eNews
The Newsletter of the Massachusetts Land Conservation Community |
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| March 19 2026, Volume 24, Number 3 |
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Aerial view of Chebacco Woods
66 Acres Adjacent to Chebacco Woods Secured for Conservation
In January 2026, Essex County Greenbelt Association permanently protected 66 acres in Hamilton, adjoining Chebacco Woods. This long-priority conservation land, featuring mature forests, rocky outcrops, vernal pools, and working farmland, expands a cherished trail network. Greenbelt raised $3.7 million from 700 donors, with strong support from local groups including Save Chebacco Trails & Watershed, the Chebacco Lake & Watershed Association, and the New England Mountain Biking Association.
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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 taking in the March thaw last weekend at the beautiful Dunstable Rural Land Trust Wildlife Refuge.
#OurMassLandTrusts |
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Thank You for a Successful Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference!
We had an incredible turnout at the 2026 Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference, where we welcomed a record of nearly 600 people! We also hosted 34 exhibitors – more than ever before. Workshops were well attended, and we were pleased by the highly engaged audience during Dr. Pooja Sarin Tandon’s keynote talk, Nature and Health: A Pediatrician’s Perspective, which emphasized access to the outdoors is a fundamental human need that supports children’s well-being and mental health. Slides from the keynote address are now available on our conference page. Recordings of pre-conference sponsor presentations, Dr. Tandon's keynote presentation and nine in-person conference sessions will be available on the conference portal within the next three weeks.
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| Excellence in Conservation Award Honors Pawtucket Farm Wildlife Sanctuary
Congratulations to Lowell Parks & Conservation Trust, Mass Audubon, and Mill City Grows for receiving the second annual Excellence in Conservation Award, presented at the 2026 Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference. The creation of Pawtucket Farm Wildlife Sanctuary is a standout example of collaborative conservation. The project has the potential to transform how nature is accessed and experienced in the city, particularly for more than 3,000 residents within a 10-minute walk of the property. Jane Calvin (Lowell Parks and Conservation Trust), Renata Pomponi (Mass Audubon), and Ali Jacobs (Mill City Grows), will be hosting a tour of the farm in June; additional details are provided below.
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Jane Calvin (Lowell Parks & Conservation Trust) and partners from Mill City Grows and Mass Audubon pictured with Robb Johnson (MLTC) and the 2026 Excellence in Conservation Award. |
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| AVLT Quarterly Networking Zoom Tuesday March 24, 4:00 - 5:00 pm via Zoom
This call is a forum for anyone involved in running an All-Volunteer Land Trust to learn from each other how to tackle their unique challenges. The focus will be "Liability Considerations and Risk". It's a broad topic, and attendees' questions and experiences will mold the discussion. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking program, this call will not be recorded. Newcomers welcome! Free, but registration required. |
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NEW! Pathways to Conservation Excellence Grant Program
Accepting applications starting Monday March 30 Application deadline: Friday May 8
With support from an anonymous donor, the Land Trust Alliance, in partnership with the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition, is offering grants to Massachusetts land trusts to strengthen core operations, enhance risk management practices, and prepare for accreditation. Eligible organizations may apply for grants ranging from $10,000 to $15,000. |
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NEW! ECCN Eliminating Overwhelm Lunch & Learn Friday April 3, 12:00 -1:00 pm via Zoom
The Early Conservation Career Network welcomes anyone from the MTLC conservation community to join a virtual self-care lunch & learn focused on mindfulness and stress management for conservationists. The session will be facilitated by Dominique Daye Hunter—an Afro-Indigenous (Yesáh) storyteller, speaker, author, and environmental and social justice advocate—who weaves mindfulness and healing into her work. The program will include guided mindfulness, storytelling-based insights on preventing burnout and managing stress, and time for Q&A. Free but space is limited.
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| Development Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday April 8, 1:00 - 2:00 pm via Zoom
Open to anyone with development responsibilities. On this call we'll discuss whether the return is worth the investment of time spent developing and styling communications. 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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| Stewardship Quarterly Networking Zoom Thursday April 9, 2:00 - 3:00 pm via Zoom
The focus of this call will be "Stewardship Interactions Between Land Trusts and Municipalities". 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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NEW! Small Staffed Land Trusts Quarterly Networking Zoom Thursday April 23, 1:00 - 2:00 pm via Zoom
This networking group is open to anyone with responsibilities of running or working in a small staffed land trust. This time we'll discuss ideas garnered from the 2026 Mass. Land Conservation Conference, and brainstorm ideas about how to implement them. Even if you didn't attend, bring ideas and get peer input as to how to proceed. 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! 2026 Land Protection Tools & Techniques Course
Info session: Thursday April 30, 3:00 - 4:00 pm. Register. Application deadline: Friday May 15 In-person intro meeting: Sunday September 13, 10:00 am - 3:30 pm, Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, Easthampton MA Online sessions: Thursdays September 17 - November 5, 4:00 - 6:00 pm In-person practicum: Friday November 13 - Sunday November 15, Wildlands Trust Stewardship Training Center, Plymouth MA
This 10-week course (8-weeks online and 2 in-person gatherings) is targeted toward anyone at any career level (including upper-level college students) interested in learning the nuts and bolts of land conservation transactions for professional application to advance their careers, grow the conservation workforce, and increase the pace of conservation across the Commonwealth. Land conservation professionals employ a combination of skills that are not bundled into any conventional course of study. A goal of this course is to provide participants the skills, tools and understanding of land protection to better equip them for a career in land protection. Limited to 25 participants through a competitive application process. Learn more.
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NEW! Land Trust Finance Quarterly Networking Zoom Thursday May 7, 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 approaches for project budgeting, including approaches for calculating fringe and indirect rates. 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 advance registration required.
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NEW! Agriculture Quarterly Networking Zoom Wednesday May 13, 2:00 - 3:00 pm via Zoom
This popular discussion group is intended as a forum for land conservation staff and Board members who are interested in preservation and viability of agricultural lands. It provides a forum to share experience and learn from peers. In this call we'll discuss how to incorporate farm viability considerations into Private APRs and farm-friendly CRs. Part of MLTC's Stronger Together networking series, this call will not be recorded. Newcomers welcome! Free, but registration required.
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| Field Trip to Pawtucket Farm Wildlife Sanctuary: An Urban Collaboration Success
Friday June 5, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, in-person, Lowell MA
Join Jane Calvin (Lowell Parks and Conservation Trust), Renata Pomponi (Mass Audubon), and Ali Jacobs (Mill City Grows) on a tour of the Sanctuary to learn how this partnership is growing food and community. These 20 protected acres within a 10-minute walk of 3000+ people are now home to community gardens and farm fields, trails (including an all-persons trail), with an outdoor pavilion/classroom, barn and food forest coming soon. PFWS was presented the Excellence in Conservation Award by MLTC at the recent Mass. Land Conservation Conference.
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NEW! June 2026 Conservation Partners Meeting
Friday June 12, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, with optional lunch to follow. In-person at Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center, 3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester 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 this month’s featured topic: An update on recent legal cases involving land conservation. A detailed agenda will be sent in advance to all registrants. With Executive Director Robb Johnson retiring in June, we invite you to stay afterward for a light lunch and a celebration of his work and accomplishments. Only register if attending on Zoom.
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NEW! Share Your Volunteer Opportunities
MLTC's new Volunteer Board allows you to spread information about a volunteer opportunity at your land trust or land conservation organization. Use this form and set the choice to ‘volunteer’ to post it. 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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Your Support, Doubled!
If you’ve benefited from our programs or online resources, please consider making a gift to support our work. Members of our Board and Advisory Council have generously offered to match every gift -- doubling your impact! |
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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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Environmental Bond Bill
Every five years or so, the legislature passes a bond bill to authorize bonding for future capital spending on a wide range of state programs essential to land conservation and other environmental programs. A number of policy measures are typically attached and become law when the bond bill is enacted. MLTC continues to work with coalition partners to advocate for passage of the strongest possible Bond Bill to support essential programs in years to come. The Senate Ways and Means Committee is expected to release its markup of the Governor’s version of the bill (S.2542, An Act to build resilience for Massachusetts communities) by early April, with debate and passage by the full Senate soon to follow. Next the House will take up the bill and pass its own version, with any differences to be subsequently resolved in a conference committee in coming months. MLTC is specifically advocating for an amendment that would require municipalities to hold a public hearing before waiving their right of first refusal when notified that properties enrolled in Ch. 61, Ch. 61A or Ch. 61B face conversion to a non-conservation use.
FY27 State Capital Budget
While the annual state operating budget covers most staff and annual operating expenditures of the state government, the capital budget is where most funding for land acquisition is set. Much of this funding comes from bonding authorized under the Environmental Bond Bill. Last year the Healey-Driscoll Administration issued a two-year capital investment plan covering both FY26 and FY27, so numbers for the coming year were actually set last year. FY26 and FY27 allocations can be seen here. Toggling to "View by Plan Item" shows significant reductions in some lines, due in large part to a decrease in federal funding support. Funding for EEA Agency Land Protection Programs is budgeted to drop from $23.3 million this year to $11.4 million next year; EEA Community Investment Grant Programs (including LAND, PARC and Drinking Water Protection) are forecast to drop from $28.3 million to $25.75 million; and EEA Land Protection Grant Programs (available to both municipalities and nonprofits) are slated to drop from $13.3 million to $4.25 million. It should be noted that EEA has some discretion to adjust spending across these lines to respond to areas of greatest need. At MLTC’s February 27 Conservation Partners Meeting, state officials noted there are efforts underway to identify additional funding that might bring FY27 numbers closer to those from FY26. The variability in capital spending from year to year is one argument for passing a law to create a dedicated funding source for land and nature, as described in the next item.
March 23 Hearing on Nature for Massachusetts
While legislative action on the Nature for All Bill (H.901/S.2571) is still pending, the legislature’s Special Joint Committee on Initiative Petitions will hold a hearing on the proposed ballot measure on Monday, March 23 at 11:00 am. The hearing will be held in Statehouse Room A-1, and virtually. Those wishing to testify must register by noon on Friday, March 20. See details here. If passed, this law would dedicate an estimated $100 million per year from existing state sales tax revenues to conservation, restoration and improvement of lands and waters to benefit nature and people. If the Legislature fails to pass the measure by the end of June, proponents must submit 12,429 new certified signatures by July 1 to place the matter on the November 2026 ballot. To learn how you can support this effort, see the Nature of Massachusetts website.
Survey: Your Feedback of the Model Conservation Restriction Share Your Feedback by Tuesday March 31
A working group of experienced conservation and legal practitioners is working with EEA throughout 2026 to update the state’s model Conservation Restriction. The broader conservation community is invited to provide input via this survey. Overdue Open Space Act (“PLPA”) Regulations Still Pending
MLTC continues to advocate for effective implementation of An Act Preserving Open Space in the Commonwealth (the "Open Space Act", formerly known as PLPA), which took effect in February 2023. Under the law implementing regulations were supposed to be promulgated by August 2024, but despite three rounds of public comment on draft regulations wrapping up in spring 2025, they have not yet been issued. On March 6, Dot McGlincy from MACC and Robb Johnson from MLTC were joined by Senator Jamie Eldridge in a meeting with Undersecretary Stephanie Cooper and other EEA staff, where we underlined the public interest in timely promulgation of the regulations. Though officials were unable to commit to a precise timeline, they assured us the regulations would be in full force before bill-filing for the next legislative session begins in December 2026.
Revised Deer Regulations, and Proposed Changes to Hunting Law
At its meeting on March 18, the State Fisheries and Wildlife Board voted in favor of revisions to certain existing deer regulations at 321 CMR 2.04 and 3.02. Public hearings on the regulatory changes, which are summarized here, were held in January. The Board also voted to recommend amending state hunting laws to repeal the outright prohibition on Sunday hunting, remove the special permit requirement for crossbow hunting, and revise setback requirements related to archery and falconry. On March 19th, Governor Healey announced support for changing state laws related to Sunday hunting, crossbow hunting and certain setbacks. If such legislation is passed by the state legislature, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife would proceed to develop regulations to implement those changes. Learn more.
EEA Releases 2025 Massachusetts Climate Report Card
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) has released the 2025 Massachusetts Climate Report Card. This annual state‑issued assessment evaluates how well Massachusetts is progressing toward its climate goals — specifically reducing greenhouse gas emissions, building climate resilience, advancing clean energy, and addressing environmental justice.
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$1.4M in Grants to Restore Rivers and Wetlands Across 12 Communities
On February 25, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced over $1.4 million in grants for river and wetland restoration. Provided by the Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Ecological Restoration (DER), the funding supports twelve projects — including eight through DER’s Priority Projects Program and one via the Culvert Replacement Training Site Initiative. These efforts will enhance climate resilience, reduce flood risks, improve water quality and public safety, and restore critical wildlife habitat. Read more.
$835K in Grants Awarded to Restore Buzzards Bay Habitat
On March 6, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $834,861 in grants to protect and restore habitats in the Buzzards Bay watershed. The five grants, awarded by the Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program through the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management, are funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Read more.
Massachusetts Agriculture Day Celebrated with $3.3 Million in Grants to Support Local Farmers
On March 11, Governor Maura Healey proclaimed Massachusetts Agriculture Day to honor the state’s farming heritage and the vital role of agriculture in communities. Farmers from across the state showcased their products at the State House and met with lawmakers, while the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced more than $3.3 million in grants through three Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) programs to support local agriculture. Read more.
National Land Trust Census Open through Tuesday March 31
The National Land Trust Census is a snapshot of the conservation work carried out by land trusts across the United States. Conducted every five years by the Land Trust Alliance, it is the nation’s longest-running survey of private land protection, offering both a benchmark and a window into the collective impact of land trusts on people, communities, and the natural places we cherish. It provides an opportunity to reflect, measure progress, and celebrate how far the land trust movement has come. By participating, you help tell the story of land conservation in America. Complete the census.
Public Hearing: Massachusetts Prohibited Plant List Friday April 29, 1:00 - 2:00 pm, via Zoom
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) will hold a virtual public hearing to discuss proposed updates to the state’s Prohibited Plant List. MDAR is required to hold a public hearing before restricting the delivery, import, sale, or propagation of certain plants within the Commonwealth. This session will cover proposed additions to the list, Japanese angelica tree (Aralia elata) and sapphire berry/Asiatic sweetleaf (Symplocos paniculata). Stakeholders and members of the public are encouraged to attend and provide input. Learn more. Zoom link.
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NEW! Community Briefing Lawsuit Addressing the EPA Endangerment Finding Repeal Friday March 20, 12:00 - 1:00 pm via Zoom
Join the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office for a virtual briefing on its lawsuit to stop the federal repeal of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Endangerment Finding. Staff will cover the case, goals, timeline, and potential impacts on Massachusetts and across the country. |
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| From Timber to Tomorrow: Old Challenges, New Pressures, Changing Paradigms Tuesday March 24 - Tuesday April 28, 12:00 - 1:00 pm via Zoom
The Yale Forest Forum started a webinar series in January examining forestry’s shift since the 1970s, from production - or conservation-focused practices to multifunctional landscapes emphasizing ecological resilience and diverse social values. Discussions have covered how people and forests shape each other—and what that means for the next fifty years of forestry. Attend one, some, or all of the remaining sessions. |
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NEW! 2026 Invasive Species & Climate Change Symposium Tuesday March 24 - Wednesday March 25, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm via Zoom
The Northeast RISCC Management Network (NE RISCC) is hosting its annual free, virtual symposium. This event brings together invasive species practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and other interested participants to explore the challenges and solutions of managing invasive species in a changing climate. |
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| APR Listening Sessions Tuesday March 24 - Monday March 30, times and locations vary, mix of in-person and virtual meetings
Throughout March, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) will host five opportunities for current or prospective APR Landowners to provide feedback about the APR Program. During the sessions, MDAR will speak about policies, procedures, regulations, guidance, and efforts to improve and modernize the APR program after input from the 2023 listening sessions. Some questions submitted in the RSVP form will be addressed before opening the session to the comment period. Learn more.
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NEW! Berkshire Stream Smart Training Wednesday March 25, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, in-person, Berkshire Community College, Pittsfield MA
The Clean, Cold & Connected Partnership of Berkshire County will host a one-day Stream Smart Training for individuals interested in the planning, design, and construction of road-stream crossings that support fish and wildlife movement and enhance habitat connectivity. The training will feature a series of morning presentations, followed by an optional afternoon site visit offering hands-on learning opportunities in the field.
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NEW! Harnessing Communications to Educate and Engage Community Trail Volunteers Thursday March 26, 10:00 - 11:00 am via Zoom American Trails is hosting a webinar on creating a basic communications plan, including prioritizing social media platforms, developing newsletters and blogs, and identifying content that attracts volunteers and engagement. |
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NEW! Lunch & Learn: Intro to the New EOEEA/DCS Conservation Restriction Tracking System Thursday April 9, 12:00 - 1:00 pm via Zoom
The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions is hosting a lunch & learn where Mike Gendron, Open Space Act Coordinator at EEA, will present the new Conservation Restriction Tracking System (CRTS). CRTS is a digital platform designed to streamline and modernize how Conservation Restrictions (CRs) are submitted and reviewed by the EEA Division of Conservation Services (EEA-DCS). It allows the public to submit CRs, track their progress, and participate in the review process. Learn more.
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NEW! Loving and Managing Your Forest: A Long-Term Relationship Thursday April 9, 6:30 - 8:00 pm via Zoom
The Woodlands Partnership of Northwest Massachusetts will host a webinar with author and speaker Ethan Tapper. Drawing on his hands-on work at Bear Island Forest, Tapper will discuss sustainable forest management, the evolution of forestry from colonial and industrial eras, and today’s shift toward working with ecological processes in a changing climate. |
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NEW! Worcester County Climate Summit Saturday April 11, 9:30 - 3:00 pm, in-person, Colonial Hall Gardner MA
Mass Audubon and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation invite climate activists and environmental leaders from across Worcester County to connect and collaborate. This event will focus on building county-wide capacity for climate action and marks the first step toward creating a Worcester County Climate Collaborative—an initiative to strengthen resilience, restore natural habitats, and mobilize diverse communities. Learn more.
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| Land Trust Alliance Advocacy Days Monday April 13 - Thursday April 16, in-person, Washington DC
The mission of the Land Trust Alliance’s annual Advocacy Days is to advocate and advance important land trust policy priorities. As part of the event, the Alliance will provide land trust leaders with advocacy training, and help facilitate relationships with key legislators to build the political influence of the land trust community. Staff, board members and volunteers of Alliance member land trusts are invited to participate in this annual four-day advocacy event to make a significant difference in land conservation.
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NEW! 2026 Cape Coastal Conference Monday April 13 (9:00 am - 5:00 pm) - Tuesday April 14 (9:00 - 11:00 am), in-person, Margaritaville Resort, Hyannis MA
The Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is hosting a two-day event bringing together local officials, municipal staff, boards and committees, tribal leaders, environmental organizations, scientists, and consultants. Participants will explore solutions for resilient coastlines, with a focus on habitat restoration, flood adaptation, and sustainable community planning. Learn more.
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NEW! Lunch & Learn: The Rising Tide of Aquatic Plant Invasions in Massachusetts Freshwaters Thursday April 16, 12:00 - 1:00 pm, via Zoom
The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions is hosting a Lunch & Learn featuring David Wong, a MassDEP Environmental Analyst. Climate change is shifting ecological boundaries in freshwater systems, with Massachusetts waters increasingly invaded by tropical and subtropical plants. This provides clear regional evidence that warming is driving the poleward expansion of warmwater invasive species. Learn more.
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NEW! Ephemerals Woods Walk Saturday April 25, 1:00 - 3:00 pm, in-person, Field Farm Reservation, Williamstown MA
Women on the Land is hosting a spring ephemerals walk at Field Farm, a mix of fields and hardwood forests over limestone bedrock in Berkshire County. Botanist and Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Service Forester, Peter Grima, will guide participants in exploring these short-lived blooms, highlighting their ecology, identification, and seasonal beauty. Attendees will see firsthand plants that appear briefly each spring and vanish until next year. The walk will cover 2-3 miles on existing trails over more or less level terrain.
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NEW! Herring Run Field Trip Monday April 27, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, in-person, Jenney Pond & Town Brook, Plymouth MA
Join the Massachusetts Ecosystem Climate Adaptation Network (Mass ECAN), the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program, Division of Ecological Restoration, and local partners, for a unique opportunity to witness a herring run. Learn how climate change is affecting herring populations and how restoration strategies—such as dam removals and channel modifications—are helping to revive their habitats. Following the event, there will be an optional picnic and networking session
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NEW! Lunch & Learn: Environmental Law Update: Need to Know Developments Thursday May 14, 12:00 - 1:00 pm via Zoom
The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) is hosting a Lunch & Learn featuring Gregor McGregor, former MACC Director and environmental attorney at McGregor Law Group, PC. He will provide an overview of environmental policy changes from the past year, drawing on experience from one of New England’s oldest environmental law firms. Learn more.
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For more information on the following grants and more, please visit our Grants Database. |
ECO One Stop Deadline Extended Application deadline: Friday March 27, 12:00 pm
The FY27 ECO One Stop application deadline has been extended. Due to ongoing slowness with the grants management software (GMS), applicants are encouraged to submit early. The extension applies to all ECO One Stop programs. ECO One Stop Grants Catalogue. Contact EcoOneStop@mass.gov with questions.
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NEW! General Operating Support Grants
Application deadline: Friday March 20, 5:00 pm
The National Grid Foundation is offering general operating support to nonprofit organizations, with grants of up to $250,000 to support core organizational capacity and day-to-day operations, including staffing, program delivery, and essential administrative costs. Priority is given to organizations advancing community resilience, clean energy access, and equitable outcomes. Learn more.
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NEW! Cape Cod Land Acquisition Grants
Application deadline: Thursday March 26
The Cape Cod Foundation is offering grants of up to $50,000 through the Priscilla Alden Sears Memorial Fund to support the acquisition of priority conservation parcels across Cape Cod. These funds aim to permanently protect open space, wildlife habitat, and ecologically significant lands. Parcels must be dedicated entirely to conservation, and applicants must demonstrate a plan to complete acquisition within 18 months of the award. Learn more.
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| Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Action Grants Application deadline extended: Friday March 27, 12:00 pm (originally March 20)
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs is offering MVP Action Grants to implement priority climate adaptation and resilience projects identified in an approved Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness plan. Eligible MVP-designated municipalities may fund projects addressing flooding, extreme heat, and severe weather using climate data and community-identified actions. Awards up to $3,000,000 for single-municipality projects and up to $5,000,000 for regional projects. Learn more.
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NEW! Coastal Resilience Grants
Application deadline extended: Friday March 27, 12:00 pm (originally March 20)
The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management is seeking proposals for innovative local and regional projects that address coastal flooding, erosion, and sea level rise. Awards of up to $2 million are available to coastal municipalities in Massachusetts, Tribal Governments, and nonprofit organizations. Eligible activities include vulnerability assessments, public engagement, infrastructure retrofits or relocations, shoreline restoration, and resilience planning. Learn more.
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NEW! Coastal Habitat & Water Quality Grants
Application deadline extended: Friday March 27, 12:00 pm (originally March 20)
The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management is offering grants of up to $250,000 for projects that reduce stormwater pollution, advance green infrastructure, and restore coastal habitats.Eligible applicants include coastal watershed municipalities, Tribes, nonprofit organizations, regional planning agencies, and stormwater collaboratives. Learn more.
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NEW! Dam Removal Early Phase Technical Assistance Application deadline: Friday March 27, 11:59 pm
The Massachusetts Rivers Alliance is offering early-phase planning support to initiate dam removal projects in Massachusetts. Three projects will receive up to $20,000 in no-cost technical assistance for site reconnaissance, engineering review, project scoping, and development of a dam removal “starter kit” to guide next steps. This program supports dam removal only (not repair or fish passage alternatives). |
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NEW! Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Application deadline: Tuesday March 31
The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative supports organizations who work and recreate outdoors, especially those using OHVs for activities like riding, camping, hunting, and fishing. Its mission is to promote safe, responsible OHV use, educate the public on land use and conservation, and help protect sustainable access to public lands. Learn more.
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NEW! Regional Restoration Partnerships Program
Application deadline: Friday April 3
The Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration is accepting applications for its Regional Restoration Partnerships Program. The program supports regional collaboratives working to advance river and wetland restoration and nature-based climate resiliency projects across Massachusetts. Selected partnerships receive designation and associated FY2027 funding. Learn more.
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NEW! Southeast New England Watershed Implementation Grants
LOI deadline: Friday April 3, 4:00 pm
Restore America’s Estuaries is offering Southeast New England Watershed Implementation Grants of up to $50,000 to fund partnerships that restore clean water, healthy ecosystems, and resilient communities in southeastern Massachusetts. Projects may include stormwater management, habitat restoration, green infrastructure, and watershed protection. Learn more.
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| Drinking Water Supply Protection Grants Application deadline: Monday April 13
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ (EEA) Drinking Water Supply Protection Grants provide financial assistance to municipalities, municipal water suppliers and to water and fire districts for the purchase of land in DEP approved drinking water supply protection areas, or land in estimated protection areas of identified and planned future water supply wells or reservoirs. Grants of up to 60% of project costs for a maximum of $350,000 are available. Applications must be submitted online through the new EEA Grants Management System. Please note you will need to create an online account prior to submitting an application. Learn more.
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| Landscape Partnership Grants Application deadline: Thursday April 23, 3:00 pm
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs is awarding Landscape Partnership Grants to support protection of large blocks of conservation land across Massachusetts. Eligible applicants include local, state, and federal government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Awards are available up to $1,250,000 with a 50% match. Learn more.
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| Land Conservation Assistance Grants Application deadline: Thursday April 30
These state grants offer 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. |
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NEW! LAND and PARC Grant Programs Virtual info session: Wednesday May 6, 2:00 pm via MS teams In-person info session: Thursday May 7, 11:00 am, DFW Field Headquarters, Westborough Application deadline: Thursday July 9, 11:49 pm
The Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs' Division of Conservation Services is seeking applications to the FY 2027 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. It is strongly recommended that people attend the in-person info session in Westborough. Email Melissa Cryan at melissa.cryan@mass.gov to RSVP for either session if you are interested in applying for a PARC grant. Email Vanessa Farny at vanessa.farny@mass.gov to RSVP for either session if you are interested in applying for a LAND grant.
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NEW! Conservation Partnership Grant Program Info session: Wednesday May 13, 2:00 pm via MS Teams
Application deadline: Monday July 13, 11:59 pm
The Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs' Division of Conservation Services is awarding Conservation Partnership grants to 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. Please contact Darya Mattes at darya.mattes@mass.gov to RSVP to the info session or if you have questions
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| Riparian Zone Restoration Program
rolling
The Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs has launched the Riparian Zone Restoration Program to restore under-vegetated riparian corridors throughout Massachusetts, prioritizing sites with permanently protected land, cold-water fisheries, impervious surfaces, flood-storage potential, or extreme-heat conditions. The program covers some or all costs of restoration work, including plant materials, wildlife protection, permitting, and installation and maintenance. If you have a potential project site, please contact Hilary Dimino at Hilary.M.Dimino@mass.gov.
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| Massachusetts Nonprofit Collaboration Fund rolling
MassCollab has launched their Massachusetts Nonprofit Collaboration Fund, an initiative to strengthen the health, sustainability, and impact of the state’s nonprofit sector. The fund will provide nonprofits with funding, expert guidance, and practical tools to explore and implement long-term partnerships—such as joint programs, shared services, and mergers. Email Jennifer Segel at Jennie@masscollab.org with inquiries.
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| Seed Grants
rolling The Grassroots Fund is awarding Seed 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! Tending Your Forest: A Guide to Ecological Forest Stewardship
Written by Paul Catanzaro of UMass Amherst/Masswoods and Anthony D’Amato of University of Vermont, Tending Your Forest, released on March 17, guides landowners in achieving their goals and sustaining public benefits through the principles of ecological forestry. |
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| NEW! Connecticut Lakes Headwaters: Carbon vs. Cutting Northern Woodlands recently published an article exploring the Connecticut River Headwaters Forest—an issue drawing significant attention in New Hampshire and reflecting the rapid changes unfolding across the region. |
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NEW! Carbon Dioxide Removal Study Draft
The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) commissioned the Rocky Mountain Institute to study carbon dioxide removal methods. The draft report examines forest-based approaches such as mass timber construction, biomass burial, biochar, and related strategies. |
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NEW! Northeast Forest Network Member Survey Response deadline: Friday May 8
The Northeast Forest Network (NFN) is conducting a survey to gather input on the challenges organizations are facing in conserving forests within their states. These insights will play an important role in shaping the Network’s roundtable discussion in June. |
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NEW! UMass Invasive Plant Survey Response deadline: Friday March 20
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and the University of Maryland, College Park are studying how and when invasive plant control methods are used, and whether climate-driven shifts in plant timing have changed these practices. Natural resource managers working with invasive plants are encouraged to take the survey. |
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NEW! The Great River Herring Count
Each spring on Cape Cod, thousands of river herring migrate from the ocean into freshwater to spawn. To show how run sizes are estimated from limited data, the Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) created an interactive educational application called The Great River Herring Count. |
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Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities |
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