Resources - Berkshire Environmental Action Team

Berkshire County Sites	Berkshire Rivers Sites	Pioneer Valley Sites	Other Berkshire County Neighbors	Massachusetts Sites	The Northeast	National Sites
International Sites	Stop Fracked Gas	Forest Related Sites	Wildlife and Road Ecology Sites	Wildlife Tracking Sites	Zero Waste	Massachusetts Laws & Regulations

Berkshire County Sites return to top of page
Alford Land Trust	The Alford Land Trust, working in cooperation with town residents, officials and boards, seeks to protect Alford’s significant natural, agricultural and scenic resources. The Trust aims to promote and encourage land stewardship for the benefit of the environment, the economy and future generations by encouraging landowners to consider conveying conservation restrictions to the Trust.
Appalachian Mountain Club Berkshire Chapter	The Appalachian Mountain Club is a leading organization in outdoor recreation, conservation, and education in the northeastern USA. The Berkshire Chapter alone has over 3400 members throughout Western Massachusetts. We maintain trails and lead hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, and other trips... and you don't need to be a member to participate.
Becket Land Trust	The Becket Land Trust is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization which owns and operates the Historic Quarry and Forest. It was founded by a group of citizens concerned about protecting the Town of Becket's rural character, natural resources and ecologically sensitive areas. The Historic Quarry and Forest was the result of an extraordinary community fund-raising campaign to save a 300+ acre parcel of primarily wooded land from industrial development. To prevent detrimental impact on the site and the community, local citizens donated money to enable the Becket Land Trust to purchase the property and open the site to the public for recreational enjoyment.
BerkShares	BerkShares are a local currency designed for use in the Southern Berkshire region of Massachusetts with issue by BerkShares, Inc., a non-profit organization working in collaboration with the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce, participating local banks, local businesses, and local non-profit organizations.
Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT)	BEAT is dedicated to protecting the environment of Berkshire County and beyond.. As an action oriented environmental organization, we believe that an informed citizenry is the environment’s best protection. Our mission includes reaching out to the community by helping people to understand the value of our environmental assets, the laws designed to protect those assets, and the actions people can take to help protect their environment.
Berkshire Grown	Berkshire Grown envisions a community where healthy farms define the open landscape, where a wide diversity of fresh, seasonal food and flowers continue to be readily available to everyone, and where we celebrate our agricultural bounty by buying from our neighboring family farms and savoring their distinctive Berkshire harvest.
BerkshireHiking.com	A great website to find places to hike, camp, bike, kayak, view the night sky, take a scenic drive, or even fly over.
Berkshire Wildlife Trackers	Berkshire Wildlife Tracking monitors areas in and around the Berkshires for sign of wildlife habitat usage. BWT's wildlife habitat monitors are trained by the Keeping Track® program in Vermont that teaches volunteers to observe, interpret, record, and monitor evidence of wildlife habitat in their communities. This monitoring data will focus on wide ranging mammals to provide a vital indicator of the ecological health of the Berkshire landscape as a whole.
Berkshire Conservation District	The Berkshire Conservation District serves the community in the preservation of its natural resources. Authorized by State Statute, the District was created to coordinate state and federal conservation programs at the local level. The District provides technical assistance and education on soil, water, and related natural resources. Municipalities, farmers, and landowners use this information to make proper land use decisions. The Berkshire Conservation District is a not for profit environmental educational organization working side-by-side with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) to protect soil and water quality in Berkshire County. Proceeds from our sales are crucial to the continuation of our programs! The programs funded by our sales include conservation planning assistance on public and private lands, soil survey reports, conservation tree seedling sales, bulb sales, training workshops, technical assistance, conservation education programs like the Envirothon, and environmental education scholarships & internships to BCC & UMass students.
Berkshire Museum	Fourteen galleries, an aquarium, a 291 seat fully equipped, air conditioned theater, classrooms and a museum store make up the Berkshire Museum. The mission of the Berkshire Museum is to enrich, inspire and educate through interactions with the arts, history and the natural world.
Berkshire Natural Resources Council	Berkshire Natural Resources Council is a land conservation and environmental advocacy group working throughout the Berkshires in Massachusetts to preserve threatened lands. The Council places special emphasis on protecting Berkshire's"working landscape" - the great farms, forests, streams and mountains which define our region's distinct character and provide multiple economic, recreational and scenic benefits to the public.
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission	The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission is the official area-wide planning agency in the Berkshire region, with comprehensive planning responsibilities which include assisting community and regional land use, transportation, economic development and environmental planning.
Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuaries of Mass Audubon	Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary on Holmes Road in Pittsfield, Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary on West Mountain Road in Lenox, and Lime Kiln Farm on Silver Street in Sheffield.
Center for Ecological Technology	Since 1976, the Center for Ecological Technology (CET), a non-profit (501c3) organization, engages in work that demonstrates and promotes practical, affordable solutions to the environmental challenges encountered in our daily activities. CET’s mission is "to research, develop, demonstrate and promote those technologies which have the least disruptive impact on the natural ecology of the Earth." From offices in Pittsfield, Northampton and Springfield, CET finds sustainable solutions to complex issues in order to benefit our environment, health, economy, and community.
Center for Environmental Studies (CES) at Williams College	Founded in 1967, the Center for Environmental Studies (CES) at Williams College is dedicated to the study of the intricate relationship between humans and their environments, with an eye towards learning how to move towards the future in a savvy yet responsible fashion.
Climate Crisis Coalition	The Climate Crisis Coalition seeks to broaden the circle of individuals, organizations and constituencies engaged in the global warming issue, to link it with other issues and to provide a structure to forge a common agenda and advance action plans with a united front.
Co-Act	Community Organizing for Action - Our mission is to develop and empower sustainable communities through networking, sharing knowledge, and co-acting with our neighbors.
Egremont Land Trust	The Egremont Land Trust is an organization of like-minded individuals dedicated to the preservation of the natural beauty and the environment of North and South Egremont. We invite you to join with us in this endeavor.
Freecycle -	The Freecycle Network™ is made up of 4,805 groups with 6,707,000 members across the globe.(2009) It's a grassroots and entirely nonprofit movement of people who are giving (& getting) stuff for free in their own towns. It's all about reuse and keeping good stuff out of landfills. Each local group is moderated by a local volunteer (them's good people). Membership is free.
Great Barrington Land Conservancy	The Great Barrington Land Conservancy is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit dedicated to the preservation of the community's natural resources and distinctive character. Through promotion and fund-raising endeavors, GBLC enables the dedication of open space to agricultural, recreational, and scenic purposes through acquisitions, conservation easements, and agricultural preservation restrictions.
GreenAgers	Greenagers is a community force, giving us the most important resource we need to rebuild our world: each other. GreenAgers is an organization run by teens for teens. We act as a networking agent for the Green community, linking together existing school environmental teams, youth organizations, grassroots organizations, and projects, helping new ones get started, and creating projects of our own to fill unaddressed niches in the grassroots movement.
Green Berkshires	Green Berkshires, Inc. is dedicated to protecting farmland, mountains, and wilderness in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, and throughout northeastern United States. Current projects include protecting Greylock Glen at the base of Mount Greylock from inappropriate development, safeguarding Berkshire ridgelines from wind power plant industrialization, and preserving the historic 780-acre Yale Farm in northwestern Connecticut from plans for a golf course and luxury housing.
Hancock Shaker Village	Hancock Shaker Village, Inc., is a private, not-for-profit educational organization that preserves and presents to the public the Shakers' legacy at their community in Hancock, Massachusetts.
Hilltown Sustainability Group	Centered at the Old Creamery in Cummington on Route 9 (with the cow on the roof). The website includes a calendar of great events.
Hoffman Bird Club	The Hoffmann Bird Club was established in 1940 with a mission of promoting the study of birds in Berkshire County. The club was founded under the auspices of the Berkshire Museum. and named in honor of Ralph Hoffmann a naturalist who was born in Berkshire County.
The Laurel Hill Association (no link)	The Laurel Hill Association is the oldest continuously operating village improvement society in the United States. Laurel Hill has been responsible for the establishment and continuing stewardship of over 400 acres of parkland and miles of trails and pathways along the Housatonic River and throughout the hills surrounding Stockbridge, MA.
Lenox Land Trust	Recognizing the pressures on land use and also recognizing the rights of individual property owners, the Lenox Land Trust believes that it is imperative to preserve and maintain the rural New England character of Lenox and the surrounding area for present and future generations.
MassACORN	A cooperative resource network for the Westfield and Deerfield river watersheds. MassACORN's goal is to better connect you to your woods and surrounding forests of western Massachusetts. We do this by providing sources of information, maps and air photos, and opportunities to learn from other woodland owners through their questions and answers.
Mass Audubon	Mass Audubon works to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife. Together with more than 100,000 members, we care for 32,000 acres of conservation land, provide educational programs for 200,000 children and adults annually, and advocate for sound environmental policies at local, state, and federal levels.
The New Economics Institute (fromerly E.F. Schumacher Society)	The New Economics Institute (formerly the E.F. Schumacher Society) is a US organization that uniquely combines vision, theory, action, and communication to effect a transition to a new economy -- an economy that gives priority to supporting human well-being and Earth’s natural systems.
Monterey Preservation Land Trust	The mission of the Monterey Preservation Land Trust shall be the preservation of natural resources and open spaces, principally in the Town of Monterey, with particular focus on maintaining much of Monterey's remaining farmland in agricultural production, protecting waterways, ponds and lakes, and setting aside a sufficient portion of Monterey's forestland for multiple recreational activities.
The Nature Conservancy's Berkshire Taconic Landscape	Each of the three state chapters (CT,NY, & MA) of The Nature Conservancy have been working in their respective portions of the Berkshire Taconic landscape for decades. An office created in 1993 in Sheffield, Massachusetts became the base of our work when the three chapters decide to combine their efforts and create the three-state initiative in 1998. All three state chapter offices support the work of the Program, which is carried out by eight staff members on the ground.
The Nature Conservancy's Westfield River Watershed	Central and western Massachusetts contain all or part of eleven exceptionally large, intact forest areas. Each of these forests contains least one unbroken block of contiguous forested land spanning 15,000 acres or more. These areas provide important habitat for wide ranging mammals, like the black bear, mink, fisher and bobcat, and interior forest nesting birds. They also link habitat from the mid-Atlantic through the Northern Appalachians, creating safe passages for migrating animals and supporting diverse populations of many different species.
New Marlborough Land Trust	The New Marlborough Land Trust encourages and promotes the preservation of natural resources in the Town of New Marlborough to protect the Town’s unique rural character. The Land Trust works in concert with the citizens and governing bodies of New Marlborough for the benefit of the environment, our local economy, community education and future generations.
Orion Society & Orion Grassroots Network	The Orion Society's mission is to inform, inspire, and engage individuals and grassroots organizations in becoming a significant cultural force for healing nature and community. We accomplish that mission by way of our programs, websites, and gatherings of people brought together to explore the important issues of the day. The Orion Grassroots Network is the fastest-growing gathering hub of environmental and community organizations in North America, now actively supporting 1020 organizations (2/07) with several new member groups joining each week.
Richmond Land Trust	The purpose of the Richmond Land Trust shall be to help preserve important lands in the Town of Richmond and to provide guidance for planned development in harmony with the traditional rural and scenic character of the town.
Sheffield Land Trust	Not only is Sheffield important agriculturally, but ecologically it is at the heart of an area that The Nature Conservancy has identified as one of the world's Last Great Places. The three-state Berkshire Taconic Landscape is globally significant for the conservation of our natural heritage. It contains one of the largest extant contiguous forests in the Northeast and an unusually high concentration of rare species and natural communities.
Sheffield Tree Project	The mission of the Sheffield Tree Project is to work closely with community members to plan, plant and care for a beautiful and diverse population of trees in the public areas of Sheffield, Massachusetts.
Stockbridge Land Trust (no link)
Tamarack Hollow	Tamarack Hollow provides place-based natural and cultural history educational programs that inspire participants towards land stewardship of the Berkshire, Highland & Ct. River Valley regions.
The Trustees of Reservations	"To preserve, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts." - 13 reservations in the Berkshires—all of which are open to the public—including: Bartholomew's Cobble, Dry Hill, Field Farm, Goose Pond Reservation, McLennan Reservation, Mountain Meadow Preserve, Notchview, Questing, and Tyringham Cobble. The Trustees of Reservations Berkshires Regional office in Stockbridge at 413-298-3239 x3000.
Turtle Zone	On the TurtleZone website you will find information about turtles that live in the Berkshires, what you can do to help them, how to handle turtles (Or help cross the street safely), and a list of resources to learn more about these graceful, and incredible creatures. The website will be updated with any significant news regarding turtles in our area, turtle sightings, and news of turtles from around the globe.
Williamstown COOL Committee	The COOL committee is a group of volunteers from Williamstown who work to implement the town's Climate Action Plan.
Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation	The Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation is a non-profit, member-supported land trust. The Foundation has been working with the community to preserve and protect the rural New England Character and unique landscapes of the Williamstown area since 1986. We have helped to protect over 3,000 acres of our most scenic and valuable farm and forestland, both alone and through innovative partnerships with state agencies and other non-profit organizations.

Berkshire Rivers Sites return to top of page
Deerfield River Watershed Association	The Deerfield River Watershed Association is a non-profit organization with the mission to preserve, protect, and enhance the natural resources of the Deerfield River watershed in south-eastern Vermont and north-western Massachusetts
Farmington River Wild & Scenic	In August 1994, Congress added 14 miles of the Farmington River's west branch to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
Friends of the Housatonic River - (headquartered near the mouth of the river)	Preserving a unique river region in order to enjoy the beauty. From fresh to brackish water, the tidal areas of Shelton and Derby have an unrivaled blend of marine and other natural surroundings. With ocean access for boating to kayaking, fishing to bird watching, and skiing to swimming, the Friends of the Housatonic River value these activities and the efforts to continue to improve what this area has to offer.
Friends of Williams River (tributary of the Housatonic)	The mission of the Friends of Williams River is to preserve water quality in the Williams River Valley in the Berkshire Hills of Western Massachusetts. PO Box 266, West Stockbridge, Massachusetts 01266
Great Barrington Housatonic River Walk	The Great Barrington Housatonic River Walk, a project of the Great Barrington Land Conservancy, is an effort to reclaim the beauty of a "working river" abused by years of industrial waste and neglect.
Hoosic River Watershed Association	The Hoosic River Watershed Association is dedicated to the restoration, conservation, and enjoyment of the Hoosic River and its watershed, through education, research, and advocacy. We envision a watershed that is ecologically sound and adds to the quality of life of its residents.
The Housatonic River Initiative/ Housatonic Riverkeeper	HRI advocates for the Housatonic River and its floodplain, and along with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advocates for a timely and comprehensive PCB cleanup, with strong public participation in all aspects of the negotiating and decision-making process.
Housatonic River Guide (pdf)	The Housatonic River Guide is intended to assist with and inspire paddle trips on the river. The site includes launch sites, driving directions, and amazing fly-over videos from source to sound. Every effort has been made to provide clear, accurate and useful information about the river, river-oriented organizations and the communities of the Housatonic River Valley.
Housatonic Valley Association	Saving a New England Treasure from the Berkshires to Long Island Sound. HVA works to conserve the natural character and environmental health of our communities in the Housatonic River watershed by restoring and protecting our lands and waters for this and future generations.
Massachusetts Watershed Coalition	The Coalition is a network of local organizations that are committed to the protection, sound management and enhancement of Massachusetts rivers and watershed ecosystems.
Trout Unlimited	Trout Unlimited’s mission is to conserve, protect and restore North America’s trout and salmon fisheries and their watersheds. TU accomplishes this mission on local, state and national levels with an extensive and dedicated volunteer network.
Upper Housatonic Valley Natural Heritage Area	The Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area encompasses 29 communities in the hilly terrain of western Massachusetts and northwestern Connecticut. Several heritage projects include an annual October Weekend of Heritage Walks, an African-American Heritage Trail with an accompanying book, an Iron Heritage Trail brochure, and a heritage indoctrination course for local teachers.
US EPA GE/Housatonic River Site	EPA continues its large-scale commitment to addressing contamination in Pittsfield and the Housatonic River, with substantial progress being made in all phases of its comprehensive strategy: remediation, restoration, and redevelopment. Of course, all this work is being done with significant opportunities for public involvement and participation.
US EPA Surf Your Watershed - Housatonic River Watershed	EPA's website has pages on how to locate your "Watershed Address". The link to the left gets you to the results of a search for the Housatonic River. The Deerfield, Westfield, and Farmington are all part of the larger Connecticut River Watershed. The Hoosic is part of the larger Hudson River Watershed.
USGS real-time data for the East Branch of the Housatonic River at Coltsville	LOCATION.--Lat 42°28'10", long 73°11'49", Berkshire County, Hydrologic Unit 01100005, on right bank 250 ft downstream from Hubbard Avenue Bridge at Coltsville, 1.2 mi upstream from Unkamet Brook, and 2 mi northeast of Pittsfield. Prior to Nov. 8, 1994, at site 200 ft upstream. DRAINAGE AREA.--57.6 mi2
Westfield River Watershed Association	The Westfield River Watershed Association was established in 1953 to protect and improve the natural resources of the Watershed, as well as to expand recreational and other land use opportunities for people's enjoyment and for sound ecology.

Pioneer Valley Sites return to top of page
BagShare Project	Started in western Massachusetts, the end goal of The BagShare Project is to help stores transition to becoming 'disposable bag free'. Volunteers work together to produce reusable cloth bags. Baskets of these bags are kept at participating shops (and library) patrons borrow a bag if they need one. The bag is then returned to that location or another BagShare location for another to use. Community Bag Sews (sewing circles) are organized by volunteers, materials and machines are donated by individuals and local businesses.
Broad Brook Coalition	Broad Brook Coalition (BBC) is a nonprofit, all-volunteer community organization dedicated to the preservation of open space and the promotion of affordable housing. The Goals of Broad Brook Coalition are: ~To protect and enhance the diversity of habitats, wildlife, and plant species.~ To provide nature education and community outreach. ~ To provide access for recreation that is not detrimental to wildlife, plant species, or habitats. ~ To expand the Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area.
Connecticut River Watershed Council	Since 1952, we’ve been leading the way to restore and protect the Connecticut River. Flowing through New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and Connecticut, the river is critical to our region’s future. 15 Bank Row, Greenfield, MA 01301 413-772-2020 fax 413-772-2090
Deerfield River Watershed Association	The Deerfield River Watershed Association is a non-profit organization with the mission to preserve, protect, and enhance the natural resources of the Deerfield River watershed in south-eastern Vermont and north-western Massachusetts
EarthAction	EarthAction's mission is to inform and inspire people everywhere to turn their concern, passion and outrage into meaningful action for a more just, peaceful and sustainable world. Ms. Lois Barber, Executive Director, EarthAction, PO Box 63, Amherst, MA 01004, Tel: 413-549-8118
Earth Thrives	EarthThrives, features video clips of "local heroes" -- residents and businesses in Western Massachusetts that are incorporating greener habits and technologies into everyday life.
Environmental Center for Our Schools (ECOS)	ECOS opened in 1970. This unique school is designed for elementary and middle school students in Springfield. Each student and her/his teacher spend two school days at the Clifford A. Phaneuf Environmental Center in Forest Park. Students are transported from their school to Forest Park each morning and returned to their school in time for dismissal.The 750 acres of Forest Park provide a classroom which contains a treasure of environmental experiences.
Four Mile Brook Watershed Assn.	The mission of the non-profit Four Mile Brook Watershed Association is to preserve and protect the natural resources of Four Mile Brook, Fisher Brook and the surrounding watershed. We seek to encourage careful planning of future development. Four Mile Brook Watershed Association, P.O. Box 6, Northfield, MA 01360
Franklin Land Trust	Preserving farmland and open space in western Massachusetts since 1987 - The beauty that surrounds us in Franklin County is not just a backdrop — it is a part of our lives, a presence that unites and defines us. We are fortunate to live in a place that is a place — a working landscape, endowed by nature and shaped by generations of human effort.
Hadley Neighbors for Sensible Development	Hadley Neighbors for Sensible Development (HNSD) is a group of Hadley residents concerned about Hadley's future. Like many small towns across the U.S., Hadley is experiencing severe development pressures that threaten the infrastructure of our town. Already plagued by excessive traffic, poor air quality, not enough water to meet current demands, and increasing noise levels, Hadley has initiated a long-range planning process to help resolve some of these issues. HNSD believes that democratic participation can create fair solutions to these challenges, and create revenue generating development that maintains Hadley's character and respects its planning goals while protecting our precious farmland.
High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary (Mass Audubon)	This sanctuary protects an extraordinary variety of wild native plants, among them 20 species of orchids and 30 species of ferns. Wildflowers, many of them rare, are at their best from May through September. High Ledges has an extensive trail system. The ledges, for which the site is named, offer a panoramic view of the Deerfield River valley and Mt. Greylock, the highest mountain peak in the state.
Hilltown Land Trust	Dedicated to preserving active farmland and other working properties, saving native plant and wildlife habitats, protecting watersheds, and preserving the scenic and rural character of the Hilltowns of Western Massachusetts.
Hilltown Sustainability Group	Centered at the Old Creamery in Cummington on Route 9 (with the cow on the roof). The website includes a calendar of great events.
Hitchcock Center for the Environment (Amherst, MA)	The Hitchcock Center for the Environment's mission is to foster a greater awareness and understanding of our natural world and to develop environmentally literate citizens. We offer natural history programs for people of all ages and backgrounds. We are committed to excellence in science education and work extensively in school systems throughout western Massachusetts training educators to be more effective science teachers.
Just Food Now	Why "just food?" We must “just grow food” in response to the perfect storm of Global Climate Change's impacts on food, the effect of Peak Oil on food, the threat of Economic Collapse, and we must “grow food justly”…at home: Grow a Garden, on nearby farms: Buy Local, in the marketplace: Fair Trade.
The Kestrel Land Trust	Founded in 1970, The Kestrel Land Trust is a regional land trust in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts dedicated to the protection of forests, fields, farms, and wetlands from the Mount Holyoke Range to Mount Toby and from the Connecticut River to the Quabbin Reservoir. By working with landowners, town conservation commissions, state agencies, and other land trusts Kestrel has helped to conserve thousands of acres in this nine-town region.
The Mill River Greenway	The Mill River Greenway is a working group of local citizens who aim to protect the Mill River watershed, preserve its cultural artifacts, enhance its biological health and encourage recreational activity. Our goal is to design and create a greenway along the river.
Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust	The base area of Mount Grace's conservation efforts is a 23-town region in north central and western Massachusetts. The core strength of Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust is our focus on completing significant land protection projects and actively stewarding the conservation areas we own. Our effectiveness is a function of our “just do it,” no-frills approach.
Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA)	The Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA) is the nation's leading regional membership organization focused on promoting the understanding, development, and adoption of energy conservation and non-polluting, renewable energy technologies. For more than thirty years, NESEA has facilitated and enhanced a network of professionals, practitioners, and other citizens in pursuit of responsible energy use. Our programs and activities focus on the northeastern United States, from Washington, DC to Maine. NESEA is a chapter of the American Solar Energy Society. 50 Miles Street, Greenfield, MA 01301, Phone: 413-774-6051, Fax: 413-774-6053.
Pioneer Valley Local First	Since 2001 our mission is to encourage people to Think Local First so that they Buy and Bank Local First. Additionally, we encourage and support companies to be more socially, locally and environmentally responsible.
Rushing Rivers	The Rushing Rivers Institute is a clearing house for river science with a mission to help secure water resources for the environment and future human use. Rushing Rivers provides on-demand applied research to protect and restore rivers, offering engineering solutions integrating physical and ecological sciences, professional training and project review services. It builds upon expertise of Northeast Instream Habitat Program, as well as on the expertise of scientists at the universities and research institutes throughout the country and internationally. Rushing Rivers Institute will be located in Amherst, Massachusetts.
Valley Community Land Trust	The Valley Community Land Trust (VCLT) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that holds title to land, considering it neither as private nor public property, but as a sacred resource to be held in trust for present and future generations.
Winrock International	Winrock International is a nonprofit organization that works with people in the United States and around the world to increase economic opportunity, sustain natural resources, and protect the environment. Winrock matches innovative approaches in agriculture, natural resources management, clean energy, and leadership development with the unique needs of its partners. By linking local individuals and communities with new ideas and technology, Winrock is increasing long-term productivity, equity, and responsible resource management to benefit the poor and disadvantaged of the world. 85 Avenue A, Suite 301, Turners Falls, MA 01376, Phone: 1.413.863.3087, Fax: 1.413.863.3618

Other Berkshire County Neighbors return to top of page
Columbia Land Conservancy (Chatham, NY)	The Columbia Land Conservancy works with the community to conservethe farmland, forests, wildlife habitat and rural character of Columbia County, strengthening connections between people and the land.
Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center (Cropseyville, NY)	The Center offers activities and workshops dedicated to environmental education. All programs are open to both adults and children accompanied by their parents.
Friends of Hudson (Hudson, NY)	Dedicated to ensuring a healthy, sustainable and fulfilling quality of life for our region’s economically and culturally diverse population.
People For Less Pollution (Middlebury, VT)	People for Less Pollution (PLP) is a grassroots environmental organization established in October 2003 to oppose the International Paper Company (IP) plan to burn tire derived fuel at the Ticonderoga, NY mill. PLP worked to organize and help people to articulate the very strong opposition to the tire burn that developed throughout Addison County and the rest of Vermont... At present we have been successful in mobilizing public opposition to the tire burn and our efforts have contributed significantly to delaying the test burn originally proposed in October of 2003.
The Salisbury Association Land Trust (Salisbury, CT)	Mission: To manage, monitor easements, preserve rural character, work with other conservation organizations, educate public.Salisbury Association Land Trust, PO Box 553, Salisbury, CT 06068-0553
Vermont Land Trust (Montpelier, VT)	Founded in 1977, the Vermont Land Trust (VLT) is one of the most effective land trusts in the country. Its primary focus is on permanently conserving productive, recreational, and scenic lands vital to Vermont's and rural economy and environment.

Massachusetts Sites return to top of page
Environmental League of Massachusetts	The Environmental League of Massachusetts is dedicated to protecting the air, water, and land for the people of the commonwealth. We do this by voicing citizens' concerns, educating the public, advocating for strong environmental laws, and ensuring that our laws are implemented and enforced.
Harvard Forest	Since 1907 research and education have been the mission of the Harvard Forest, one of the oldest and most intensively studied forests in North America.
Linking Landscapes (MA)	This website represents a critical strategic component: to gather information on the locations of wildlife roadkill hotspots. Help contribute data, and read more about our proactive efforts to protect rare wildlife, via the links below.
Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions	MACC was formed in 1961 to assist local Conservation Commissions by providing educational materials describing their duties and outlining methods of attaining their goals. MACC works to explain state government and to discuss ways of improving the citizen's role in environmental protection.
Mass Audubon	Mass Audubon works to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife. Together with more than 100,000 members, we care for 32,000 acres of conservation land, provide educational programs for 200,000 children and adults annually, and advocate for sound environmental policies at local, state, and federal levels.
Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN)	MCAN is dedicated to halting the threat of global climate change through reducing emissions of greenhouse gases in our communities and our state. The MCAN Network is composed of over three dozen local and statewide groups that have joined together in a cooperative effort. The groups' efforts are principally devoted to conducting public education and influencing municipal governments in their home communities, to achieve local reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. MCAN also works to change climate policy at the state level in Massachusetts, through influencing the state's climate action plan; legislation related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, and transportation; and regional planning efforts.
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection	The Department of Environmental Protection is the state agency responsible for ensuring clean air and water, the safe management of toxics and hazards, the recycling of solid and hazardous wastes, the timely cleanup of hazardous waste sites and spills, and the preservation of wetlands and coastal resources.
Mass Green Network	Mass Green Network - We can make Massachusetts polystyrene-free. We can reduce litter from plastic bags. This website compiles resources and best practices drawn from the experience of municipalities in Massachusetts and elsewhere.
Massachusetts Invasive Plant Advisory Group	The Massachusetts Invasive Plant Advisory Group [MIPAG], is a voluntary collaborative representing organizations and professionals concerned with the conservation of the Massachusetts' landscape.
Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition	Increase the effectiveness of land trusts and conservation organizations in Massachusetts in working with the legislature and governmental agencies on issues of direct interest to the conservation movement. Promote high ethical and professional standards as outlined in the Land Trust Alliance Statement of Standards and Practices for Land Trusts. Members agree to support this Statement as a general guide for their work. Assist The Trustees of Reservations in organizing and presenting the annual Massachusetts Land Trust Conference. Provide a forum for the exchange of ideas, skills, and information within the conservation movement.
Massachusetts League of Environmental Voters	MLEV is a statewide, non-partisan organization dedicated to making environmental protection a top priority for Massachusetts elected officials, candidates, and voters in order to protect our environment and health.
Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program	Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, Priority Habitat, Estimated Habitat, BioMap, and Living Waters - also Rare Species report forms and forms and instructions for certifying vernal pools
Massachusetts Rivers Alliance	MRA formed to restore and protect the rivers and streams of Massachusetts and the ecosystems they support, by developing practical, effective policy solutions to provide a sustainable future for our rivers and the Citizens of the Commonwealth.
Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (formerly Massachusetts Riverways)	The mission of the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration is to promote the restoration and protection of the ecological integrity of the Commonwealth's watersheds: rivers, streams and adjacent lands.
Massachusetts Watershed Coalition	The Coalition is a network of local organizations that are committed to the protection, sound management and enhancement of Massachusetts rivers and watershed ecosystems. The Coalition's goals are to strengthen the work of watershed associations and allied groups; to raise awareness of actions to sustain and enhance the vitality of our rivers and watershed ecosystems; and to advocate for policies and decisions that protect our valuable water supplies and natural heritage.
Massachusetts Woodlands Institute	The Massachusetts Woodlands Institute is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to (a) maintain the environment and character of the woodlands of Massachusetts; (b) conserve and enhance forest resources; and (c) foster community economic development.
MassGIS	Geographic Information Systems - downloadable maps and images of Massachusetts - many different data layers available
Mass Power Forward Coalition	Mass Power Forward Coalition - We are environmental leaders, community development organizations, clean energy businesses, faith groups, neighborhood health and safety advocates and Massachusetts families fighting for our future. We believe our state and region can power forward with clean, affordable, reliable energy and a thriving economy. We have no other choice.
MassSolar	MassSolar website is a discussion platform for the solar community as well as a resource for legislators, policymakers and citizen activists interested in learning about how solar is working for Massachusetts.
MassWoods	The goal of MassWoods is to provide accurate information to woodland owners when they need to make two critical decisions about the future of their land: 1) the potential sale of timber and 2) planning for the future of the property. MassWoods.net features an interactive map to direct landowners to local resources to help them with their decisions. Service foresters, local land trusts, statewide land trusts and conservation organizations are all listed for each town across the state. The list of resources will be expanding to include licensed foresters and community members that can also help landowners.
Natural Resources & Environmental Conservation program of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst	University of Massachusetts Extension's Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation (NREC) Program provides educational programs and materials that enable people to make informed decisions and take actions to preserve or enhance the quality, productivity and sustainability of natural resources and natural systems.
No Fracked Gas in Mass	Help stop pipeline and other fracked gas infrastructure projects in Massachusetts by providing an informational hub and networking information to by help citizens stay informed and engaged in the regulatory and legislative process.
Northeast Organic Farming Association - Massachusetts Chapter	NOFA/Mass is a community including farmers, gardeners, landscapers and consumers working to educate members and the general public about the benefits of local organic systems based on complete cycles, natural materials, and minimal waste for the health of individual beings, communities and the living planet.
Northeast Wildlife Trackers Conference	TheNortheast Wildlife Trackers Conference is organized by BEAT, New England Discovery, and Lydia Rogers of Walden Keeping Track. Information regarding the 2012 conference will be available soon.
Sierra Club Massachusetts Chapter	Sierra Club is a nonprofit membership organization, with leaders elected by our membership on an annual basis. We have 27,000 members in Massachusetts, and more than 700,000 members nationwide, dedicated to the protection of the Earth's natural environment. The Massachusetts Chapter currently has 5 active groups serving much of the commonwealth, with volunteer leaders who are active on local environmental issues.
The Trustees Of Reservations	Since 1891, The Trustees of Reservations has been saving the Massachusetts landscape for people to enjoy. Our conservation work has helped protect more than 53,000 acres across the state. We care for 23,612 acres on 94 reservations that are open to the public and we inspire conservation awareness through a variety of educational programs. We are a nonprofit organization supported by our 40,000 members.
Vernal Pool Association	The Vernal Pool Association is an environmental project of Reading Memorial High School, Reading, Massachusetts. Our goal is to encourage the appreciation, protection, and interdisciplinary study of vernal pools, particularly by students. To meet this objective, we produce educational materials, present workshops and talks, and interact with educators and students both in person and through the Internet. We are actively involved with state, federal and private environmental protection and education agencies and organizations. This website, "The Vernal Pool", is our on-line effort at education and outreach.

The Northeast return to top of page
Acadia Center (formerly Environment Northeast)	We help to build clean, competitive, environmentally sustainable economies through data-driven research, innovative policies, and market-based solutions.
Appalachian Corridor Appalachien	Appalachian Corridor (ACA) is a non-profit conservation organization whose mission is the protection of the natural areas of the Appalachians. Through the implementation of a transborder conservation strategy, the ACA provides local communities with the means to maintain and restore a way of life that respects the ecology of the region in a perspective of sustainable development.
Beneficial Insects in New Hampshire Farms & Gardens (pdf) and website	Beneficial Insects in New Hampshire Farms & Gardens is a great resource with clear photos of many of the beneficial insects that can be found in our area.
Conservation Law Foundation	Since 1966, CLF’s tenacious advocacy staff has worked to solve the most significant environmental problems that threaten New England. CLF’s advocates use law, economics and science to create innovative strategies to conserve natural resources, protect public health and promote vital communities in our region.
Eagle Hill Foundation	The focus of the Eagle Hill Foundation is the interdisciplinary aspects of the study of nature and natural history. Its broad mission involves exploring both the way art and culture have been shaped by the natural world in which they have developed as well as how they have influenced the societal perceptions and understanding of nature through the ages.
Eastern Native Tree Society	ENTS is a cyberspace interest group devoted to the celebration of trees of the eastern North America through art, poetry, music, mythology, science, medicine, and wood crafts. ENTS is also intended as an archive for information on specific trees and stands of trees. ENTS will store data on accurately measured trees for historical documentation purposes, scientific research, and to resolve big tree disputes.
Land for Good	Land For Good (LFG) offerz education and assistance to owners and managers of working lands, entering farmers, and other-land use decision-makers in the six New England states. Our vision is of a regional landscape of vibrant working farms and forests that provide opportunities for people who derive their livelihoods from the land.
Native Bees of New England	Native Bees of New England's mission is to provide information about the bees present in New England including diversity, ecology, flower preference, and flower ecology in order to increase understanding and awareness of pollinators and the services they provide.
New England Forestry Foundation	The New England Forestry Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the conservation and sustainable management of the private and municipal forestlands of New England.
New England Small Farm Institute (Belchertown, MA)	New England Small Farm Institute (NESFI) is a land-based, non-profit organization. Our mission is to promote small farm development by providing information and training for aspiring, beginning and transitioning farmers. We maintain an extensive resource collection; produce publications; develop and offer innovative, farmer-guided programs; and advocate for policies that encourage sustainable small-scale agriculture. We seek collaborative program-delivery partnerships with service providers—associates, on-farm mentors, organizations and agencies—throughout the Northeast and nationwide.
Northeast Organic Farming Association	NOFA is a non-profit organization of nearly 4,000 farmers, gardners and consumers working to promote healthy food, organic farming practices and a cleaner environment.
Northeast Sustainable Energy Association	Professionals and concerned citizens working in sustainable energy and whole systems thinking, NESEA facilitates the widespread adoption and use of sustainable energy by providing support to industry professionals and by educating and motivating consumers to learn about, ask for, and adopt sustainable energy and green building practices.
Northeast Wilderness Trust	The Northeast Wilderness Trust was founded on the core belief that wilderness needs to become a bigger part of the conservation landscape so that wild Nature will endure in this corner of America. The Northeast Wilderness Trust is the only regional land trust focused exclusively on restoring and protecting wilderness areas.
Northern Naturalists	Charley Eiseman and Noah Charney, authors of Tracks & Sign of Insects and Other Invertebrates, offer custom walks, talks, courses, and wildlife inventory services throughout New England.
Open Space Institute (OSI)	The Open Space Institute (OSI) protects scenic, natural, and historic landscapes to ensure public enjoyment, conserve habitats, and sustain community character. OSI achieves its goals through land acquisition, conservation easements, regional loan programs, fiscal sponsorship, creative partnerships, and analytical research. - One of OSI's project areas is Western Massachusetts.
Public Employees For Environmental Responsibility	"Protecting Employees Who Protect Our Environment" - PEER is a national non-profit alliance of local, state and federal scientists, law enforcement officers, land managers and other professionals dedicated to upholding environmental laws and values. PEER’s New England Office opened in November of 2001, although PEER has been active throughout New England since 1994.
Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)	The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI or "ReGGIe") is a cooperative effort by 9 Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states to discuss the design of a regional cap-and-trade program initially covering carbon dioxide emissions from power plants in the region. In the future, RGGI may be extended to include other sources of greenhouse gas emissions, and greenhouse gases other than CO2.
Toxics Action Center	Since 1987, Toxics Action Center has helped more than 400 neighborhood groups across New England fight toxic pollution in their communities. We work on a variety of issues including cleaning up hazardous waste sites, stopping proposed landfills and incinerators, stopping the spraying of pesticides, pressuring companies to reduce their toxic chemical use, and other issues that threaten the health and safety of residents, neighborhoods and the environment. Through our group consultations, expert referrals, conferences, and information guides, Toxics Action Center will help you wage effective campaigns to force stubborn polluters and unresponsive bureaucracies to protect the health and safety of your community.
Two Countries One Forest	Two Countries, One Forest is a major Canadian-U.S. collaborative of conservation organizations, researchers, foundations and conservation-minded individuals. Our international community is focused on protection, conservation and restoration of forests and natural heritage from New York to Nova Scotia, across the Northern Appalachian/Acadian ecoregion.

National Sites return to top of page
American Rivers	American Rivers works every day for healthy rivers, abundant fish and wildlife, and thriving river communities.
Appalachian Trail Conservancy	The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is a volunteer-based, private nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of the 2,175-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail, a 250,000-acre greenway extending from Maine to Georgia. Our mission is to ensure that future generations will enjoy the clean air and water, scenic vistas, wildlife and opportunities for simple recreation and renewal along the entire Trail corridor.
As You Sow	As You Sow's Waste Program advocates for more responsible production and recycling of consumer products and packaging to preserve the Earth's limited natural resources. We want to reduce and then eliminate waste, especially in the post-consumer phase through adoption by companies of extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies.
Beyond Pesticides	Beyond Pesticides (formerly National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides) works with allies in protecting public health and the environment to lead the transition to a world free of toxic pesticides.
Center for Biological Diversity	At the Center we believe that the health and vigor of human societies and the integrity and wildness of the natural environment are closely linked. Beyond their extraordinary intrinsic value, animals and plants, in their distinctness and variety, offer irreplaceable emotional and physical benefits to our lives and play an integral part in culture. Their loss, which parallels the loss of diversity within and among human civilizations, impoverishes us beyond repair.
Center for Diversity & the Environment	The Center for Diversity & the Environment racially and ethnically diversifies the U.S. environmental movement by developing leaders, diversifying institutions, and building community. We envision a healthy, flourishing planet and society that sustainably and equitably meets the needs of all its citizens through an environmental movement that is diverse, inclusive, successful, vibrant, and relevant, taking into account the needs, perspectives, and voices of all.
Climate Crisis Coalition	The Climate Crisis Coalition seeks to broaden the circle of individuals, organizations and constituencies engaged in the global warming issue, to link it with other issues and to provide a structure to forge a common agenda and advance action plans with a united front.
Community & Environmental Defense Services	Since 1987, Community & Environmental Defense Services (CEDS) has been helping individuals, home owner associations and nonprofit groups with threats to neighborhoods and the environment.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology	The Lab is a nonprofit membership institution whose mission is to interpret and conserve the earth's biological diversity through research, education, and citizen science focused on birds. Our programs work with citizen scientists, government and nongovernment agencies across North America and beyond. We believe that bird enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels can and do make a difference. We invite you to learn more about our areas of study.
Defenders of Wildlife	Defenders of Wildlife is dedicated to the protection of all native wild animals and plants in their natural communities. We focus our programs on what scientists consider two of the most serious environmental threats to the planet: the accelerating rate of extinction of species and the associated loss of biological diversity, and habitat alteration and destruction. Long known for our leadership on endangered species issues, Defenders of Wildlife also advocates new approaches to wildlife conservation that will help keep species from becoming endangered.
The Ecological Rights Foundation (EcoRights)	The Ecological Rights Foundation is devoted to furthering the rights of all people to a clean, healthful, and biologically diverse environment. It is essential that industries afford protection to workers, consumers, communities, and our ecosystems, the foundations of our local economies. Through education and the enforcement of environmental laws, we seek to protect the public and our environment from injurious business practices.
Environmental Defense	Environmental Defense is a leading national nonprofit organization representing more than 400,000 members. Since 1967, we have linked science, economics and law to create innovative, equitable and cost-effective solutions to society's most urgent environmental problems.
GMO Updates	GMO Updates - stay current with the effort to have products containing Genetically Modified Organisms labeled.
Green Corps	Green Corps' one-year, full-time, paid Environmental Leadership Training Program gives the top student leaders the skills and experiences it takes to be a leader in the environmental movement .
Keeping Track®	Keeping Track's mission is to inspire community participation in the long-term stewardship of wildlife habitat. We teach adults and children to observe, interpret, record and monitor evidence of wildlife habitat in their communities, and we support the use of monitoring data by citizens in local and regional conservation planning. Keeping Track's focus on wide ranging mammals provides a vital indictor of the ecological health of the landscape as a whole.
Land Trust Alliance	The Land Trust Alliance promotes voluntary private land conservation to benefit communities and natural systems. We are the national convener, strategist and representative of more than 1,500 land trusts across America.
League of Conservation Voters	The political voice of the Environmental Movement
Manomet Center For Conservation Sciences	As one of the nation's oldest independent environmental research organizations, Manomet conducts original research on natural systems and wildlife. We use our science to bring people together and guide them in the development of practical strategies that improve conditions for wildlife, habitats and people.
National Wildlife Federation	National Wildlife Federation inspires Americans to protect wildlife for our children's future. We have been working to protect America's wildlife since 1936. We represent the power and commitment of four million members and supporters joined by affiliated wildlife organizations in 47 states and territories. We channel the energy of thousands of volunteers from all walks of life to take action because they care about wildlife. We unite Americans in their shared value of wildlife conservation.
Non-GMO Project	The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit organization committed to preserving and building sources of non-GMO products, educating consumers, and providing verified non-GMO choices.
Natural Resources Defense Council	NRDC uses law, science and the support of 1.2 million members and online activists to protect the planet's wildlife and wild places and to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all living things.
Ocean River Institute	The Ocean River Institute’s mission is to foster greater personal involvement in conservation, environmental monitoring, and protecting ecosystems by facilitating the grassroots efforts of groups working at local and regional levels.
Pesticide Watch	The use of toxic pesticides to manage pest problems has become a common practice around the world. Pesticides are used almost everywhere -- not only in agricultural fields, but in homes, parks, schools, buildings, forests, and roads. It is difficult to find somewhere where pesticides aren't used -- from the can of bug spray under your kitchen sink to the airplane crop dusting acres of farmland, our world is filled with pesticides. In addition, pesticides can be found in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink.
Red Lodge Clearinghouse	Inspiring natural resource collaboration and more. The mission of the Red Lodge Clearinghouse is to support, connect and inform the partners of collaborative efforts and others addressing natural resource challenges in their community.
River Network	Among national environmental organizations, River Network has assumed primary responsibility for building and supporting the river and watershed movement. And the movement is growing—from just a few hundred groups a decade ago to over 4000 organizations today.
Safer Chemicals Healthy Families	A nationwide effort to pass smart federal policies that protect us from toxic chemicals.
Save America's Forests	A coalition of thousands of scientists, citizens, and groups throughout America working together to protect local forests, including the largest trees on earth, the Giant Sequoias in Giant Sequoia National Monument, where 50% of the Sequoias are found, and the entire national forest system, over 200 million acres, including tens of millions of acres of roadless and Ancient forests.
Teaming With Wildlife	Teaming with Wildlife is a coalition of more than 3,000 organizations working to prevent wildlife from becoming endangered by supporting increased state and federal funding for wildlife conservation.
Trust for Public Land	The Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national, nonprofit, land conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, community gardens, historic sites, rural lands, and other natural places, ensuring livable communities for generations to come.
Vernal Pool Association	The Vernal Pool Association is an independent group of individuals attempting to educate others about vernal pool ecology, the local environment, bio-diversity, and the protection of our resources. Our goal is to encourage the appreciation, protection, and interdisciplinary study of vernal pools, particularly by students.

International Sites return to top of page
Conservation International	Our mission is to conserve the Earth's living heritage, our global biodiversity, and to demonstrate that human societies are able to live harmoniously with nature.
ICLEI	ICLEI is an international association of 660 local governments. Cities, counties, towns and villages around the world are members of ICLEI. ICLEI was launched in the United States in 1995 and has grown from a handful of local governments participating in a pilot project to more than 160 cities and counties providing national leadership on climate protection and sustainable development.
International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN)	IPEN is a global network of public interest non-governmental organizations united in support of a common POPs Elimination Platform. The mission of IPEN is to work for the global elimination of persistent organic pollutants, on an expedited yet socially equitable basis. * POPs - Persistent Organic Pollutants
water.org	Every day, thousands of people die from lack of access to clean water. The safe water issue is intimately linked to hygiene education and proper sanitation, which is why we take an integrated approach to bringing safe water to the world’s poor.
Wetlands International	Wetlands International is a global organisation that works to sustain and restore wetlands and their resources for people and biodiversity. We are an independent, not-for-profit, global organisation, supported by government and NGO membership from around the world.
Wildlands Network	Wildlands Network represents networks of people protecting networks of land. Our focus is to restore, protect and connect North America's best wild places. Our international network of conservation partners and individuals work to make sure Nature has enough "room to roam," to survive for the long-term.
World Wildlife Fund	Known worldwide by its panda logo, World Wildlife Fund (WWF) leads international efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats. Now in its fifth decade, WWF works in more than 100 countries around the globe to conserve the diversity of life on earth. With nearly 1.2 million members in the U.S. and another 4 million worldwide, WWF is the world's largest privately financed conservation organization.
The WILD Foundation	Our global vision to protect and interconnect at least half of the planet, land and water, to support life on earth.

Stop Fracked Gas return to top of page
101 Terrific Sites on Renewable Energy	101 Terrific Sites on Renewable Energy - Techniques for harvesting solar energy, wind energy, and even the tidal movements of the ocean. These sites have the latest data on renewable energy technologies, availability, and the environmental impact of using a renewable source instead of rapidly dwindling supplies of combustible fossil fuels.
350MA-Berkshire	The Berkshire Node of 350MA (350 Massachusetts), a climate action network made up of engaged volunteers who work with the media, organize events, educate their communities, lobby lawmakers, and more.
Beyond Extreme Energy	Beyond Extreme Energy. People taking action to retire fossil fuels.
FANG	FANG: Fighting Against Natural Gas
Frack Busters NY	We share a deep commitment to making fracking and related industrial harms crimes in New York State law.
MassPLAN (Massachusetts PipeLine Awareness Network)	MassPLAN is a coalition of groups and organizations opposed to the proposed Kinder Morgan/Tennessee Gas Pipeline Northeast Energy Direct (“NED”) Project.
MassSolar	MassSolar website is a discussion platform for the solar community as well as a resource for legislators, policymakers and citizen activists interested in learning about how solar is working for Massachusetts.
New Hampshire Pipeline Awareness	NHPipelineAwareness.org strongly opposes construction of the Northeast Energy Direct natural gas pipeline (NED) that Kinder Morgan/Tennessee Gas Pipeline seeks to build in New England, New York, and Pennsylvania.
No Fracked Gas in Mass	No Fracked Gas in Mass is an information clearinghouse on the fight against new fracked gas infrastructure in Massachusetts and supporting energy efficiency and renewable alternatives.
Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA)	The Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA) is the nation's leading regional membership organization focused on promoting the understanding, development, and adoption of energy conservation and non-polluting, renewable energy technologies. 50 Miles Street, Greenfield, MA 01301, Phone: 413-774-6051
Pipeline Safety Trust	The Pipeline Safety Trust is a nonprofit public charity promoting pipeline safety through education and advocacy by increasing access to information, and by building partnerships with residents, safety advocates, government, and industry, that result in safer communities and a healthier environment.
Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative	The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) was the first market-based regulatory program in the United States to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. RGGI is a cooperative effort among the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont to cap and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the power sector.
Rising Tide - Fracked Gas Pipeline page	Rising Tide - Stop the Fracked Gas Pipeline in VT
Sane Energy Project	Our goal at Sane Energy Project is to replace shale gas infrastructure with renewable infrastructure.
Spectra Busters	Spectrabusters is a citizen organized, citizen run organization that spans multiple counties and states.
Stop NED	StopNED – Stop Northeast Energy Direct - is a coalition of community leaders campaigning to stop the Kinder Morgan Tennessee Gas Pipeline Northeast Energy Direct fracked gas pipeline project.
Stop the Algonquin Pipeline	The Algonquin pipeline expansion represents imminent danger to safety and health in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Stop the New York Pipeline	Stop NY Fracked Gas Pipeline (SNYFGP) is an all-volunteer group of concerned citizens who oppose Kinder Morgan/Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company’s Northeast Energy Direct (NED) project.
Stop the Pipeline	Stop the Pipeline started to fight the Constitution Pipeline in NY state, and has broadened to fight the Northeast Energy Direct Pipeline as well.
The Solar Tribune	The Solar Tribune is committed to public education and providing insightful solar industry news.
VPirg Don't Frack VT	Stop the Fracked Gas Pipeline in Vermont.

Forest Related Sites return to top of page
Eastern Native Tree Society	ENTS is a cyberspace interest group devoted to the celebration of trees of the eastern North America through art, poetry, music, mythology, science, medicine, and wood crafts. ENTS is also intended as an archive for information on specific trees and stands of trees. ENTS will store data on accurately measured trees for historical documentation purposes, scientific research, and to resolve big tree disputes.
Forest Guild	The Forest Guild promotes ecologically, economically, and socially responsible forestry as a means of sustaining the integrity of forest ecosystems and the human communities dependent upon them. The Guild provides training, policy analysis, and research to foster excellence in stewardship, to support practicing foresters and allied professionals, and to engage a broader community in the challenges of forest conservation and management.
Harvard Forest	Since 1907 research and education have been the mission of the Harvard Forest, one of the oldest and most intensively studied forests in North America.
Massachusetts Keystone Project	Massachusetts Keystone Project: In ecology, a keystone species is one whose impacts on its environment are larger and greater than would be expected from one species. Like the Coverts program before, the Keystone project selects and educates forest owners and community leaders who have a significant impact on their communities. The program offers these important, Keystone people information about forest ecology, sustainable forest management, wildlife habitat enhancement, and land protection through a combination of lectures, field trips, discussions and take home resources.
Massachusetts Woodlands Institute	The Massachusetts Woodlands Institute is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to (a) maintain the environment and character of the woodlands of Massachusetts; (b) conserve and enhance forest resources; and (c) foster community economic development.
MassWoods	The goal of MassWoods is to provide accurate information to woodland owners when they need to make two critical decisions about the future of their land: 1) the potential sale of timber and 2) planning for the future of the property. MassWoods.net features an interactive map to direct landowners to local resources to help them with their decisions. Service foresters, local land trusts, statewide land trusts and conservation organizations are all listed for each town across the state. The list of resources will be expanding to include licensed foresters and community members that can also help landowners.
New England Forestry Foundation	The New England Forestry Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the conservation and sustainable management of the private and municipal forestlands of New England.
Wildlands and Woodlands Partnership	Wildlands and Woodlands: A Vision for the Forests of Massachusetts, which articulates a bold idea – namely, that approximately 1.5 million acres should be added to the state’s existing protected land base of one million acres, to reach a target of 2.5 million acres, an area equal to half of the land within the borders of the state of Massachusetts.

Wildlife and Road Ecology Sites return to top of page
Arizona's Wildlife Linkages	The proliferation of roads, railroads, fences, canals and urban development is fragmenting wildlife habitat and potentially creating barriers that can inhibit animal movement and migration and isolate wildlife populations.
Center for Transportation and the Environment	The Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) conducts research, education, and technology transfer that seek to mitigate the impacts of surface transportation on the environment.
Corridor Design	Our goal is to transfer everything we've learned about designing wildlife corridors to the general public to facilitate better conservation, science, and dialogue.
Critter Crossings (FHWA)	Linking habitats and reducing roadkill. The web site describes transportation's impacts on wildlife and highlights exemplary projects and processes that are helping to reduce these impacts.
Federal Highway Administration Environment pages	Transportation planning and project development must reflect the desires of communities, and take into account the impacts on both the natural and human environments. Transportation projects are closely looked at to see how they might impact the community, the natural environment, and our health and welfare.
Freedom to Roam	Freedom to Roam is a non-profit initiative that brings together people, organizations and businesses to enhance and protect wildlife corridors and landscape connectivity in North America. Our goal is to give wildlife and people the freedom to roam.
International Conference on Ecology and Transportation	The mission of the International Conference on Ecology and Transportation is to identify and share quality research applications and best management practices that address wildlife, habitat, and ecosystem issues related to the delivery of surface transportation systems. ICOET is the primary forum for an international gathering of the foremost experts in the field of transportation development, related scientific study, and administrative processes that can enhance both the project development process and the ecological sustainability of transportation systems.
Linking Landscapes (MA)	This website represents a critical strategic component: to gather information on the locations of wildlife roadkill hotspots. Help contribute data, and read more about our proactive efforts to protect rare wildlife, via the links below.
North Atlantic Aquatic Connectivity Collaborative	The North Atlantic Aquatic Connectivity Collaborative (NAACC) is a network of individuals from universities, conservation organizations, and state and federal natural resource and transportation departments focused on improving aquatic connectivity across a thirteen-state region, from Maine to West Virginia. NOTE: Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT) is a part of this collaborative.
Road Ecology Center	The Road Ecology Center was created by a cooperative effort between the John Muir Institute of the Environment (JMIE) and Institute of Transportation Studies (ITS-Davis) at the University of California, Davis. Our goal is to bring together researchers and policy makers from ecology and transportation to design sustainable transportation systems based on an understanding of the impact of roads on natural landscapes and human communities. To accomplish this goal, we are developing a broadly interdisciplinary program dedicated to the design of transportation systems that are environmentally and socially friendly.
Stream Crossings (NYDEC)	Streams are long, linear ecosystems. The processes that nourish these ecosystems are interrelated and dependent on "continuity" of the stream corridor. Our transportation and access needs often result in fragmentation of streams. Many stream crossings, such as bridges and culverts, act as barriers to fish and wildlife. Awareness of the effects of stream crossings plays an important role in maintaining stream continuity.
TransWild Alliance	Conservation advocacy organizations working to protect wildlife and natural resources from the devastating impacts of highways and associated development. The TransWild Alliance merely provides the means for these groups to communicate, coordinate and support one another through this partnership.
Wildlands Network	Wildlands Network represents networks of people protecting networks of land. Our focus is to restore, protect and connect North America's best wild places. Our international network of conservation partners and individuals work to make sure Nature has enough "room to roam," to survive for the long-term.
Wildlife and Roads	A resource for mitigating the effects of roads on wildlife using wildlife crossings such as overpasses, underpasses, and crosswalks. This website is a dynamic part of a National Cooperative Highway Research Program sponsored research project titled; 'Evaluation of the Use and Effectiveness of Wildlife Crossings.'
Wildlife Crossing Toolkit	The Wildlife Crossings Toolkit is designed for professional wildlife biologists and engineers faced with integrating our highway infrastructure and wildlife resources.The Toolkit project was initiated by the USDA Forest Service, San Dimas Technology and Development Center.
Wildlife Observation Reporting	California and Maine web-based map and database designed to record your observations of road-side and road-killed wildlife. (Note: Massachusetts has a similar website. Linking Landscapes.)

Wildlife Tracking Sites return to top of page
Assabet Keeping Track	Website of the Assabet Keeping Track group at the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge
Berkshire Wildlife Trackers	Website of the Berkshire Wildlife Trackers tracking group in the Berkshires.
Cold Hollow to Canada - Citizen Science: Keeping Track	A program to inspire community participation in the stewardship of wildlife habitat in the Cold Hollow to Canada area.
Cyber Tracker	Our ultimate vision is that millions of Smartphone users will use CyberTracker to capture observations on a daily basis. Data streaming into the Internet will make it possible to monitor the entire global ecosystem in real time.
David Brown's Wildlife Services	David Brown's Wildlife Services provides several services focused on New England wildlife including interpretive programs,wildlife inventories, docent training for interpretive walk leaders, and wildlife education planning for organizations
ID and Preserve Tracks (pdf)	PDF of a wildlife bulletin on how to identify some and preserve most any wildlife tracks
Keeping Track®	Keeping Track's mission is to inspire community participation in the long-term stewardship of wildlife habitat. We teach adults and children to observe, interpret, record and monitor evidence of wildlife habitat in their communities, and we support the use of monitoring data by citizens in local and regional conservation planning. Keeping Track's focus on wide ranging mammals provides a vital indictor of the ecological health of the landscape as a whole.
Leoniak Tracking Services	LTS will work with you to meet your goals, so that you can apply the skills of tracking in whatever you wish to accomplish.
Nashaway Trackers	Website of the Nashaway Trackers based around Bolton, Harvard, Stow, and Shrewsbury, MA.
Nature Tracking	Dedicated to furthering the application of animal tracking in wildlife research. Animal tracking is a valuable skill with many practical applications, including: wildlife research and monitoring, environmental education, ecotourism, hunting, and wildlife viewing. (Texas & southwest mostly?)
New England Discovery	The goal at New England Discovery is to increase awareness and appreciation of wildlife and the natural world by helping people become more familiar with the wild animals that live around us, and how these animals interact with and depend on their environment. (Bob Metcalfe)
Northern Naturalists	Charley Eiseman and Noah Charney, authors of Tracks & Sign of Insects and Other Invertebrates, offer custom walks, talks, courses, and wildlife inventory services throughout New England.
Walnut Hill Tracking & Nature Center	Our goal is to share the excitement and wonder we experience in the natural world. The curriculum is designed to provide students with opportunities for exploration. (Nick Wisniewski & Valerie Major)
Wildlife Tracking Southwest (NM)	Wildlife Tracking Southwest provides a means for people to discover and explore the wide variety of animal sign found in the natural world. Wildlife tracking is a skill readily learned by anyone and beneficial to many: weekend hikers, outdoor educators, knowledge-hungry naturalists, hunters, biologists and backyard-nature enthusiasts alike. (Casey McFarland)
Wildwood Tracking	Tracking is all about following marks left by animals. It involves their actual tracks, as well as scat and other signs. Tracking skills will of course enable you to get close enough to a live animal to kill it for food and hides and other materials useful in a survival situation.
Earthwork Wilderness Survival Training Programs	Our vision is to offer experiences in nature that will introduce people to a new awareness of themselves and the natural world around them. It is our hope that these experiences act as a reminder of how beautiful and sacred nature is, and how good it feels to be connected to it and to the people around us.

Wildlife and Climate Change Sites return to top of page
National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center (NCCWSC)	The earth’s climate, including changes in temperature, weather patterns, and precipitation, is expected to have significant effects on our nation’s fish and wildlife resources now and in the future. Relatively little scientific information exists on which to inform adaptation or management of fish and wildlife in the face of climate change.
Skeptical Science	Skeptics vigorously criticise any evidence that supports man-made global warming and yet embrace any argument, op-ed, blog or study that purports to refute global warming. This website gets skeptical about global warming skepticism. Do their arguments have any scientific basis? What does the peer reviewed scientific literature say?

Massachusett Laws and Regulations return to top of page
Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act
Massachusetts Endangered Species Act
Massachusetts Public Records Law (An Overview) (pdf file download 575 KB)
Massachusetts Open Meeting Law
Massachusetts State Ethics Commission