. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program, this is a forum for AVLTs to learn from each other and tackle their unique challenges. Newcomers welcome! The call will not be recorded. Free, but registration required. |
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NEW! Nominations Open for 2026 Excellence in Conservation Award Nominations due Sunday November 30
The MLTC Excellence in Conservation Award is presented to a land trust or a collaboration of conservation partners in recognition of a specific project completed within the past two years that demonstrates excellence in any aspect of land conservation work, advances the cause of land conservation in a creative and substantive way, and/or serves as an inspiration for other conservation organizations in Massachusetts. The Award will be presented by MLTC’s Conservation Advisory Council during the plenary session of the Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference on Friday, March 13, 2026. Learn more.
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Support MLTC with Your Membership!
Thanks so much to many who have already responded to our FY26 membership drive! Join MLTC to support everything we do. Display your MLTC membership on your website with our new membership badge! To request the image file, email Lauren Berk at lberk@massland.org.
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Connect With Us on Social Media! |
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| Follow us on social media for more frequent updates on upcoming programs and latest developments! |
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Ballot Initiative Proposed for Conservation Funding
For over a year, a broad Nature for Massachusetts Coalition has been advancing a proposal to dedicate a portion of the state sales tax on sporting goods and recreational vehicles to a fund for natural resource conservation, including land acquisition and restoration. The coalition worked with legislative sponsors, Rep. Blais, Rep. Montaño & Sen. Feeney, to introduce The Nature for All Bill (H.901/S.597) in January, and a hearing on the bill was held on July 1. While legislative action on the bill is pending, some members of the larger Coalition, led by Mass Audubon, have decided to mount a parallel effort to place the matter before voters in November 2026 via initiative petition. To qualify for the ballot, language of the measure must be approved by the Attorney General this fall, and supporters must submit nearly 75,000 certified signatures to the Secretary of State in December. Two slightly different versions of the ballot measure were submitted to the Attorney General by the August 6 deadline. (See 25-15 and 25-16 on this list). Proponents filed two versions in case the more detailed version is disqualified by the Attorney General for technical reasons. A new Coalition is forming to work on the ballot strategy, including signature gathering. For information, contact james@field-first.com. This ballot campaign will be the featured topic at MLTC’s Conservation Partners Meeting on September 12. (See MLTC News and Programs for details).
One Big Beautiful Bill’s Impact on Philanthropy
On July 4, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1) into law. Among the law’s sweeping provisions are several related to charitable giving. These provisions take effect for tax years beginning January 1, 2026. For donors that itemize deductions, the law will now allow deductions only for the value of contributions that exceeds 0.5% of the donor’s adjusted gross income (AGI). Itemizers can deduct a maximum of 60% of AGI for cash gifts to qualified charities. Donors in the highest tax bracket (37%) should be aware that a new provision caps deductions at 35% of the value donated. On the plus side, the law increases the amount that non-itemizers can deduct for charitable contributions – to $1,000 for individuals and $2,000 for joint filers. The standard deduction for those who don’t itemize will increase to $15,750 ($31,500 for joint filers) in 2026, and be tied to inflation in future years. This could reduce the number of taxpayers who itemize, potentially reducing incentives for larger charitable gifts. Corporate donors are also impacted. Beginning in January, they will only be allowed to claim a charitable tax deduction if their giving exceeds 1% of their taxable income. (It remains unclear if corporations will be able to deduct the full amount of their giving, or only the amount of giving that exceeds 1% of taxable income.) A pre-existing cap limiting corporate deductions to 10% of taxable income remains in place. Donors should seek their own financial and tax advice, but depending on their circumstances, some may wish to consider making charitable contributions by December 31 to take advantage of rules in place before the new law takes effect. Nonprofits may wish to review fundraising strategies, especially for corporate and major individual donors, and proactively communicate with supporters about these changes – taking care, as always, not to offer tax or legal advice. Read more.
Support Expanding the Conservation Land Tax Credit Written testimony due Wednesday September 1
On July 15, the Joint Committee on Revenue held a hearing on S.2083/H.3147, An Act increasing the conservation land tax credit. This bill would expand the annual cap on the state's conservation land tax credit program, resolving a long-standing waitlist for landowners willing to permanently conserve environmentally significant properties. Organizations wishing to join a sign-on letter can email Zachary Sheldon at zachary.sheldon@tnc.org. To submit your own testimony, email it to: JointCommittee.Revenue@malegislature.gov and Anestis.Kalaitzidis@mahouse.gov. See MLTC's testimony here.
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Governor Healey Launches Commission to Ensure Fair Payments for State-Owned Land
On August 13, Governor Healey signed an Executive Order to create a Commission on State-Owned Land PILOT Program (PILOT stands for Payments In Lieu Of Taxes). The program aims to ensure fair and equitable distribution of payments to local communities that host state-owned land, which is exempt from property taxes. The commission’s work signals a state focus on balancing financial impacts across regions, potentially shaping how land trusts collaborate with governments and plan for future conservation efforts. Learn more.
$2.5 Million Awarded for Landscape Conservation Projects
On August 1, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced two grants awarded under EEA’s Landscape Partnership Program, which was established in 2011 to facilitate large-scale land conservation projects. The Spruce Hill Forest Conservation Project – a collaboration between Kestel Land Trust, the Town of Westhampton, The Trustees and Hilltown Land Trust – received $1.25 million to conserve 793 acres of forest land that builds upon a corridor of 2,200 acres of previously protected land. The Palmer Brook Conservation Project – a collaboration between Mass Audubon and The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation – received $1.25 million to protect 795 acres on the shores of Palmer Brook Reservoir in Becket, adjacent to October Mountain State Forest. Read more.
$2.9 Million Awarded for Stream Continuity Projects
On August 14, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced over $2.9 million in grants to support ecological restoration efforts throughout Massachusetts. A total of 21 towns have received funding from the Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) for culvert replacement projects that will improve wildlife habitat, reduce flood risk and foster safer and more sustainable communities. Learn more.
TerraCorps Update
On August 21, David Graham Wolf shared this news with MLTC: "TerraCorps is pleased to announce that its AmeriCorps grant funding was restored and members reinstated in July 2025 following intervention by the federal courts. With this renewed support, TerraCorps will launch a new cohort of 42 members in Massachusetts and Rhode Island in September 2025. While many AmeriCorps programs were not as fortunate to continue operating without disruption, we are deeply grateful to our community of partners and alumni whose support made it possible for TerraCorps to keep moving forward in unprecedented times." Applications from those interested in serving are due August 29. See Jobs section below for details.
Appeals Court Affirms Drought Restrictions
On July 31, the Massachusetts Appeals Court affirmed a lower court's decision that the state can legally require registered water users to restrict nonessential outdoor water use during droughts. Mass Rivers and eleven of its member organizations submitted an amicus brief supporting MassDEP regulations that had been challenged by a group of water suppliers. The decision affirms the importance of tools to protect the sustainability of rivers and water supplies as climate change brings projected increases in seasonal drought. Read more.
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How to Rally: Navigating the 2025 National Land Conservation Conference
Friday August 22, 12:00 pm
Rally 2025 will take place in Cleveland, Ohio, from Wednesday September 3– Saturday September 6, and offers a robust schedule of training sessions and networking opportunities. First-time attendees—or those seeking a refresher—are encouraged to join an introductory webinar. These sessions will provide an overview of Rally programming, offer tips for making the most of the experience, and create an opportunity to connect with fellow participants from across the country. Learn more and register.
NEW! Mass AGO Webinar: Navigating the Changing Non-Profit Landscape
Tuesday August 26, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
This webinar hosted by the Attorney General Andrea Campbell will explore the evolving challenges faced by non-profit organizations under the new federal administration. It marks the first in a series hosted by the AGO's Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division. The series is designed to support non-profits as they navigate shifts in funding and policy. Learn more and register.
NEW! Launch of the Climate Resilience Playbook
Wednesday September 10, 12:00 - 1:00 pm
Join the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, and the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) for the official launch of the Climate Resilience Playbook—a new online resource offering planning guidance, implementation strategies, best practices, and case studies from across Massachusetts. The Playbook supports municipalities in strengthening climate resilience and centering the voices of those most affected. Learn more and register.
Development Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday September 10, 3:00 - 4:00 pm
See details under MLTC News, above. Joint Land Protection / Stewardship Quarterly Call
Thursday September 11, 3:00 - 4:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above.
September 2025 Conservation Partners Meeting Friday September 12, 10:00 am - 12:15 pm, in-person at MassWildlife and via Zoom
See details under MLTC News, above. ECCN Lunch & Learn: Spadefoot Toad Conservation with Mass Audubon
Monday September 15, 12:00 - 1:00 pm, via Zoom See details under MLTC News, above.
NEW! Berkshire Naturalist Course at OLLI Mondays (September 15 - October 27), 9:30 - 11:00 am. Hybrid, in-person locations TBD and via Zoom.
The Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) are hosting a six-session course on naturalist interpretation. Topics will include local geology, land use history, climate impacts, and identification of common flora and fauna. In-person hiking sessions will offer hands-on opportunities to apply what’s learned in the course. Learn more and register.
ECCN Lunch & Learn: Using GIS to Identify and Prioritize Land Protection Projects Thursday September 18, 12:00 - 1:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above. Branding 101: The Importance of Finding Your Why
Thursday September 18, 1:00 - 2:00 pm
Hosted by American Trails, this webinar will explore the deeper meaning of branding beyond catchy slogans and visually appealing logos. Participants will be guided through key branding fundamentals and hands-on exercises used by industry professionals to uncover the foundational "why" behind a brand. The goal: to help organizations build an authentic identity that resonates with their audience—one that people are eager to support, trust, and champion. Learn more and register.
NEW! Stormwater Workshop Series
Thursdays (September 25 - November 6), times vary. Hybrid, in-person at Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center, Worcester MA or via Zoom. Attend one, some, or all.
Hosted by the Massachusetts Rivers Alliance, this workshop series will explore strategies and funding opportunities for municipal stormwater management across Massachusetts.
The series will equip municipal stormwater managers and other stakeholders with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to meet regulatory requirements and achieve clean water goals. Learn more and register. Land Trust Finance Peer Networking Group Thursday September 25, 1:00 - 2:00 pm
See details under MLTC News, above. How to Find Potential Title Problems in a Proposed Acquisition Project
Wednesday October 15, 3:00 - 4:15 pm See details under MLTC News, above.
Small-Staffed Land Trusts Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday October 22, 12:00 - 1:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above. AVLT (All-Volunteer Land Trust) Quarterly Networking Call Wednesday October 22, 3:00 - 4:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above.
NEW! MACC Lunch and Learn: Healthy Soil Through Maximum Biodiversity Wednesday December 10, 12:00 - 1:00 pm
The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) is hosting a webinar on Landscape Interactions and their collaborative work with farmers and community gardeners to create free, scalable landscape designs that support native pollinators, improve soil health, and boost carbon sequestration. Attend to learn practical strategies to enhance biodiversity and resilience across all types of landscapes. Learn more and register.
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In-Person Events and Outings |
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Massachusetts State Gathering at Rally
Friday September 5, 6:30 - 7:30+ pm, The Great Room, Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower (1360 West Mall Drive) See details under MLTC News, above.
ECCN Fall Migration Bird Walk in Dartmouth Wednesday September 10, 3:00 - 5:00 pm, Dartmouth MA See details under MLTC News, above. September 2025 Conservation Partners Meeting Friday September 12, 10:00 am - 12:15 pm, in-person at MassWildlife and via Zoom See details under MLTC News, above.
NEW! 2025 Massachusetts Food System Forum: Submit a Workshop Proposal Workshop proposal deadline: Friday September 12
Forum date: November 21, time TBD, in-person, The College of Holy Cross, Worcester MA
The Massachusetts Food System Forum, hosted annually by the Massachusetts Food System Collaborative (MFSC), unites farmers, policymakers, businesses, and community advocates to advance sustainable agriculture, food equity, and local economic growth. The forum facilitates discussion, active learning, and collaboration to build a resilient food system supporting healthy communities and the environment across Massachusetts. To help shape this event, MFSC is inviting session proposals focused on topics from the Local Food Action Plan. Workshop Proposal Guidelines. Submit proposal. Register.
NEW! Berkshire Naturalist Course at OLLI
Mondays (September 15 - October 27), 9:30 - 11:00 am. Hybrid, in-person locations TBD and via Zoom. See details under eLearning & Webinars, above.
Northeastern Old Growth Conference Wednesday September 17 - Saturday September 20, times vary, in-person, Middlebury College, Ripton VT
This event will feature a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers who will share perspectives from the Pacific Northwest, the Midwest, and New England. The program includes a mix of presentations, interactive discussions, and field excursions, highlighting a broad range of voices and expertise from across the Northeast and beyond. Learn more and register.
ECCN Spadefoot Toad Monitoring Night with Mass Audubon Thursday September 18, 7:00 - 9:00 pm, in-person, East Falmouth MA See details under MLTC News, above. NEW! Trail Skills College 2025 Friday September 19 - Sunday September 21, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm, in-person, Noble View Outdoor Center, Russell MA
The Appalachian Mountain Club is hosting the First Annual Southern New England Trail Skills College, a collaborative event for the entire trails community. Open to both volunteers and professionals of all experience levels, the event offers opportunities to learn, connect, and grow within the field of trail stewardship. Learn more. Register.
Field Trip: Cold Brook-Eco Restoration Project Friday September 19, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Harwich MA See details under MLTC News, above.
NEW! Stormwater Workshop Series
Thursdays (September 25 - November 6), times vary. Hybrid, in-person at Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center, Worcester MA or via Zoom. Attend one, some, or all. See details under eLearning & Webinars, above. Field Trip: Nature-based Solutions in Devens Friday September 26, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Devens MA
See details under MLTC News, above. NEW! Dam Busters Community Engagement Workshop Friday September 26, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, in-person Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center, Worcester MA
The Massachusetts Rivers Alliance is hosting this workshop on building effective community engagement skills to support dam removal efforts. The event will feature a panel of experienced practitioners who have successfully led community engagement initiatives around dam removal. Participants will also take part in an interactive session simulating the engagement process, facilitated by Emily Vogler of the Rhode Island School of Design. Learn more and register.
NEW! 2025 Middleborough Town Forest Conference
Saturday October 4, time TBD, in-person, Middleborough High School, Middleborough MA
DCR’s Service Forestry Program hosts the annual Massachusetts Town Forest Conference to bring together foresters, planners, arborists, conservationists, land trusts, nonprofits, forest landowners, and others. This year’s theme is “Sustaining Our Landscapes: Farms, Forests, and Cranberry Bogs.” The conference will include a keynote discussion on the history of Middleborough and the Frederick Weston Memorial Forest. Register.
Land Trust / State Agency Retreat Wednesday October 8 (full day) - Thursday October 9 (half day) See details under MLTC News, above. NEW! Lobby For The Rivers Day Wednesday October 8, 9:30 am - 4:00 pm, in-person, the State House, Boston MA.
Join Mass Rivers and advocates at the 5th Annual Lobby for the Rivers Day at the State House. First-time participants and experienced advocates alike will come together to meet with legislators and advocate for rivers, climate action, and environmental priorities across Massachusetts. Learn more and register.
Save the Date! MACC’s 2025 Fall Conference Saturday October 25, time TBD, Devens Common Center, 31 Andrews Pkwy, Devens, MA Registration will open in the fall
The theme of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions' (MACC) annual Fall Conference, At Home with Nature: Balancing the Needs of Housing, Energy, and Environmental Protection, will explore the intersection of sustainable development and environmental stewardship, offering attendees insights into how communities can grow while preserving natural resources. Learn more.
2025 Regional Conservation Partnership (RCP) Network Gathering Thursday November 6, time TBD, in-person, UMass Amherst, Amherst MA
Hosted by the Highstead Foundation, this event brings together conservation practitioners, professionals, and allies to support and advance collaborative landscape conservation throughout the Northeast and beyond. The 2025 conference, titled A Home for Us All: Working Together for a Resilient Future, will focus on the vital intersection of housing, conservation, and justice. Learn more.
Save the Date! 2026 Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference Friday March 13 2026, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm, in-person at UMass Amherst |
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For more information on the following grants and more, please visit our Grants Database.
MassDEP Technical Assistance Grants Application deadline: Friday August 29
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is inviting proposals from community and municipal organizations to strengthen public involvement in the assessment and cleanup of oil and hazardous material disposal sites, including those in environmental justice (EJ) areas. Technical Assistance Grants (TAGs) will be awarded to selected groups to obtain independent expert advice, review site assessment and cleanup plans, and promote public engagement in the cleanup process. Learn more and apply.
NEW! Two For The Trails Grant Program
Application deadline: Thursday September 4, 9:00 pm
Athletic Brewing Co. is offering grants, ranging from $500 to $50,000, to nonprofit organizations dedicated to trail maintenance, waterway protection, urban greenspace, and environmental conservation. These grants support projects that promote equitable access to the outdoors by funding efforts focused on environmental preservation and restoration. Learn more and apply.
NEW! Seaport Economic Council Grant Program
Application deadline: Wednesday September 10, 11:59 pm
The Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) is awarding capital grants to support infrastructure projects that promote economic mobility and prosperity in Massachusetts’ seaports and coastal communities. Eligible applicants—including coastal municipalities, regional planning agencies—can apply for funding to advance projects that foster economic development, enhance environmental sustainability, and improve public access. Learn more and apply.
NEW! Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) Program: Applications Open Application deadline: Tuesday September 30
Massachusetts farmers are invited to apply for the Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) Program. This program helps protect farmland from development by placing permanent restrictions, while providing landowners with payment that bridges the gap between market and farmland values. Eligible farms must be at least 5 acres, actively farmed, and meet minimum sales requirements. Email Ron Hall at ronald.hall@mass.gov or Kathleen Doherty at kdoherty@farmland.org with questions. Learn more and apply.
AgEnhancement Grants Application deadline: Monday December 1
Farm Credit East and CoBank are awarding grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 to support programs intended to assist all-size farms, promote diversity, and create opportunities for new entrants into agriculture. Applicants who demonstrate how their program, project, activity, or event will create a lasting positive impact on the agriculture, forest products, or commercial fishing industries within the eight-state Northeast region are eligible. Learn more and apply.
Land Conservation Program Revolving Loan Fund Rolling, inquire to become pre-approved
The National Park Foundation (NPF) Revolving Loan Fund provides bridge loans to financially stable conservation organizations to facilitate land acquisitions for conservation or other National Park Service (NPS) purposes. Projects will be considered that require a loan of $1,000,000 or less for a nonprofit partner to acquire a vulnerable property from a willing seller. Interested applicants should contact lands@nationalparks.org to inquire whether the project is a good match for the NPF loan program. Once pre-approved, applicants will receive instructions via email on how to formally submit an application.
Agricultural Conservation Easement Grants Applications accepted on a rolling basis
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications year-round for ACEP Agricultural Land Easements (ACEP-ALE) and Wetland Reserve Easements (ACEP-WRE). The current ACEP priorities remain unchanged from the previous fiscal year and are available in all states. Depending on the location, NRCS may also have state-specific priorities. For more information, email Jasper Cowley at Jasper.Cowley@usda.gov. Learn more and apply.
Solar Moonshot Program
This program helps non-profits afford the switch to clean energy. Grant priority is given to solar projects that have additional funding sources and community support. Grants are typically awarded up to $25,000, with amounts dependent on various factors. The program is managed by Hammond Climate Solutions Foundation. Learn more and apply.
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Resources and Opportunities |
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NEW! EEA’s Grants Management System (GMS)
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) has launched a new, comprehensive Grants Management System (GMS) to streamline the process of searching for, applying to, and managing state environmental grants. Users are required to create a MyMassGov login, and are encouraged to set up their profile early to become familiar with the platform. Only authorized individuals formally affiliated with the applicant organization may submit applications, as the system does not support submissions from outside consultants or partner organizations. Learn more.
NEW! Strengthening Land Trusts Through Smart Fundraising: Webinar Recordings
The Connecticut Conservation Council hosted a four-part webinar series aimed to help land trust board members and staff develop strong, sustainable fundraising programs. The sessions covered donor behavior, building a reliable donor base, prospect research, and major gift cultivation. The series concluded with an in-depth look at capital campaigns as a long-term strategy for funding land acquisition and reducing reliance on urgent appeals. Watch recordings.
NEW! Using Runnels to Advance Salt Marsh Restoration: Final Report
The Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (NE CASC) released a final report showing that shallow drainage channels, or runnels, are a low-cost, effective strategy to combat salt marsh drowning from sea-level rise and past hydrological changes. Runnels restore tidal flow, drain excess water, support vegetation regrowth, and enhance nitrogen removal—helping marshes adapt to changing conditions. Read the report.
NEW! Designing Wabanaki Adaptive Capacity for Climate Change: Final Report
The Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (NE CASC) released a final report on a collaborative effort to strengthen the Wabanaki Nations’ capacity to adapt to climate change through culturally grounded, community-led strategies. Led by Darren Ranco from the University of Maine, the project partnered with Wabanaki people to build a regional tribal network and develop a Wabanaki climate adaptation workbook. By integrating Indigenous knowledge with scientific research, the work offers a model for climate resilience rooted in tradition, sovereignty, and sustainability. Read the report.
NEW! Opportunity to Join the Conservationist Pesticide Advisory Council
Application deadline: Friday September 26
The Conservationist Pesticide Advisory Council has recently had a vacancy and is seeking a qualified individual to fill the open seat. The Advisory Council offers guidance to the Department of Agricultural Resources and the Pesticide Board on policies and regulations concerning pesticide use and safety. Learn more. Apply.
NEW! Massachusetts Zoning Atlas
John Infranca (Suffolk University Law School) and Sara Bronin (National Zoning Atlas) unveil the Massachusetts Zoning Atlas—the first comprehensive visualization of zoning across the state's 352 jurisdictions. Drawing from over 46,000 pages of zoning codes and covering more than 5,500 districts, the interactive map allows users to easily compare zoning regulations statewide.
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