Conservation

The Western MA Chapter's territory includes some of the finest scenery in the state:

• The Appalachian Trail corridor
• The New England Trail
• The Housatonic and Westfield River watersheds, and
• The New England Mountains, including the Greylock Massif, Berkshire Hills, Hoosac and Holyoke ranges, and much of the Taconics.

But with these wondrous blessings comes the responsibility to steward it thoughtfully.

WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW

News and Events

$2.1 Million in Grants Awarded tp Support Ecological Restoration Projects

[17‑Mar‑2025] The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded $2.1 million in grants to support 17 projects focused on restoring rivers and wetlands throughout MA. These projects, funded by the Department of Fish and Game's Division of Ecological Restoration, will help strengthen resilience to climate change, reduce flood risks, improve water quality and public safety, and restore wildlife habitat.

DCR Launches Pilot Program to Enhance Outdoor Recreation

[13‑Mar‑2025] The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has launched a new pilot program aimed at enhancing outdoor recreation throughout the state. The goal is to develop trail systems that protect natural and cultural resources, can withstand a changing climate, require little maintenance, and enhance visitors' outdoor experiences.

$3 Million in Grants Awarded to Tackle Climate Change

[07‑Mar‑2025] $3 million in grants has been awarded to assist local communities in preparing for climate change. Twenty three municipalities, including 6 in western MA, and three regional groups will benefit. The goal is to provide financial support and resources so that communities can create actionable strategies to address climate challenges. VIEW ALL NEWS AND EVENTS VIEW ALL REGULATIONS

Join Us!

AMC is actively engaged in conservation and research from Maine to Virginia, helping to ensure the future enjoyment of the outdoors for all. Our approach to conservation combines science, advocacy, and on-the-ground protection of land and trails.

If you'd like to work with us to conserve our natural treasures, please consider joining the Conservation Committee. We need volunteers who can help with:

• Reporting: Investigate and write stories on conservation-related matters in western Massachuetts; monitor current events and inform about upcoming activities.
• Event Planning: Help plan and/or partipate in events, such as webinars, tabling, speaking engagements, demonstrations, conservation activities, etc.
• Research: Keep up with legistative matters – such as pending bills – and summarize issues for the general public.
• Advocacy: Work with decision makers, federal and state agencies, and a wide range of non-governmental partners to protect the outdoors.
• Trail Stewardship: Contribute time and energy to our A.T. Management and NET Management trail committees (volunteer positions include natural heritage and corridor monitors, trail maintainers, committee officers, and coordinators)

Even a small amount of volunteer time each month can go a long way!