eNews
The Newsletter of the Massachusetts Land Conservation Community |
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| March 18 2025, Volume 23, Number 3 |
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Land owned by Hale Education, Inc. Over 1,100 Acres to be Preserved in Dover and Westwood
To preserve one of the largest privately-owned tracts of land in the Boston metro area, the Trustees of Reservations will acquire a conservation restriction on 970 acres of land owned by Hale Education, Inc. Simultaneously, The Trustees will partner with Dover Land Conservation Trust (DLCT) to purchase 138 acres from Hale Education, to be owned by The Trustees subject to a conservation restriction held by DLCT. The project, which was funded in part by a Conservation Partnership Grant from EEA, is expected to close by July 2025. The project received deep community support from individual donors and local organizations, including Westwood Land Trust. Hale Education is a nonprofit that provides children and families from Greater Boston with access to over 15 miles of trails, four ponds, woodlands, and meadows. Hale’s land abuts two properties owned by The Trustees – the 109-acre Powisset Farm and the 595-acre Noanet Woodlands, as well as lands protected by DLCT and the towns of Dover and Westwood. When this project is complete, a network of trails through more than 2,000 acres of conservation land will be forever protected for public benefit. Learn more.
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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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| I enjoyed crystal clear skies on a late winter walk at Orleans Conservation Trust's Henson's Cove Conservation Area.
#OurMassLandTrusts |
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Register by 10 am on Thursday March 20! 2025 Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference
Friday March 21, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm, in-person at UMass Amherst
With record attendance and a keynote by Congressman Jim McGovern on The State of the Environment under a new Administration & Congress, we’re excited that the 2025 Conference is upon us! We’ve arranged an overflow room for the afternoon plenary to accommodate those who were waitlisted, so registration is open again, until 10 AM Thursday. See program details and registration info here.
The Big Night Amphibian Migration: Talk & Networking
Thursday March 20, 4:00 - 5:30 pm, in-person at Hitchcock Center for The Environment, 845 West St., Amherst MA
Join the Early Conservation Career Network for an evening of learning and networking before the annual Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference. Jeff Mazur, Environmental Educator for the Hitchcock Center for the Environment, will discuss Big Night amphibian migration and the natural history of the yellow-spotted salamander. Afterward, enjoy a short trail walk before gathering at Treehouse Brewing Company (optional, 6:00 - 7:30 pm) to socialize, dine, and enjoy beverages. Learn more and register.
Best Practices for Working with Appraisers: A Panel Discussion Tuesday April 8, 12:00 - 1:15 pm, via Zoom
This session is designed for land trust staff and board members involved in land protection. It will feature insights from experienced land protection practitioners, Land Trust Alliance staff, and seasoned appraisers on how to develop effective relationships with appraisers and improve conservation outcomes. There will be plenty of time for Q&A. Co-hosted by the Land Trust Alliance, Connecticut Land Conservation Council, and the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition. Register.
Organizational Assessments & Implementation Grants: Information Session Wednesday April 9, 1:00 - 2:00 pm, via Zoom
Join the Land Trust Alliance and MLTC to learn how your land trust can apply for a comprehensive organizational development package that includes an organizational assessment tailored to your specific needs and interests, a customized list of priority action items, and eligibility for an Implementation Grant to put these initiatives into action. Participants will also receive ongoing support through quarterly coaching calls. The application period is April 14 – May 16, 2025. Join the info session to learn more about the types of assessments available, the application process, and requirements to participate, with time for Q&A. Learn more. Register.
Field Trip: Cuttyhunk Conservation Land Stewardship Friday May 16, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm, in-person on Cuttyhunk Island
Between 2018-2022, the Buzzards Bay Coalition led an effort that brought together federal, state and local agencies and hundreds of individual donors to raise $6.2 million to purchase 68-acres of rare island habitats to prevent resort development and ensure public access. That bold action then inspired a private landowner gift of a 230-acre conservation restriction, leading to an island that is now nearly 70% conserved. On this trip, we will cruise across the Bay to enjoy a hiking tour of the island’s trails and vistas and learn about the Coalition’s active grassland and shorebird management projects. Attendees will gather at the ferry which departs from New Bedford at 8:30, travel together to and from the island, returning at 4 p.m. Note that Parking & ferry fees are the responsibility of each attendee. Registrants must purchase their own ferry ticket prior to the day of the field trip. The cost for a round-trip ticket is $62 and can be purchased at https://cuttyhunkferryco.com/tickets/. Learn more. Register.
Development Staff Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday May 21, 1:00 - 2:00 pm, via Zoom
The focus of this quarter's call will be on Recruiting, Engaging, and Retaining Volunteers for development and fundraising purposes. Depending on the interests of participants, the discussion may be broadened to include general volunteers. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together program, this call will not be recorded. Register.
Land Protection Staff Topical Networking Wednesday May 21, 2:00 - 3:00 pm, via Zoom
The topic for this quarter's call will be GIS, with discussion of what programs you use, sharing data & files, file naming conventions, remote access, templates for keeping MassGIS data up to date, staffing a GIS person, and likely more. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series, this call will not be recorded. Register.
Field Trip: Cooper Hill: Landscape-scale Conservation via Alliance Building Saturday May 31, 1:30 - 3:00 pm, in-person, Sheffield MA
This field trip complements a Conference workshop on the Cooper Hill Conservation Project, which will protect over 1,000 acres in the towns of Sheffield, MA and Salisbury, CT. Walk the fields and trails - some still being cut - and enjoy the vistas while listening to key project leads describe how the Cooper Hill Conservation Alliance quickly formed to work with the farmers who farmed a large portion of this land for over two decades. Learn how this complex project was made possible not only through multiple conservation tools but, importantly, through the trust and collaboration among all the partners. Learn more. Register.
Series: Fostering Land Trust Engagement in Urban Communities Tuesdays June 3, 10, 17, and 24, 3:00 - 4:30 pm, via Zoom
This 4-part Zoom series, co-sponsored by MLTC and The Trustees, is intended for staff and board members from land trusts interested in initiating or expanding work in urban/developed parts of their service areas. Covers five topic areas, lots of participant interaction and time for questions, and includes an associated field trip in July. The speakers, from Massachusetts land trusts, hope to demonstrate that with the right motivation and preparation, any sized land trust can embark on similar work. Multiple representatives from your organization can attend for one single registration fee. Learn more. Register.
Field Trip: Bright Water Bog: Transitioning a Private Trail Network into a Public Gem Friday June 13, 10:30 am - 1:30 pm, in-person, Shutesbury MA
When a truly “special” landscape comes along, it can feel like both an outstanding opportunity and a daunting challenge. In 2021, such a place was gifted to Kestrel by an artist and psychiatrist who spent 40 years stewarding 150 acres, establishing recreational trails and installing sculptures near his house. Used mostly by neighbors, the trail experience included artwork, poetry, a 900-foot traverse of a gorgeous bog, and a ledge ascent to a view toward Lake Wyola. Kestrel’s 10-year journey of transitioning the site from a private wonderland to a welcoming public landscape integrated all our teams: conservation, stewardship, fundraising, and community engagement. Come explore this special place with our leadership staff to discuss the “how’s” of converting private trails to public use while retaining the distinctive personal imprint that makes a place feel exceptional. Learn more. Register.
June 2025 Conservation Partners Meeting
Friday June 20, 10:00 am - 12:15 pm, in-person at Brewster's Woods Wildlife Sanctuary, Concord 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. A portion of this meeting will serve as MLTC’s Annual Meeting, with land trust members eligible to vote on a Board of Trustees slate. Convened by MLTC's Partner Engagement Committee: Kathy Orlando, Chair, and Olivia Lukacic, Vice-Chair. Register (only if attending via Zoom).
Field Trip: Pawtucket Farm: An Urban Collaboration Success Friday July 18, 12:00 - 2:00 pm, in-person, Lowell MA
This tour will visit the Pawtucket Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, a collaboration between Lowell Parks & Conservation, Mass Audubon, and Mill City Grows. Participants will walk the 22-acre former Christmas tree farm and see the implementation of community-based visioning and planning, including a recently completed All Persons Trail and an outdoor classroom under construction. Learn more. Register.
Field Trip: Simons Park: Transforming Landscapes to Resilient Ecosystems Friday July 25, 10:00 - 11:30 am, in-person, Wellesley MA
This field trip complements the Conference workshop entitled "Habit to Habitat: Transforming Landscapes to Resilient Ecosystems, from Conception to Maintenance". Join Evan Abramson, Principal of Landscape Interactions, and Brandon Schmitt, Director of Wellesley's Natural Resources Commission, to witness the results of the process they went through to transform Simons Park into a resilient ecosystem. Learn more. Register.
Nominations Open for MLTC’s Board and Committees
Are you interested in being a volunteer leader working to advance land conservation across Massachusetts? MLTC is seeking nominations for volunteers to serve on its Board of Trustees, or as non-governing members of its Public Policy, Finance, Development, or Governance Committees. We’re looking for folks with time and energy to help advance MLTC’s Strategic Plan. Board members are elected to 3-year terms at MLTC’s annual meeting each June. Committee members can join at any point during the year, and are asked to make a one-year commitment. If you are interested in nominating yourself or others, please reach out to Robb Johnson at robb@massland.org.
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Ask Your State Legislators to Support Land Conservation
Please consider reaching out to your state legislators to ask them to co-sponsor MLTC's highest priority bills for the current legislative session: -
The Nature for All Bill (H.901/S.597, Rep Blais, Rep. Montaño & Sen. Feeney)
This bill would dedicate a portion of the existing state sales tax for conservation, restoration and improvement of lands and waters to benefit nature and people. See this fact sheet to learn more about the bill and its growing list of supporters. - An Act increasing the conservation land tax credit (S.2083/H.3147, Sen. Tarr and Rep. Jones)
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 their environmentally significant properties. For more information, see this fact sheet and WBUR coverage from Martha Bebinger on the importance of expanding the tax credit.
Find your legislators here, and see this message template that you are welcome to use or personalize.
State Reopens Comments on Open Space Act Regulations
On February 28, 2025, EEA announced that it was reopening public comment on the draft regulations to implement An Act Preserving Open Space in the Commonwealth (formerly referred to as PLPA), which took effect in February 2023. Though the draft regulations have not changed since the original comment period closed in mid-January, the state is interested in receiving additional comment on public notice requirements and methods for evaluating the natural resource value of lands impacted under this law. Comments must be submitted by 5:00 pm on March 26, 2025. EEA encourages electronic submission of written comments to Michael.gendron2@mass.gov; please refer to 301 CMR 52 in the subject line. EEA will hold a virtual public hearing on the regulations at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, via Zoom. Registration is required to obtain access to the virtual hearing room. Register here. During the initial comment period, MLTC coordinated this group sign-on letter. In total, EEA received over 430 pages of public comment by the original deadline.
State Auditor Releases Report on PILOT Payments
On January 24, 2025, the State Auditor’s Office and the Division of Local Mandates released Pursuing Equitable State-Owned Land Reimbursements for Municipalities, a report analyzing trends in payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) to the 297 municipalities that together host over 705,000 acres of state-owned land. The PILOT program partially reimburses municipalities for property tax revenue they forgo on state land within their borders – including the 92% of state land that is protected, such as parks, forests, beaches, and wildlife management areas. The report highlights how the formula used to calculate PILOT payments (which applies a factor related to market value changes in a municipality’s taxable properties) results in reimbursements that can vary widely – ranging from $5 to $28,546 per acre in FY24. Municipalities hosting large swaths of protected state-owned land essential to the state’s climate goals, particularly those in Central and Western Massachusetts, receive some of the lowest PILOT reimbursements per acre. The report recommends providing supplemental funding to recognize the nonmarket value of protected lands. In addition, it recommends safeguards to provide some certainty in PILOT payments from year to year for municipal budgetary planning. State Auditor Diana DiZoglio is sponsoring a bill, H.4 - An Act to reform payments in lieu of taxes for state-owned land, that, if passed, would address some of the report’s recommendations.
DOGE Cuts Hit Federal Partners in Massachusetts
The Trump Administration’s efforts to shrink the size of the federal government have resulted in the loss of federal employees in many of the federal agencies that are key partners in land conservation. For example, in February approximately 1000 employees were laid off across the National Park Service. While litigation is pending to reverse some of the cuts, impacts on programs and services are already in evidence. The Administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has released a list of office leases that will be terminated. According to the Associated Press, offices to be closed by June 30 or September 30 include the Natural Resources Conservation Service office in Amherst, the US Fish and Wildlife Service in Hadley, and the US Geological Service office in Northborough.
Uncertainty re: Federal Funding and Executive Orders
In this period of on-going uncertainty, MLTC will do our best to update this resource page on our website to help federal grantees and others understand and respond to the rapidly evolving impact of federal actions. It includes a link to this helpful page created by the Land Trust Alliance.
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State Awards Grants to Ecological Restoration Projects
On March 17th, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $2.1 million in grants to support 17 river and wetland restoration projects across Massachusetts. Awarded through the Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Ecological Restoration, these projects will help strengthen climate resilience, reduce flood risks, improve water quality, and restore wildlife habitat. Awards included $667,000 to East Quabbin Land Trust for removal of the Wheelwright Pond Dam in Hardwick, Barre and New Braintree; $400,000 to The Nature Conservancy for removal of the Beck Pond Dam in Mount Washington; $150,000 to Buzzards Bay Coalition for adaptive management, monitoring and invasive plant management at the recently completed Mattapoisett Bogs Restoration in Mattapoisett; and $18,000 to Nantucket Conservation Foundation for post-construction monitoring for the Windswept Cranberry Bog Restoration in Nantucket. Read more.
Critical and Significant Drought Conditions Persist in Massachusetts
After nearly seven months of below-normal precipitation, on March 7th EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared that the Connecticut River Valley has joined Central and Northeast Massachusetts in Level 3 - Critical Drought status; the rest of the state is at Level 2 - Significant Drought status. Criteria for drought levels are outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan. Most of the state is 8-13 inches below normal precipitation, with the Cape and Islands at a 5-8 inch deficit. While the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority (MWRA) water supply system is unaffected, private wells and other water sources in river basins are impacted. Learn more.
$1.3 Million Awarded to Combat Rising Temperatures in EJ Communities
The Healey-Driscoll Administration awarded over $1.3 million in grants through the Cooling Corridors program, which focuses on planting trees along popular walking routes and in environmental justice (EJ) neighborhoods across Massachusetts. The program prioritizes neighborhoods that experience high summer temperatures. Establishing tree cover, including small micro-forests, can significantly mitigate heat-related health risks, particularly for EJ populations that are more vulnerable to extreme heat. Funding will support thirteen municipalities and one nonprofit organization in combating the rising heat driven by climate change. Learn more.
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NEW! Compassionate Leadership in Times of Financial Crisis Wednesday March 19, 2:00 - 3:30 pm
Hosted by the Land Trust Alliance, join Breanna Horsey, Executive Director of the Sustainable Iowa Land Trust, and Kellie Gottner, HR & Client Experience Officer at Connectify, as they share effective strategies for managing a downsizing. Drawing on their recent experiences, Breanna and Kellie will explore how organizations can implement a reduction in force while maintaining focus on their mission and ensuring the well-being of the people impacted. Free to Land Trust Alliance members. Learn more and register.
Food & Farming: How Farming Impacts Our Water, Wildlife, Climate, Health & Economy
Thursdays (March 20 - March 27), 12:00 - 1:30 pm or 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Hosted by Biodiversity for a Livable Climate, this online course examines the impact of farming on freshwater resources, wildlife, climate change, public health, and the economy. The goal of Food & Farming is to critically assess and challenge unsustainable agricultural practices, while exploring strategies for adopting more sustainable farming methods. Participants have the option to register for a single session. Learn more. Register.
Spring 2025 Speaker Series on Data-Driven Urban Forestry Tuesdays (March 25 - April 8), 10:30 - 11:30 am
In this free seminar series hosted by the Hixon Center, urban forestry experts will share how they leverage data to address management challenges and measure the efficacy of different solutions. Drawing from diverse experience across government, research, and nonprofit sectors, the speakers will offer valuable insights to guide decision-making for more sustainable, equitable, and climate-resilient cities. Participants have the option to register for a single session. Learn more. Register.
Protecting Your Legacy Through Conservation-based Estate Planning Tuesdays March 25 and April 22, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
This free series hosted by UMass Extension’s MassWoods program explores how to shape the future of your land and create a conservation-focused estate plan that aligns with your personal and financial goals. Download Protecting Your Legacy for more insights into conservation-based estate planning. Participants have the option to register for a single session. Learn more and register.
NEW! Common Employer Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Thursday April 3, 1:00 pm
Presented by Elizabeth S. Khan, Esq., Employment Law Attorney at the Law Firm of Elizabeth S. Reinhardt & Associates, LLC in Concord, MA, this webinar will address common employment law challenges, including wage and hour violations, Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML), independent contractor regulations, and more. Learn more and register.
Best Practices for Working with Appraisers: A Panel Discussion Tuesday April 8, 12:00 - 1:15 pm, via Zoom See details under MLTC News, above. Organizational Assessments & Implementation Grants: Virtual Information Session Wednesday April 9, 1:00 - 2:00 pm, via Zoom See details under MLTC News, above.
Statewide Local Working Group Meeting Tuesday April 15, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Hosted by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Districts (MACD), this event offers participants an opportunity to actively shape the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service programs and funding allocations, while fostering partnerships with other agricultural producers and conservation advocates. Email Mariana Lachiusa at Mariana.LachiusaMACD@gmail.com for more information. Learn more. Register.
NEW! Navigating DEI Trends Post-Executive Orders Wednesday April 16, 2:00 pm
Shavon Andrews, Team Lead & Senior HR Consultant, and Lexi Kantor, Senior HR Consultant at Insource Services, will share the latest insights and best practices for organizational leaders and HR professionals in light of recent executive orders on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how these orders impact DEI trends and learn how to adjust their strategies to meet evolving legal, social, and organizational expectations. Learn more and register.
Acquisition and Stewardship Peer Group for Land Trusts Application deadline: Tuesday April 22 Every three weeks from Tuesday May 6 until November 2026, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
This peer learning experience hosted by the Land Trust Alliance is tailored for land trust professionals focused on the acquisition, stewardship and management of land and conservation easements. This 18 month-program will offer a variety of opportunities to engage with others—through training sessions, networking events, and roundtable discussions that cover different facets of acquisition and stewardship. Fill out an online application to apply, estimated to take five to ten minutes. Open to staff or board members of Land Trust Alliance members. Learn more. Apply.
NEW! Native Plant Trust Spring Symposium
Saturday May 3, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Attend the Native Plant Trust's Virtual Spring Symposium and learn from experts in ecological horticulture, landscape design, sustainable gardening, and more. Gain insights to apply in your own garden, whether large or small. The sessions are designed to cover a wide range of ecological gardening topics, offering attendees a comprehensive approach to integrating sustainable practices into their growing spaces. Learn more. Register.
Development Staff Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday May 21, 1:00 - 2:00 pm, via Zoom See details under MLTC News, above. Land Protection Staff Topical Networking
Wednesday May 21, 2:00 - 3:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above.
Series: Fostering Land Trust Engagement in Urban Communities Tuesdays June 3, 10, 17, and 24, 3:00 - 4:30 pm, via Zoom See details under MLTC News, above.
June 2025 Conservation Partners Meeting Friday June 20, 10:00 am - 12:15 pm, hybrid
See details under MLTC News, above. Conservation Easements: Legal Principles, Valuation, and Applications
Self-paced course
In this self-paced course developed by the Lincoln Land Institute of Land Policy, participants will explore principles, applications, controversies, and broader implications of easements. The modules will cover case studies, legal frameworks, valuation techniques, and federal tax provisions related to this land policy instrument. Learn more.
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In-Person Events and Outings |
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The Big Night Amphibian Migration: Talk & Networking
Thursday March 20, 4:00 - 5:30 pm, in-person at Hitchcock Center for The Environment, 845 West St., Amherst MA See details under MLTC News, above.
2025 Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference Friday March 21, in-person at UMass Amherst, Amherst MA See details under MLTC News, above. Build a Birdhouse Workshop Saturday March 29, 12:30 - 3:30 pm, Wildlands Trust’s Stewardship Training Center, 549 Mast Rd, Plymouth MA
Join Wildlands Trust and Manomet Conservation Sciences for a hands-on workshop to learn carpentry skills while building birdhouses for local wildlife in Southeast MA. Participants will be guided through the process of constructing homes designed for tree swallows and bluebirds. Learn more and register. Mainstreaming Nature Based Solutions Conference Thursday May 1, time TBD, Clark University, Worcester MA
The theme for the 2025 Massachusetts Ecosystem Climate Adaptation Network (Mass ECAN) Conference is Mainstreaming Nature-Based Solutions. The conference will offer networking opportunities and sessions centered on this theme with a focus on equitable community engagement, policy, permitting, and examples from Expert Work Groups and Ambassador Award recipients. Learn more. Register.
Field Trip: Cuttyhunk Conservation Land Stewardship Friday May 16, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm, in-person on Cuttyhunk See details under MLTC News, above. NEW! Basic Chainsaw Training for Trails Saturday May 31 and Sunday June 1, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Wildlands Stewardship Training Center, Plymouth MA
Wildlands Trust is hosting this training to cover essential chainsaw safety, operation, and equipment maintenance. Participants will acquire foundational skills for managing tree-related challenges on trails. Day one will focus on Game of Logging Level 1, while day two will emphasize techniques for storm damage cleanup. Learn more and register.
Field Trip: Cooper Hill: Landscape-scale Conservation via Alliance Building
Saturday May 31, 1:30 - 3:00 pm, in-person, Sheffield MA (West/Berkshires) See details under MLTC News, above.
NEW! Seasonal Land Steward Training Monday June 2 and Tuesday June 3, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Wildlands Stewardship Training Center, Plymouth MA
Stewardship professionals from Wildlands Trust, Buzzards Bay Coalition, Town of Plymouth Natural Resources Department and Barnstable Land Trust are collaborating to present an introductory training program for seasonal land stewards. Learn more and register. Field Trip: Bright Water Bog: Transitioning a Private Trail Network into a Public Gem
Friday June 13, 10:30 am - 1:30 pm, in-person, Shutesbury MA (CT River Valley) See details under MLTC News, above.
June 2025 Conservation Partners Meeting Friday June 20, 10:00 am - 12:15 pm, hybrid See details under MLTC News, above. Field Trip: Pawtucket Farm: An Urban Collaboration Success Friday July 18, 12:00 - 2:00 pm, in-person, Lowell (North) See details under MLTC News, above. Field Trip: Simons Park: Transforming Landscapes to Resilient Ecosystems Friday July 25, 10:00 - 11:30 am, in-person, Wellesley MA (Boston area) See details under MLTC News, above. |
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For more information on the following grants and more, please visit our Grants Database.
NEW! Incubator Grants Application deadline: Friday March 21
Village and Wilderness has launched these grants to support community-based organizations and local agencies in developing new "microhabitat programs." These typically multi-year, multi-site initiatives focus on restoring ecosystem function in fragmented landscapes, benefiting people, biodiversity, or both. Such landscapes may include watersheds with urban, suburban, industrial, and agricultural land uses, or any area where small, restored spaces can create a significant impact. Learn more and apply.
Farmland Partnership Program
Info session: Monday March 31, 10:00 - 11:30 am. Register. Application deadline: Monday May 19, 5:00 pm
Offered by The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) these grants will support the implementation of the Massachusetts Farmland Action Plan by funding networks dedicated to protecting farmland, enhancing farm viability, and ensuring access to farmland. The program prioritizes allocating funds to these networks rather than directly to individual farmers. All proposed activities must be clearly tied to a specific task(s) in the Farmland Action Plan Implementation Matrix. Learn more and apply.
Landscape Partnership Grants Application deadline: Thursday April 3, 3:00 pm
These grants support efforts to protect large areas of conservation land. Maximum grant award is $1.25 million. Awarded applicants must document the use of funds or contributions from other sources comprising at least 50% of total project cost. Nonprofits and local, state and federal government agencies can use this grant to work together to protect properties that meet the minimum acreage required, which varies by county. Learn more and apply.
NEW! FY26 Municipality Vulnerability Program (MVP) Action Grants
Application deadline: Friday April 4, 2:00 pm
These grants provide support for communities in Massachusetts to identify climate hazards, assess vulnerabilities, and develop action plans to improve resilience to climate change. Projects must incorporate climate data and projections. Preference will be given to proposals that focus on nature-based solutions, promote equity, and include strong community engagement plans. Applicants may request up to $3 million in funding (regional proposals are eligible for up to $5 million), with a required 10% match of the total project cost (see RFR for exceptions). Learn more. Apply.
Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Electric Solicitation Grant Application deadline: Monday April 7, 5:00 pm The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is awarding $3.66 million in funding for projects focused on reducing diesel emissions from vehicles and equipment. Learn more and apply. NEW! 2025 National Trails Day Micro-Grants
Application deadline: Friday April 11
The American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day Micro-Grant Program seeks to boost participation from underrepresented communities in the 33rd annual National Trails Day on June 7, 2025. Three groups or events will each receive $1,500 to support event costs. Funds can be used for transportation, materials, stewardship supplies, gear, food, advertising, etc. Events should feature outdoor recreation or trail service projects, with grassroots advocacy activities encouraged. Learn more and apply.
NEW! Watershed Outreach and Education Grants
Application deadline: Friday April 11
These grants, launched by the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program (NBEP), support projects that promote watershed outreach and education to advance NBEP's vision of clean water and habitats to sustain all who live, work, and play in the Narragansett Bay Region. Projects should aim to engage the community in addressing critical environmental challenges in Narragansett Bay, Little Narragansett Bay, the Rhode Island Coastal Ponds, and their surrounding watersheds. Learn more and apply.
Land Conservation Assistance Grants Application deadline: Friday April 11
This state grant program offers funding to assist with completing land protection projects, including preparing grant applications, completing land transaction tasks, developing or updating a municipal Open Space and Recreation Plan, or planning for the development or renovation of a park. Learn more and apply.
Farm-Pass: Farm Transfer Planning Assistance Program
Application deadline: rolling, but must be received by Tuesday April 15th for a June start date. Note: Please do not apply through CommBuys, but click “file attachments” to get the application. Completed applications must be mailed to MDAR.
MDAR’s new Farm-Pass program will provide direct assistance to help Massachusetts farm owners pass their farm on to the next generation. This service is targeted to owners who have already identified a successor – either within the family or not – who is interested in owning and managing a commercial farm business on the farm property in the near future. This is a year-long, no-cost opportunity for farm owners, family members, and the identified successor to work one-on-one with an experienced, dedicated planner to create a customized farm transfer plan. Learn more and apply. Email Melissa Adams at Melissa.L.Adams@mass.gov or Laura Barley at Laura.Barley@mass.gov with questions.
Transformational Habitat Restoration and Coastal Resilience Grants Application deadline: Wednesday April 16, 11:59 pm
The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is offering up to $100 million in funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support projects aimed at recovering threatened and endangered species, as well as protecting coastal communities and ecosystems from the effects of climate change. Learn more and apply.
NEW! LAND and PARC Grant Programs
Virtual workshop, Wednesday May 7, 2:00 pm, see details below In-person workshop, Thursday May 8, 11:00 am, see details below
Application deadline: Tuesday July 8, 3:00 pm
The Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs' Division of Conservation Services is seeking applications to the FY 2026 LAND and PARC Grant Programs. The LAND Grant Program is for municipal conservation commissions looking to protect conservation land. The PARC Grant Program is for municipalities looking to acquire parkland, renovate an existing park, or develop a new park. DCS will hold two workshops for the PARC and LAND grants. It is strongly recommended that people attend the in-person workshop, which will be held on May 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at DFW Field Headquarters in Westborough. A second workshop will be held on Teams May 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. Please email Melissa Cryan at melissa.cryan@mass.gov to RSVP for either session if you are interested in applying for a PARC grant. Please email Vanessa Farny at vanessa.farny@mass.gov to RSVP for either session if you are interested in applying for a LAND grant.
Coastal Habitat Restoration and Resilience Grants for Tribes and Underserved Communities Application deadline: Monday May 12, 11:59 pm
The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is offering up to $20 million in funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support projects that will advance the coastal habitat restoration and climate resilience priorities of tribes and underserved communities. Learn more and apply.
NEW! Conservation Partnership Grant Program
Application Deadline: Friday July 11, 3:00 pm
The Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs' Division of Conservation Services is seeking applications to the FY 2026 Conservation Partnership Grant Program. Conservation Partnership grants are for 501(c)(3) organizations looking for assistance in acquiring land in fee or a conservation restriction, as well as assistance with due diligence costs associated with gifts. For this grant round, the maximum award amount has been increased to $425,000. Questions on the grant program can be directed to Melissa Cryan at melissa.cryan@mass.gov. Learn more and apply.
Land Conservation Program Revolving Loan Fund rolling, invitation only
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.
Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area Partnership Grants Applications accepted on a rolling basis until funding is exhausted
This program serves as a catalyst for new, creative programs and projects within 45 communities of the Heritage Area. Reimbursable matching grants are offered in support of the goals and objectives outlined in the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area Management Plan, summarized as: Inclusive Storytelling; Education, Interpretation & Curation; Community Planning & Resource Conservation; Historic Preservation; and Regional Cultural Events. Funding ranges from $1,000 to $7,500. Discussion of your proposal with a grant specialist before applying is highly recommended. Learn more here and here.
The Coldwater Land Conservancy Fund
Applications accepted on a rolling basis; an inquiry must be submitted 60 days prior to submitting full proposal
The Coldwater Land Conservancy Fund is a matching grant program administered by the National Office of Trout Unlimited (TU) along with the Land Conservancy Work Group. It provides grants for land protection projects that result in conservation easements or land trust or agency acquisition of important properties that protect salmon habitat. Funds will be awarded to TU Chapters and Councils in partnership with land trusts and conservation agencies. Applicants should contact the Land Conservancy Fund committee at landconservancy@tu.org 60 days prior to submitting an application. Learn more.
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! Massachusetts Nonprofits Federal Impacts Survey
Deadline: Friday March 21
The Massachusetts Nonprofit Network (MNN), in partnership with the Boston Foundation and MassINC Polling Group, is surveying Massachusetts nonprofits on the impact of the new federal administration. All responses will be anonymous and used for analysis to help MNN, policymakers, and funders provide resources, advocacy, and support for nonprofits to meet community needs. Take the survey. Save the date: A hybrid forum to discuss the survey results will take place on Monday May 5 at the Boston Foundation's Edgerley Center for Civic Leadership.
Best Practices When Engaging Appraisers
The Land Trust Alliance has published a checklist emphasizing that accurate and timely appraisals by qualified professionals are essential for land conservation transactions. This checklist serves as a guide for land trust practitioners on how to effectively collaborate with appraisers on conservation projects and provide the necessary information to ensure a successful process. View the checklist. The Land Trust Alliance, Connecticut Land Conservation Council and the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition are hosting a webinar on this topic on Tuesday April 8 (See details under MLTC News, above.)
NEW! EEA’s Grants Management System
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs recently launched their new Grants Management System to simplify the grant application process for municipalities, nonprofits and businesses. With an easy-to-use portal, applicants can find and manage grants all in one place. Share your Input on Forest Reserves
The Healey-Driscoll Administration has identified the ambitious goal of designating 300,000 acres of forest reserves across Massachusetts by 2030. In support of this goal, EEA is seeking to understand how non-profit, municipal and private forest owners manage their lands, and learn more about how they might support forest owners seeking to implement passive management
strategies. If you haven't already submitted a response, please consider assisting the EEA in gaining a better understanding of your forested lands by completing the survey. NEW! Woodland and Watershed Regeneration Program
The Woodland and Watershed Regeneration Program is an exciting new pilot initiative from the Massachusetts Forest Stewardship Program (MFSP). It’s designed to support forest regeneration, improve water quality, and enhance wildlife habitat across Massachusetts. Open to all municipalities and private landowners with a Forest Stewardship Management Plan, this program offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the restoration and resilience of our natural resources. For more information, how to apply, and seedling distribution details, contact Michael Downey at michael.downey@mass.gov.
NEW! National Survey on Bridge Financing
LegacyWorks Group, in partnership with the Conservation Finance Network and the Land Trust Alliance, is conducting a survey to understand the use of bridge loans and the need for education within the conservation community. Your perspective is needed to inform the development of new conservation financing tools and how to make them accessible. By completing it, you’ll be entered to win a $500 education award for professional development or to attend the Conservation Finance Boot Camp or the Land Trust Alliance’s 2025 Rally. Take the survey.
NEW! Introduction To GIS Mapping Micro-Credential
The Maine Geospatial Institute, in partnership with the University of Maine System Micro-Credential Initiative, is offering a fully online, asynchronous course designed for individuals from any discipline interested in learning the fundamentals of advanced mapping technologies and tools. Learn more and register. NEW! Concerns Over H5 Bird Flu
H5 bird flu is widespread in wild birds globally, causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows. Massachusetts has been managing a continuous outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza since early 2022. The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is advising backyard and commercial poultry owners to practice strong biosecurity measures to prevent domestic poultry from having contact with wild birds, their feathers, and droppings and areas where they frequent. During site visits to livestock operations, ensure you wear plastic booties and follow any additional biosecurity measures set by the landowner. Learn more.
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