eNews
The Newsletter of the Massachusetts Land Conservation Community |
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| September 18 2025, Volume 23, Number 9 |
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Upper Taunton River at Wyman North Fork Conservation Area, Bridgewater. Photo: Jerry Monkman. 90 Acres Protected on the Taunton River in Bridgewater
Wildlands Trust acquired 90 acres along the upper Taunton River in Bridgewater, forming the new Perkins Bridgewater Preserve. Located off Cherry Street, the land contains approximately one mile of river frontage and 11 potential vernal pools, and sits directly across the river from the existing Wyman North Fork Conservation Area. Together, the two properties protect 186 contiguous acres—making it the largest protected corridor along the upper Taunton above Cherry Street. This brings Wildlands’ total conserved lands along the Wild and Scenic Taunton River and its tributaries to over 2,000 acres.
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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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| It was great to talk and laugh with about 20 conservation colleagues at the Massachusetts State Gathering at Rally on Friday, Sept. 5. #OurMassLandTrusts |
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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 (10:00 am vs. 9:30 am). View details. |
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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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| 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 EEA, this seminar will be a comprehensive guide to help you locate deeds that are hard to find; know what to do when there are references to things potentially affecting the title; and be aware of 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.
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NEW! ECCN: Fall Foliage Hike in the Berkshires Thursday October 16, 12:00 - 4:00 pm, in-person, Basin Pond Reserve, Lee MA
Join the Early Conservation Career Network for a casual hike among the beautiful fall colors that bring thousands of tourists to the Berkshires every year. We'll start by enjoying a meal in downtown Lee (sandwiches or salads from Loeb's Foodtown) at a nearby park. Then, we'll head to Berkshire Natural Resources Council’s Basin Pond Reserve for a hike around its 2.5-mile loop trail, through boulder fields and under a beautiful mixed forest canopy. A viewing platform offers a scenic vista of the pond, beaver lodges and dams, and a historic (human-made) dam.
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| 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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| 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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NEW! December 2025 Conservation Partners Meeting Friday December 12, 10:00 am - 12:15 pm, 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 (TBD). A detailed agenda will be sent in advance to all registrants. |
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NEW! Stewardship Short Course Tuesdays (Jan 20, Jan 27, Feb 3, and Feb 10), 4:00 - 5:30 pm, via Zoom
This four-part series, co-hosted with the Land Trust Alliance, will explore key fundamentals of land stewardship. The course will cover stewardship of both fee lands and conservation restrictions, highlight best practices, and provide a collaborative space to discuss common challenges. One registration covers all participants within your organization for all four weeks. Cost: $50 for members of either MLTC or LTA, $75 non-members.
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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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Thank you to our generous Conference Sponsors! |
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Nature for Massachusetts Campaign Gathers Signatures
For over a year, the Nature for Massachusetts Coalition has been working hard to build support for The Nature for All Bill (H.901/S.597), which would 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. While legislative action on the bill is pending, some members of the Coalition are mounting a parallel effort to place the matter before voters in November 2026 via initiative petition. On September 3, Attorney General Andrea Campbell approved advocates’ preferred version of the ballot petition, and signature gathering is underway. Supporters must submit nearly 75,000 certified signatures by December 3, 2025. If these signatures are verified, the Legislature will have until the end of June to pass the measure. If the legislature doesn’t act, proponents must submit 12,429 additional certified signatures by July 1 to place the proposed law on the November 2026 ballot. MLTC has signed on as a supporter of the ballot campaign. To add your organization's name to the ballot coalition, fill out this form. Check this page to learn about ways to volunteer, including helping to gather signatures. While not legal advice, this article offers a helpful primer on how your organization can advocate for issues like this while protecting your organization's non-profit status.
Draft Regulations released for Energy Facility Siting
On September 12, State agencies released a set of draft regulations and guidance documents to implement provisions of the 2024 Climate Act, which aims to accelerate the development of clean energy facilities while mitigating impacts on communities and the environment. The array of proposed changes is significant and multi-faceted. See this page for a complete overview, including a schedule of in-person and hybrid information sessions and public hearings to be held in October and early November. Documents released September 12 include:
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Draft Guidance on Site Suitability Assessments for Clean Energy Infrastructure, which describes the methodology for determining the suitability of sites for applicable energy infrastructure and provides recommendations on how permitting authorities should use the methodology. Written comments on the guidance will be accepted through October 24; send those to EnergyPermitting@mass.gov.
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Draft guidelines governing the potential use and applicability of Community Benefit Plans and Community Benefit Agreements, intended to ensure they provide meaningful, measurable benefits to communities hosting energy infrastructure. Written comments on the guidelines will be accepted through October 24; send those to ej.inquiries@mass.gov.
Revised Solar Regulations Take Effect
On September 12, updated draft emergency regulations took effect for the SMART 3.0 program, which governs state incentives available for the development of certain solar energy facilities. The regulations include a new approach to scoring parcels proposed for ground-mount projects, using environmental/land use/electric grid criteria and a system for mitigation fees. Details on final scoring and values will be described in a forthcoming guidance document, and a public comment period on the guidance is expected. Learn more.
Commission to Study PILOT Fairness
On August 13, Governor Healey issued an Executive Order establishing a Commission on PILOT for State-Owned Land. The Commonwealth owns over 500 million acres of land across the state, and makes payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) to municipalities that host state land and facilities to help offset some of the revenue lost from having those properties off the tax rolls. Municipalities with the most state-owned land are primarily in Western Massachusetts, but under the current funding formula they receive lower payments than communities in eastern Massachusetts due to lower property values. The Commission will be charged with evaluating potential changes, with particular attention to geographic equity.
MEPA Streamlining Proposed for Development and Restoration
On September 9, Governor Healey announced a proposal for expedited environmental permitting for certain projects that are currently required to submit a full Environmental Impact Report (EIR) under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA), either because of their size or location in an environmental justice (EJ) community. To qualify for relief, projects would have to be at least 67% housing and meet additional criteria regarding floodplains, energy efficiency, and access to existing water infrastructure. Land that is in Priority Habitat, prime farmland, or in the top quintile of high carbon storage forests would not be eligible. Redevelopment is incentivized, though up to 10 acres of land clearing is allowed provided there is some tree planting and retention. This proposal would override a 2021 change in the MEPA statute requiring an EIR for all projects in EJ communities undergoing MEPA review. The proposed changes would also exempt Ecological Restoration Limited projects from a mandatory EIR. These changes are distinct from other permit streamlining proposals that were included in the Mass Ready Act (Environmental Bond Bill) filed by the Governor on June 24 and currently under review by the Legislature. Public hearings on these latest proposed regulations will be held October 14 and 15, with comments due by October 31. If approved, the change could take effect by the end of this year. Learn more.
Sign on to Accelerate Wetland Restoration
Mass Audubon is coordinating a campaign to increase the pace of wetland restoration by reducing the time and expense involved in permitting these beneficial projects. To demonstrate the depth and breadth of support across the state, you can join the list of organizations and communities supporting the transformation of restoration permitting to accelerate progress. You can review the statement and sign on here. For more information contact Heidi Ricci at hricci@massaudubon.org.
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State Biodiversity Goals
On August 21, Governor Healey released “Biodiversity Conservation Goals for the Commonwealth”, a 25-year plan to protect and restore nature across the state. She also announced Massachusetts’ intention to join the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), making Massachusetts the first state to do so. The Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game developed the plan with input from state agencies, municipalities, Tribes and community partners. The plan sets biodiversity targets for 2030, 2040 and 2050, including for coastal and marine habitats. Learn more.
MVP Action Grants Awarded
On September 15, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced the latest round of Municipal Vulnerability Program (MVP) Action Grants. A total of $28.7 million was awarded to 54 communities. This year program staff encouraged rural and small towns to apply, and also offered an initiative to pair communities with "equity partners" -- local organizations and individuals that specialize in community engagement. Awarded projects included $400,000 to the City of Boston for wetland and stream restoration at Mass Audubon's Boston Nature Center; $859,400 to the City of Brockton for climate resilience work at D.W. Field Park, where Wildlands Trust is a leading partner; $196,230 to the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe for the Tidmarsh Farms Homestead Planning and Acquisition Project; and $218,500 to Oxford for a project to transform a former gas station and maintenance facility into a passive park and pollinator garden. Learn more.
Dam and Seawall Projects Receive Funding
On September 4, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced over $10.9 million in grants from the Dam and Seawall Repair or Removal Program. The funding will support 23 municipalities and nonprofit organizations in repairing or removing aging dams, seawalls, levees, and other at-risk structures. These improvements will help protect communities from flooding and other hazards while also restoring natural ecosystems. Grant recipients included East Quabbin Land Trust for its Wheelwright Pond Dam Removal project, The Trustees of Reservations for its Lunden Dam Removal project, and Mass Audubon for its Bowens Pond Dam Removal project. Learn more.
Grants Awarded to Support Forests and Rural Economies in Western Mass
On August 28, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced more than $310,000 in grant funding to improve access to outdoor recreation and promote sustainable tourism in Western Massachusetts. Six rural communities and three regional organizations received grants through the Woodlands Partnership Program. Recipients included Berkshire Natural Resources Council for its Hoosac Range Climate Smart Forest Stewardship Plan, the Franklin Land Trust for its Lands for H.O.P.E. project, and the New England Forestry Foundation for its Voices for the Forest initiative. Read more.
SJC Rules Estabrook Road Still Open to the Public
On August 15, in Concord v. Rasmussen (SJC-13721), the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) ruled that Estabrook Road is still a public road, even though the Town of Concord stopped maintaining it in 1932. The case arose when abutters asserted they could limit or curtail the public’s use of the road as a trail. Justice Kafker explained that just because a town stops maintaining a road doesn’t mean the public loses the right to use it, and that only a vote at a town meeting can take away that access. The Court didn’t decide exactly what the public is allowed to do on such roads or how much control towns or neighbors have over their use. The ruling also said that a road can still be considered public even when key documentation is missing, provided there’s sufficient other historical evidence. Read more.
State Sells Surplus Land for Housing
On September 10, five vacant state-owned parcels comprising a total of 25 acres were sold at auction for a total of $2.9 million. The parcels were located in Westborough, Northborough, Templeton, Phillipston and Wilmington. The sites were sold subject to deed restrictions mandating use for housing, and the Wesborough and Northborough parcels (which were part of the former Westborough State Hospital property) include a state requirement that their towns permit higher-density housing as-of-right rather than through special permit. These sales represent the first sold under a Healey-Driscoll Administration initiative to sell more than 450 acres of surplus land to unlock the potential for over 3,500 new housing units. The state is now seeking bids on properties in Bedford, Bridgewater, Fitchburg and Lowell.
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NEW! Keeping Farmers on the Land Tuesday September 23, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm, via YouTube
American Farmland Trust is hosting a livestream during Climate Week NYC to engage corporate and public policy leaders on the role of regenerative agriculture and farmland protection in building climate resilience. Speakers include AFT CEO John Piotti, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner Ashley Randle, Rep. Chellie Pingree (Maine), and Rep. Adriano Espaillat (New York). |
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NEW! Fire and Wildlife Habitat: A Natural Process and Management Tool Tuesday September 23, 12:00 - 1:00 pm, via Zoom
MassWildlife is hosting this webinar on its Prescribed Fire Program. Program Manager Caren Caljouw will discuss fire’s ecological role and its use in habitat management across Massachusetts. Habitat Biologist Ben Mazzei will share his experience on a wildfire deployment in Alaska and its benefits for local prescribed fire training. The session will go over how prescribed fire supports wildlife conservation and community safety.
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NEW! Seeds of Change: Assisting Gene Flow for Climate Adaptation Thursday September 25, 10:00 - 11:00 am
Co-hosted by the Northeast Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change Management Network (NE RISCC) and the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (NE CASC), this event features a presentation by authors Eve Beaury, Matt Brincka, Grace Gutierrez, and Bethany Bradley on their newly released NE RISCC Research to Practice Paper, "Seeds of Change: Assisting Gene Flow for Climate Adaptation." |
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NEW! Protecting Farmland in your Town: Tools & Funding Strategies for Municipalities Thursday September 25, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
This solutions-focused webinar features experts from American Farmland Trust, MA Department of Agricultural Resources, Southeastern Regional Planning & Econ Dev District (SRPEDD), and Land For Good, sharing strategies and case studies on tools like Chapter 61A, Right of First Refusal, Open Space Plans, and CPA funding. Attendees will leave with actionable steps and participate in a Q&A with presenters. |
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NEW! Organizational Restructuring, Strategic Affiliations, or Wind-down Thursday September 25, 11:00 am, via Zoom
Join the Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division of Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s Office for a webinar tailored to nonprofit and charitable organizations across Massachusetts. Part of an ongoing series, this session addresses the challenges nonprofits face amid shifting federal policies and funding. Topics will include legal considerations during organizational transitions, restructuring, strategic partnerships, and how to responsibly wind down or dissolve if independent operations are no longer viable.
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| Rainwater Readiness Stormwater Workshop Series Thursdays (September 25 - November 6), times vary. Hybrid, in-person at Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center, Worcester, 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. |
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| Land Trust Finance Peer Networking Group Thursday September 25, 1:00 - 2:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above. |
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NEW! Nonprofit-Provided Employee Housing: Can Nonprofits Build the New Company Towns? Thursday October 2, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Bowditch and Dewey is hosting a webinar on how nonprofits are developing employee housing in response to the growing affordability crisis. Rising housing costs are making it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain qualified staff, particularly frontline, seasonal, and lower-wage employees. Attendees will learn common approaches to nonprofit-provided housing and leave with a basic roadmap for creating legally compliant, mission-aligned programs that support workforce stability.
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NEW! What Nonprofits Need to Know about the Current Federal Grants Landscape Monday October 6, 3:00 - 4:00 pm
The National Council of Nonprofits is hosting a webinar to help nonprofit organizations navigate recent changes affecting federal grants. New executive orders, agency memoranda, and updates to grant agreements have introduced uncertainty and raised concerns among nonprofits that partner with the federal government to deliver critical services. |
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NEW! ResilientCoasts: Developing a Statewide Approach to Coastal Resilience Tuesday October 7, 12:00 - 1:00 pm, via Zoom
Attend the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commission's (MACC) Lunch and Learn event featuring Deanna Moran, Chief Coastal Resilience Officer at the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management, who will present the newly released ResilientCoasts Plan—a comprehensive, whole-of-government strategy for strengthening coastal resilience in Massachusetts. Learn more.
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| 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. |
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NEW! Restricted Funds: Endowments and Fund Modifications Tuesday October 21, 11:00 am, via Zoom
Join the Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division of Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s Office for an informative webinar designed for nonprofit and charitable organizations across Massachusetts. Part of an ongoing series, this session will explore the legal framework for restricted charitable assets, including fund modification, flexible endowment spending, and when to seek court approval for changes in fund use. |
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| Small-Staffed Land Trusts Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday October 22, 12:00 - 1:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above. |
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| AVLT (All-Volunteer Land Trust) Quarterly Networking Call Wednesday October 22, 3:00 - 4:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above. |
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NEW! Advice for Smaller Volunteer-Led Organizations Tuesday November 18, 11:00 am, via Zoom
Join the Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division of Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s Office for an informative webinar designed for nonprofit and charitable organizations across Massachusetts. Part of an ongoing series, this session will cover best practices for small, volunteer-led charitable organizations, including fiduciary duties, compliance requirements, AGO registration and filing, and financial sustainability strategies.
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| 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. |
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| December 2025 Conservation Partners Meeting Friday December 12, 10:00 am - 12:15 pm See details under MLTC News, above. |
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| Stewardship Short Course Tuesdays (Jan 20, Jan 27, Feb 3, and Feb 10), 4:00 - 5:30 pm See details under MLTC News, above. |
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In-Person Events and Outings |
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NEW! Municipal Culvert Replacement Training Wednesday September 24, 8:00 am - 12:30 pm, in-person, Hanover Town Hall, Hanover
The Stream Continuity Team, in partnership with the North and South Rivers Watershed Association and the Old Colony Planning Council, is hosting a free training session on municipal culvert replacement. Designed for municipal employees beginning culvert projects, the training will cover stream dynamics, the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards, funding processes, and local watershed group activities. |
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| Rainwater Readiness 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. |
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| Field Trip: Nature-based Solutions in Devens Friday September 26, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Devens See details under MLTC News, above. |
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NEW! MACC 2026 Annual Environmental Conference: Submit a Workshop Proposal Workshop proposal deadline: Friday September 29, 11:59 pm Conference date: Saturday February 28, time TBD, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester
Join nearly 800 conservation commissioners, agents, environmental officials, consultants, attorneys, students, activists, and others at the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions’ Annual Environmental Conference (AEC). MACC is inviting workshop proposals that focus on topics important to Massachusetts conservation commissioners, commission staff, and environmental specialists—such as implementing the Wetlands Protection Act, enhancing commission operations, and protecting wetlands and open spaces. Workshop proposal guidelines. Learn more.
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NEW! National Adaptation Forum: Submit a Workshop Proposal Workshop proposal deadline: Wednesday October 1
Forum dates: Tuesday May 12- Thursday May 14, time TBD, in-person, Pittsburgh PA
Hosted by Northeast Climate Adaptation Climate Network, The National Adaptation Forum gathers adaptation professionals from diverse sectors to address current and emerging climate adaptation challenges through training, presentations, and networking. The Forum’s primary goal is to advance adaptation from awareness to action by fostering innovation and sharing a wide range of adaptation efforts across the U.S. and beyond. Workshop proposal guidelines. Learn more.
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| 2025 Middleborough Town Forest Conference Saturday October 4, time TBD, in-person, Middleborough High School, Middleborough
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. |
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| Land Trust / State Agency Retreat Wednesday October 8 (full day) - Thursday October 9 (half day) See details under MLTC News, above. |
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| Lobby For The Rivers Day 2025 Wednesday October 8, 9:30 am - 4:00 pm, in-person, the State House, Boston
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. |
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NEW! Municipality Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Fall Field Trip #1
Wednesday October 15, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, in-person, Pine Grove Golf Course, Northampton MA
Participants will visit the former Pine Grove Golf Course to observe ongoing re-wilding efforts and the role of beavers in enhancing flood resilience in river ecosystems. Presentations will be given by local partners from the City of Northampton, Mass Audubon, The Trustees, and Fuss & O’Neill, including insights into related projects at a nearby golf course. |
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NEW! Municipality Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Fall Field Trip #2 Wednesday October 15, 2:00 - 4:00 pm, in-person, Belchertown MA This trip will provide hands-on experience with MassWildlife fisheries, including electrofishing, fish tagging, and tracking methods. Discussions will cover challenges to coldwater streams and brook trout from climate change. Participants with waders can explore the Swift River up close. |
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| ECCN: Fall Foliage Hike in the Berkshires Thursday October 16, 12:00 - 4:00 pm See details under MLTC News, above. |
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| MACC’s 2025 Fall Conference
Saturday October 25, 8:00 am - 3:30 pm, Devens Common Center, 31 Andrews Pkwy, Devens
The theme of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions' 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.
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| 2025 Regional Conservation Partnership (RCP) Network Gathering Thursday November 6, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, in-person, UMass Amherst, Amherst
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.
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2025 Massachusetts Food System Forum November 21, time TBD, in-person, The College of Holy Cross, Worcester
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.
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| 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. |
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NEW! Environment & Climate One Stop (ECO One Stop)
Info session: Thursday September 25, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, register.
Info session: Wednesday October 1, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, register.
Expressions of Interest (EOI) deadline: Tuesday October 28, 11:59 pm
The Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) has launched Environment & Climate One Stop (ECO One Stop) to streamline the grant application process for climate and environmental projects in Massachusetts. This year, DER’s Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance (CRMA) Grants and Training Site Initiative are integrated into this unified platform. ECO One Stop enables applicants to submit a single application to apply for multiple grants simultaneously.
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NEW! RNRF Grant Program Application deadline: Thursday September 30
The Renewable Natural Resources Foundation (RNRF) is providing funding to support initiatives that address environmental challenges such as air quality, biodiversity conservation, regenerative agriculture, and water quality. Priority will be given to projects that actively engage community partners and stakeholders, and that contribute to the integrated advancement of environmental, social, and economic systems. |
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NEW! Partners for Fish and Wildlife (PFW) Program Application deadline: Thursday September 30, 11:59 pm
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s PFW Program aims to help private landowners restore and protect habitats by offering technical assistance and financial support through cooperative agreements. The program works with partners and stakeholders to identify priority areas for conservation and set habitat goals. These focus areas guide the strategic use of resources to protect vital habitats for federal trust species. |
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NEW! Candidate Species Conservation Fund Application deadline: Thursday September 30, 11:59 pm
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is awarding $500,000 to support proactive conservation of at-risk species before they require Endangered Species Act protections. By partnering with agencies, Tribes, landowners, and organizations, the initiative promotes voluntary actions to conserve species and habitats. These efforts aim to stabilize populations, reduce stressors, and potentially avoid future listings, benefiting wildlife while minimizing regulatory burdens.
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| Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) Program 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.
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NEW! Land Conservation Assistance Grant Program Info session: Wednesday October 1, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Info session: Wednesday January 21, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Application deadline: Thursday April 30, 2026
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. To attend an info session, please RSVP to Darya Mattes at darya.mattes@mass.gov.
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NEW! Apply for Preliminary Dam Removal Design Services Application deadline: Wednesday October 1, 4:00 pm
The Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) is inviting Massachusetts municipalities to apply for preliminary dam removal design services. This opportunity supports early-stage projects by assessing dams to guide aquatic habitat restoration and climate resilience planning. Selected projects will receive technical assistance from DER staff and qualified contractors. |
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NEW! Forest Reserves Grant Info session: Wednesday October 22, 2:00 pm
Application deadline: Friday February 6, 3:00 pm
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA) offers the Land Acquisition for Forest Reserves grant to protect forested lands managed passively, allowing natural processes to unfold without active intervention. The grant supports expanding the state’s forest reserve network and preserving natural forest composition. Eligible municipalities, 501(c) nonprofits, and conservation organizations may receive up to 50% of project costs, with a maximum award of $425,000. To attend an info session, please RSVP to Vanessa Farny at vanessa.farny@mass.gov.
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NEW! The MOOR Inclusive and Accessible Events Grants Program Application deadline: Friday October 24
The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) is awarding grants up to $10,000 to help grassroots, local, and regional organizations develop or expand outdoor recreation events throughout the state. This program aims to engage and welcome new, historically excluded, marginalized, under-represented, diverse, and disadvantaged audiences in outdoor recreation activities and spaces. This grant opportunity targets events occurring before June 30, 2026.
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NEW! Microhabitat Program Incubator Grant Application deadline: Friday November 28, 11:59 pm
Village and Wilderness is offering Microhabitat Program Incubator Grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support nonprofit and public agencies developing site-specific microhabitat initiatives. These grants prioritize programs that serve vulnerable communities, species, and climate-sensitive landscapes across the United States. |
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| 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.
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NEW! Nonprofit Brownfield Technical Assistance Program rolling
The Groundwork USA Nonprofit Brownfield Technical Assistance Program offers a free service aimed at helping nonprofit organizations revitalize underutilized and potentially contaminated sites, known as brownfields. Through this program, nonprofits receive support to transform these sites into valuable community assets such as parks, trails, urban farms, and more. Whether a nonprofit is just beginning the brownfield redevelopment process or seeking to enhance their existing efforts, this program provides tailored assistance to guide them every step of the way. Learn more.
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NEW! The National Grassroots Organizing Program rolling
The Ben & Jerry’s Foundation's National Grassroots Organizing Program provides two-year, unrestricted general operating support grants of up to $30,000 per year—typically averaging $20,000 annually—to small, constituent-led grassroots organizations across the United States and its territories with annual budgets under $350,000. |
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| NEW! Seed Grants rolling
The Grassroots Fund is awarding grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 to support groups that are either launching new projects or making significant shifts in the direction of existing ones. These grants are intended for initiatives that are less than a year old. |
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| 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. |
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Resources and Opportunities |
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NEW! Donor Advised Funds and the OBBBA
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), will significantly limit the tax deductibility of charitable contributions for many taxpayers beginning in 2026. This article explores the role of Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) and how establishing or contributing to a DAF by the end of 2025 may help maximize the tax deductibility of philanthropic giving under the current rules. |
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| 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.
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NEW! Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals: Tribal Technical Assistance Wednesday September 24, 1:30 pm, via Zoom
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals has launched the Caring for Our Relatives Program, offering free technical assistance to Tribal nations for climate planning and resilience. Drop-in office hours are held the 4th Wednesday of every month at 1:30 pm through December. |
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NEW! Resources for Addressing a Changing Landscape
Many nonprofit organizations are navigating a challenging landscape, with funding and policy changes affecting their ability to serve communities and, in some cases, threatening their sustainability. Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell recognizes these concerns and is committed to supporting the sector with guidance and resources. The new NPCD Resource Page—for webinar recordings—is now available, along with the AGO NPCD page for additional resources.
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NEW! Communicating Climate Change Guide
Bold Bison’s Guide for Communicating Climate Change is a resource designed to help individuals and organizations talk about climate change in a way that is clear, compelling, and action-oriented. It emphasizes storytelling, empathy, and connecting climate issues to everyday values to make the message resonate with diverse audiences. |
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NEW! OBBBA for Nonprofits: What You Need to Know
In August, CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Connect hosted a webinar discussing the early drafts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which originally included several provisions with substantial implications for the nonprofit sector. Although many of those items were removed from the final legislation, key provisions remain. These include changes to charitable deduction limits, overtime and tip taxation rules, 1099 reporting thresholds, the phase-out of green energy credits, and potential effects from Medicaid funding cuts. Watch the recording and view the presentation slides.
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NEW! UAP’s Fall 2025-2026 Program Schedule
The Department of Conservation and Recreation's Universal Access Program provides outdoor recreation opportunities in Massachusetts state parks for visitors of all abilities. The fall season runs through November. |
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