eNews
The Newsletter of the Massachusetts Land Conservation Community |
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| July 23 2026, Volume 24, Number 7 |
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Aerial view of Sesuet Farm Historic Sesuet Farm Saved Through $1.5M Community Campaign
The Dennis Conservation Land Trust and local neighbors raised $1.5 million to save Sesuet Farm, one of Dennis’ oldest working farms, preserving a rare piece of Cape Cod’s agricultural history dating to 1713. The trust purchased the farm’s remaining 4.35 acres in East Dennis on May 13, 2026 with neighbors providing most of the funding. The property includes a historic farmhouse, barn, carriage house, stone walls and the remnants of a former cranberry bog. The Trust plans to preserve the farm’s history while partnering with agricultural nonprofits to keep the land in active farming.
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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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Hello Massachusetts Conservation Folks!
If you’re wondering where the charming selfie is, don’t worry! I hope to take some photos of myself in the field, but don’t expect the great angles and gorgeous vistas you might be used to seeing in Robb’s legendary photos. My own selfies tend to have wonky horizon lines and unflattering chin angles, but I will still put them out there! Okay, in all seriousness, I am delighted to be here at MLTC. It’s been a whirlwind first month of learning and meeting folks and stretching to fit into a challenging and exciting new job.
One very meaningful highlight was attending the Land Trust Leadership: Practical Strategies Retreat we held in partnership with our friends from LTA in Plymouth at Wildlands’ Stewardship Training Center. It was eye opening and humbling to hear stories of growing pains, discomfort, success, and change from leaders in all kinds of roles. Everyone shared struggles and doubts, but also deep insights and great optimism. One attendee shared with me how much they wished they had attended an event like this five years ago at the beginning of their leadership journey - what a difference it might have made.
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A talented and insightful group of leaders convened in Plymouth in late June
So I leave you with this: at MLTC, we are working hard to produce resources and programming for every member of our community. If you are reading this but haven’t yet considered a networking call, field trip, short course, or taken a few minutes to access our online resources or email discussion group - please give them a look! And let me know what we’re missing and how we can do better. Thank you!
Cheers, Katy and the MLTC team: Barbara, Lauren, and Ashley
katy@massland.org #OurMassLandTrusts |
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FY27 Board Transitions: Welcome Max! Celebrating New Leadership
We’re excited to welcome Max Feldman to our Board as Treasurer. Max brings valuable expertise from his role as Deputy Director at Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust. We’re also pleased to announce Anna Wilkins as our new Board President and Rob Warren as Vice President. Thank you to Janet Milkman for her outstanding leadership as President over the past two years. We’re grateful for all our incredible board members and excited for the year ahead! Learn more about our team here.
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Max Feldman, MLTC’s newest board member, serving as Treasurer |
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Field Trip: Cooper Hill: Landscape-scale Conservation via Alliance Building Saturday August 1, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm, in-person, Sheffield MA (optional 12:30-2:00 pm walk through scenic backfields)
The Cooper Hill Conservation Project will protect over 1,000 acres in the towns of Sheffield, MA and Salisbury, CT. Walk the fields and trails on the Massachusetts side and enjoy the vistas while learning how the Cooper Hill Conservation Alliance quickly formed to work with those who had farmed a large portion of this land for over two decades. Hear how this complex project was made possible not only through multiple conservation tools but, importantly, through trust and collaboration among many partners. After the tour, the hosts have offered to take participants on an additional 1.5-hour walk through hilly terrain to scenic backfield views. Nearby protected lands include Bartholomew’s Cobble and Hurlburt’s Hill.
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NEW! Apply for the 2026 ECCN Mentorship Program Mentee and Mentor application deadline: Monday August 31 Program duration: October 2026 - October 2027
To foster continued learning, build meaningful connections, and support professional development in the land conservation field, MLTC's Early Conservation Career Network (ECCN) is accepting applications for its 2026 - 2027 ECCN Mentorship Program. This mentorship opportunity connects emerging professionals with experienced leaders in the land conservation community. Whether you're looking for guidance as you grow your career or are interested in sharing your experience with the next generation of conservation professionals, we encourage you to apply. Mentee Application & Mentor Application. Please contact Mariah Fogg at mfogg@lta.org and Thomas Patti at tpatti@lincolninst.edu with questions.
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NEW! Stewardship Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday September 2, 2:00 - 3:00 pm
Participants will discuss how organizations are using GIS in their stewardship efforts. Come with your creative ideas and questions. Anyone responsible for land stewardship (staff, Board, volunteers) is welcome to attend this forum for discussion among peers. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series, this call will not be recorded. Newcomers welcome! Free, but registration required. |
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Mindful Birding in the Berkshires with ECCN Friday September 4, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm, in-person, Thomas & Palmer Brook Reserve, Great Barrington MA
Join the Early Conservation Career Network for a mindful birding walk led by educator and birder Dave Edson, who will guide an experience centered on intentional observation and connection with nature. The reserve, managed by the Berkshire Natural Resources Council, features a diverse mix of meadow, wetland, and forest habitats that support a wide variety of birdlife throughout the seasons. |
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NEW! Small Staffed & All Volunteer Land Trusts Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday September 9, 4:00 - 5:00 pm
This year we're combining two groups, as the topics of interest are often quite similar. This networking group is open to anyone with responsibilities of running or working in a small staffed land trust or an all volunteer land trust. September's focus will be decided closer to the date, though conversation flows based on the interest of the group assembled. Contact admin@massland.org with ideas. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series, this call will not be recorded. Newcomers welcome! Free, but registration required.
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NEW! Development Staff Quarterly Networking Zoom Thursday September 10, 1:00 - 2:00 pm
Open to anyone with development responsibilities. The focus of this call will be major gift fundraising for land projects, though conversation often flows to other topics. Join us to share experiences, ask questions, and learn from each other. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series, this call will not be recorded. Newcomers welcome! Free, but registration required. |
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September 2026 Conservation Partners Meeting Friday September 25, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, in-person, Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center, Worcester MA, or attend 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. Only register if attending on Zoom. |
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Save the Date: 2026 Land Trust / State Agency Retreat Wednesday October 7, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, in-person only, Saima Park, Fitchburg MA, registration coming soon Hosted by MLTC and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA), this annual event provides an opportunity for over 80 land trust and state agency leaders to strategize on timely land conservation issues while strengthening relations among conservation partners. |
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Strategic Planning for Small Organizations Short Course Thursdays (October 15, 22, and 29), 4:00 - 5:30 pm, via Zoom
This three-part series, co-hosted with the Land Trust Alliance, is designed for small land trusts interested in understanding the value of strategic planning and how to approach it effectively. Through an interactive, hands-on format, participants will explore key concepts and practical exercises that can be applied directly within their own organizations. Tailored to the unique needs of small land trusts, this course equips both board members and staff with tools to develop a thoughtful strategic planning process, whether or not they engage an outside facilitator for assistance. One registration covers all participants within your organization for all three weeks. COST: $50 for either members of MLTC or LTA, $75 non-members.
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Field Trip: Newly-Protected Slocum-Gibbs Cranberry Company Property Friday October 16, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm, in-person, precise location TBD
Join Buzzards Bay Coalition (BBC) for a guided tour of the Slocum-Gibbs Cranberry Company property. In 2025, BBC partnered with growers, four towns, and state and federal agencies to conserve 1,652 acres across southeastern Massachusetts. Spanning Carver, Middleborough, Rochester, and Wareham, the property protects forests, cranberry bogs being restored, and wetlands along the Weweantic and Sippican Rivers—forming two large, permanently conserved blocks.
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| Save the Date: 2027 Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference
Friday March 19, 2027, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm, in-person at UMass Amherst, Amherst MA |
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Share Your Volunteer Opportunities
MLTC's new Volunteer Board provides the opportunity to spread the word about a volunteer opportunity at your land conservation organization. To post, click the "Fill out form" button and set the choice to ‘volunteer’. If the position meets our guidelines, we’ll publish it for up to two months. We welcome all types of volunteer roles - from board service to office support and everything in between.
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Support MLTC with Your Membership!
Thanks so much to many who have already responded to our FY27 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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Vote Yes on Question 6: Protect Nature in Massachusetts (Nature for MA)
The Protect Water and Nature Ballot Initiative will be Question 6 on the November 2026 statewide ballot in Massachusetts, to fund up to $100 million per year for land and water conservation using existing state sales taxes on sporting goods. The Nature for MA coalition collected more than 122,000 signatures from voters across the Commonwealth to place the initiative on the ballot. Join the Protect Water and Nature YES Campaign Launch on Tuesday July 28 at 10:00 am (originally Wednesday July 22) on the Esplanade! RSVP.
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Passing this measure remains MLTC’s top policy priority for the remainder of this year, and we encourage you and your constituents to join statewide activities to promote a YES vote this November. Stay updated about the Protect Water & Nature ballot initiative at natureforma.org.
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Environmental Bond Bill/Massachusetts Ready Act Update -
The Massachusetts legislature is working through the Mass Ready Act before sending it to the Governor for signature later this year. The bill is currently in the Conference Committee. MLTC is part of a coalition that has been advocating for this bill in support of state spending on land acquisition, restoration, and water supply protection. See the coalition letter here.
- The coalition supports funding levels and policy provisions in the Mass Ready Act to advance climate resilience, land and water conservation, environmental justice, and public health across Massachusetts, and asked the Committee to strengthen these provisions so the final bill delivers lasting benefits.
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MLTC also joined with many other organizations urging the Conference Committee to reject Senate provisions that would undermine local authority to protect wetlands and water resources. This could increase flood risks, threaten water quality, and force communities to choose between protecting public health and maintaining access to state funding. The letter asked the Conference Committee to retain the House's removal of these sections that are in the Senate bill, so Massachusetts can advance both housing development and climate resilience while preserving local environmental safeguards.
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Opportunities to Provide Feedback: |
Share your Feedback on Proposed Habitat Goals for MassWildlife Lands Submit feedback by Friday July 31, 5:00 pm
MassWildlife is seeking public feedback on proposed upland habitat goals designed to support declining open habitats, mature forests, and the diverse wildlife that depend on them. Visit the Habitat Goals webpage to learn about these habitats, explore the proposed goals, watch a recorded presentation, and submit comments through this online form.
APR Seeks Public Comment on Farm Labor Housing Guidelines Submit feedback by Monday August 3, 5:00 pm
The Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) Program is seeking public comment on its proposed Housing for Farm Labor Guidelines. These guidelines outline the criteria for obtaining Massachusetts Department Agricultural Resources (MDAR) approval to construct farm labor housing on APR-protected land through the Certificate of Approval (COA) process. Feedback will help inform any revisions before the guidelines are finalized. Submit feedback.
Open Comment Period: Streamlining Wetlands Permitting for Restoration and Trails Submit comments by: Thursday August 20
MassDEP is proposing amendments to the Wetlands regulations (310 CMR 10.00) and the Water Quality Regulations (314 CMR 9.00) to streamline permitting for wetland restoration projects, invasive plant removal, and maintaining trails in the buffer zone. These amendments will support goals described in both the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Clean Energy and Climate Plan and the Executive Order for Biodiversity Conservation in Massachusetts, and will benefit land trusts by reducing the costs and red tape associated with land stewardship. Public comments can be submitted here.
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In Memory of Bob Levite, 1949 - 2026
Bob was an environmental attorney devoted to public service, dedicating his career to protecting water resources, conserving land, and advancing environmental law across New England. |
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He helped shape MLTC's early years as a founding Board member, led the legal work to incorporate MLTC as an independent nonprofit in 2010 and served for many years on the Massachusetts Easement Defense Subcommittee (now MLTC's Legal Advisory Committee), co-authoring legal advisories that continue to guide our work today. A celebration of life will be held at Cedarbrook Village, 73 South Street, Ware MA, on Friday, August 7, at 11:00 am. Read more.
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Massachusetts Awards $2.2 Million to Protect Critical Landscapes
The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded more than $2.2 million through the Landscape Partnership Grant Program to conserve over 1,600 acres of forests, drinking water resources, and natural landscapes across Franklin, Hampshire, and Plymouth counties. The funded projects will expand outdoor recreation opportunities, strengthen climate resilience, protect wildlife habitat, and advance the state’s Forests as Climate Solutions Initiative. Awardees include Hilltown Land Trust, in partnership with Department of Fish & Game (DFG); Franklin Land Trust, in partnership with DFG; The Trustees of Reservations; the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation; Mass Audubon; Kestrel Land Trust; and the Buzzards Bay Coalition, in partnership with the Town of Wareham. Read more.
$150,000 Awarded to Protect Habitat and Water Quality in the Buzzards Bay Watershed
The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded $150,000 in grants to protect habitat and water quality in the Buzzards Bay watershed. Through the Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program and the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management, the Towns of Bourne and Plymouth will each receive $75,000 to support the permanent protection of more than 390 acres of forested uplands, cranberry bogs, and wetlands at the head of Buttermilk Bay. The Buttermilk Bay Land Conservation Project, a partnership between the Buzzards Bay Coalition and the two municipalities, will help preserve critical natural resources and strengthen long-term conservation efforts in the watershed. Read more.
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The deadline to submit events for August eNews is Monday August 17. Please send your events to Lauren Berk at lberk@massland.org. |
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NEW! Protect Water and Nature YES Campaign Launch Rally Tuesday July 28, 10:00 - 11:00 am, in-person, Fiedler Dock, Charles River Esplanade, Boston MA (originally scheduled for Wednesday July 22) Join conservation, outdoor recreation, and parks advocates on the Charles River Esplanade to launch the YES Campaign to Protect Water and Nature. If approved by voters, this ballot initiative will provide up to $100 million annually to protect clean water, restore forests, and enhance local parks—all without raising taxes. |
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NEW! Massachusetts DCR Climate Resiliency Actions: Part Two Wednesday July 29, 11:45 am - 1:00 pm, online
The Environmental Business Council of New England is hosting a webinar focused on the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation’s (DCR) Priority Actions. Sarah White, Director of Climate Resilience, will highlight key accomplishments and provide updates on DCR’s latest initiatives, including ongoing efforts to strengthen climate resilience across the Commonwealth. |
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NEW! Getting Real About Land Trust Financial Management Risks Wednesday July 29, 2:00 - 3:30 pm, online
Hosted by the Land Trust Alliance, this training introduces a risk-based approach to preventing, detecting, and responding to financial misappropriation, misstatements, and corruption. Kay Sohl and Allison Rehor will share practical, cost-effective strategies to strengthen controls, safeguard assets, and support mission-driven work. |
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Land Trust Rally in Denver CO Early bird registration deadline: Friday July 31
Conference dates: Wednesday September 16 - Saturday September 19, start times vary
Land Trust Alliance Rally is the national land conservation conference, providing an amazing opportunity for land conservationists to gather, learn, share ideas and inspire one another to build strong communities with open space, clean air and water, sustainable food sources and natural habitats. |
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NEW! Applied Drone Mapping and Data Collection Monday August 3 - Wednesday August 5, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, in-person, Tufts University, Medford MA
This workshop aims to give working professionals and graduate students the opportunity to build practical skills in drone-based data collection and mapping. Through a mix of foundational instruction, supervised flight experience, and hands-on data processing, participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to use drone technology in real-world research and professional projects. |
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NEW! Spotted Lanternfly Quarterly Update Wednesday August 12, 10:00 - 11:15 am, online
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is hosting its Spotted Lanternfly Quarterly Update featuring a presentation from Scrape for the Grape, a Virginia-based community initiative that has mobilized more than 1,000 volunteers to remove and destroy spotted lanternfly egg masses threatening vineyards and wineries. |
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NEW! Massachusetts Shorebird Blitz Walk at Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge Sunday August 16, 9:00 - 11:00 am, in-person, Morris Island, Chatham MA Join Manomet Conservation Sciences and Friends of Monomoy for a bird walk at the Morris Island section of Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. Led by Manomet Shorebird Biologist Liana DiNunzio, participants will explore Monomoy’s role as a stopover site for migrating shorebirds while helping collect data that supports future conservation efforts. |
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NEW! Introduction to Land Acquisition Wednesday August 19, 3:00 - 4:00 pm, online This is the first session of the Partnership for National Trails System’s (PNTS) Trail Protection Webinar Series. Participants will learn how successful land acquisitions come together, including best practices for developing landowner agreements, fundraising strategies, real estate due diligence, and effective collaboration between trail organizations and land trusts.
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NEW! How to Rally: Navigating the 2026 Land Conservation Conference Thursday September 3, 2:00 - 3:00 pm, online
Rally 2026 will take place in Denver, Colorado, from Wednesday September 16– Saturday September 19, and offers a robust schedule of training sessions and networking opportunities. First-time attendees—or those seeking a refresher—are encouraged to join an introductory webinar. These sessions will provide an overview of Rally programming, offer tips for making the most of the experience, and create an opportunity to connect with fellow participants from across the country.
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MACC's 2026 Fall Conference Saturday October 24, 8:00 am - 3:30 pm, in-person, Devens Common Center, Devens MA. Registration is coming soon.
This year's theme for the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) 2026 Fall Conference, "Why We Do What We Do: The Science and Ecology of Wetlands Protection," explores the scientific foundations and ecological principles that inform wetlands conservation and guide regulatory decision-making. |
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Visit our Grants Database to view all available grant opportunities and learn more about the grants below. |
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Conservation Innovation Grants On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials Application deadline: Monday July 27, 11:59 pm
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is offering grants of up to $5 million for projects that test innovative conservation approaches on working agricultural land. Funding priorities include irrigation management, nutrient management, grazing lands, and soil health trials. Apply. |
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Cummings Foundation’s $35 Million Grant Fund Informational sessions:
Thursday July 30, 9:00 am. Zoom link.
Tuesday August 25, 1:00 pm. Zoom link. Letter of Inquiry (LOI) deadline: Wednesday September 16, 5:00 pm Cummings Foundation is offering grants of up to $300,000 for local nonprofits in greater Boston to support human services, fairness and justice, education, healthcare, and environmental work. Submit LOI. |
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Destination Development Capital Grants Application deadline: Tuesday August 11, 3:00 pm
The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism is offering funding for capital projects that expand, construct, restore, or renovate tourism destinations and attractions. A total of $8 million is available statewide. Eligible applicants include municipalities, nonprofits, and other tourism organizations. Apply.
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Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Grants Application deadline: Monday August 24, 5:00 pm
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is offering grants of up to $10 million for partner-led conservation projects on agricultural and private forest land. Funding supports soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and agricultural land protection. Apply. |
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Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements Grants Application deadline: Monday August 24, 5:00 pm
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is offering grants of up to $10 million for partner-led projects in which organizations work directly with agricultural producers to deliver innovative conservation approaches. Funding supports soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and agricultural land protection. Apply.
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New Resources and Opportunities |
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Independent Climate Information Platform
Climate.us is a nonprofit climate information website, created by former members of the team behind the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA’s) Climate.gov. The platform aims to provide accurate, accessible, and scientifically rigorous climate information. Read more. |
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Heat Resilience Policy Agenda for Massachusetts
The Barr Foundation’s Heat Community of Practice developed a heat resilience policy agenda to guide action across Massachusetts and establish a shared foundation for addressing extreme heat. The agenda brings together insights, priorities, and opportunities to inform current efforts while shaping future conversations and strategies to build more heat-resilient communities. |
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MAPC’s Extreme Heat Resources The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) has compiled resources to help municipalities support residents’ health and safety during the remainder of the summer heat. |
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Climate Mayors’ Extreme Heat Toolkit
Developed in partnership with the Hazelwood Network and Switch 5, and building on the work of Climate Mayors’ Extreme Heat Cohort—led by Mayor Regina Romero of Tucson and Mayor Daniella Levine Cava of Miami Dade. While informed by diverse regional experiences, the guidance is designed to support communities across the United States. |
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Urban Forests Health Resource
American Forests has launched The Boston Region: Tree Species Vulnerability Assessment, developed with the Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science and regional partners. The resource summarizes climate projections and evaluates tree species vulnerability across Boston. |
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