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Sustainable Berkshires: A Plan for Moving the Region Forward

After three years of public input and review, the regional plan intended to improve quality of life across the Berkshires is ready for adoption!

Please join BRPC on March 6, 2014 at the Berkshire Anthenaeum Auditorium (1 Wendell Avenue, Pittsfield) for:

  • An Open House, 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Review key findings and goals for each plan topic. Staff will be on hand for questions.
  • A Public Hearing, 5:30 p.m.: Pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 40B “The Regional Planning Law”, Section 5, BRPC will hold a Public Hearing on the Proposed Sustainable Berkshires plan.

We hope that you will come and show your support for Sustainable Berkshires!

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Support for the Green Budget

As you may know, we are part of a large coalition of environmental groups, pushing for the “green budget,” compiled by the Environmental League of Massachusetts (ELM) each year.  ELM has been asking for “1% for the environment,” for many years, yet this rather modest ask has been unsuccessful (We are currently at 0.6%).  A bump up to 1% in the state budget for programs that protect and restore the environment would make a tremendous difference. (BEAT Note: BEAT believes give your 2 cents for the environment would be a more appropriate level of spending, but less than 1% is deplorable!)

 

Please let your state senators and representatives know that you would like them to support the Green Budget, 1% for the environment. Please try to make a phone call (and follow up with an email).  Please do this ASAP because legislators are talking to the Ways and Means committees about what they’d like to see in the FY15 budget.  Thank you – this makes a real difference.

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Macy’s partners with the National Recreation and Park Association to raise funds for local parks nationwide, with every dollar matched by Macy’s, up to $250,000

Springside Park has been selected for “Heart Your Park,” a program introduced as part of Macy’s “Secret Garden” campaign that aims to raise awareness and dollars for local parks across the country. From March 7 to March 31, customers at Macy’s Berkshire Mall Store (655 Cheshire Rd. in Lanesborough) can donate $1 or more at the register, with 100 percent of the donations benefiting Springside Park. To further spread the love, Macy’s will match the total customer donation across all stores, dollar for dollar, up to $250,000 in total.

Springside Park is one of more than 550 parks nationwide that will benefit from Macy’s “Heart Your Park” this spring. In partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the national non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of community parks, recreation and conservation, Macy’s stores across the country have each selected a local park or green space in their community to support through the program. Donations will go toward making improvements, such as maintaining trails, playgrounds, and ball fields, and everything in between.

“We are thrilled to partner with Macy’s and NRPA for ‘Heart Your Park’ this spring,” said Jim McGrath, Pittsfield’s Park and Open Space Program Manager. “Through this wonderful program and donations by Macy’s customers, we are excited about the increased awareness and additional funding for Springside Park. This park is a great asset to the community, and we greatly appreciate Macy’s support.”

“Heart Your Park” is part of Macy’s “Secret Garden” spring campaign that will come to life at Macy’s stores and on macys.com with an infusion of garden-inspired merchandise, special promotions and events. For more information on “Secret Garden,” visit macys.com/secret garden. For a full list of the parks benefiting from Macy’s “Heart Your Park,” visit macys.com/parks.

About Macy’s 

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores — including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California — are known internationally and leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers, employees and Macy’s Foundation, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $70 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

For Macy’s media materials, including images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at macys.com/pressroom.

About National Recreation and Park Association

The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of 40,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.NRPA.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org. or contact Jim McGrath at: (413)-499-9344.

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Land Protected in Otis

from Mass Audubon

Land Protected in Otis

Every now and then, one has the good fortune to cross paths with someone truly special, someone with an unwavering commitment to do all that they can to make this world a better place – both for wildlife and for people. Such is the case in Otis, Massachusetts, where we have collaborated closely for several decades with a very generous private individual with a deep and genuine conservation ethic. What has resulted is nothing short of amazing – the future Cold Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, more than 1,000 acres of diverse habitats and intact forest located on both the east and west sides of the beautiful Farmington River.  <MORE>

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Preliminary Ag Census Findings Report On Ups And Downs of Massachusetts Agriculture

MARLBOROUGH, MA – February 28, 2014 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released preliminary data from its latest Agricultural Census.  The data, which is collected every five years, is used as a resource for evaluating and implementing agricultural policies and programs. Information is collected about such items as the number of farms, acreage, market value of agricultural products and demographics at both the state and national levels. “While there were no huge surprises in the numbers reported, we did see some interesting trends from this census,” said Massachusetts Farm Bureau President, Dr. A. Richard Bonanno.  “What is most encouraging is that there’s been a modest increase in the number of farms in Massachusetts, and along with that, a greater number of acres being farmed.”

MORE FARMS IN MASSACHUSETTS:  In a very suburban state where land prices are a premium, the new census data revealed a reverse to the decades-long trend of diminishing numbers of acres being farmed.  The 2012 results showed an increase of over 5,600 acres in production.  Farm Bureau is especially pleased to note an almost six percent increase in the number of farms that are operating on nine (9) acres or less. “We see a correlation between the increase of these small farms and the MFBF-backed Small Plot Farming Bill,” said Bonanno.  “Our members wanted to take advantage of the strong interest in the “buy local” movement. They came to us with concerns about zoning regulations for smaller operations.  This bill addressed those concerns and made it possible for many of these smaller producers to succeed.”

The country as a whole saw an increase of 38.8% in farm values, however Bay State farmers did not fare as well. Overall, the market value of Massachusetts agriculture is up by a modest one half of one percent (0.5%). This slight increase can be attributed to gains made in the value of all crops including nursery and greenhouse, which were up five (5%) percent.  Crops represent 78% of the total value of agriculture in the state, whereas livestock represents 22% of the value.

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION DOWN:  “It’s disappointing to note that livestock production values are down by 13%,” Bonanno remarked. “While there’s a great demand for locally-raised meats and our farmers are willing and able to meet that demand, our infrastructure is simply unable to support it.”  A December fire at Blood Farm in Groton, MA destroyed one of only two USDA-inspected meat processing facilities in the state, effectively cutting processing capabilities in half.  “As a young farmer, the challenges to starting a livestock business are huge in comparison to producing a crop,” said Ryan MacKay, owner of Lilac Hedge Farm in Berlin, MA which produces beef, pork, lamb and poultry. “Your start-up costs are exponentially higher, and the return on investment takes much longer,” he explained. “Those factors, along with the lack of processing options for red meat and poultry, make it a daunting prospect for many young farmers.  When you take everything into consideration, it’s easy to see why livestock production is down.” MFBF is currently promoting a bill, HD 1736, which offers a solution to the problem by combining state and federal oversight of slaughter within the MA Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR). Similar legislation has been passed in several New England states, with Maine already having doubled the number of processing facilities within the first few years of their program.

NUMBER OF WOMEN-RUN FARMS ON THE RISE: Another noteworthy statistic is the increase in the number of farms that are women-owned.  Of the 7,705 farms in our state, 32.3% (or 2,507) are now run by women. This appears to be a trend that is here to stay.  Consider that in the past decade alone, women ownership of farms has nearly doubled (up from 1,305 in 2002).  “I think it’s great!” exclaimed Jacqui Chamberlain of Chamberlain Farm in Berkley, MA. “Women have taken over and are running the farms now, and if you think about it, it just makes perfect sense.  We’re typically the ones making food choices for our families. Nutrition is important to us and so it only makes sense to become more involved in raising that food.”  She added, “There are lots of great opportunities for women in agriculture.” Chamberlain was recently elected as President of the Bristol County Farm Bureau.

One could argue the point that the first Agricultural Census was taken in 1791 when President George Washington responded to an inquiry from Englishman Arthur Young.  Washington surveyed farmers, asking for information on land values, crops, yields, livestock prices and taxes. Washington was a proponent of establishing a National board of Agriculture, but this idea was rejected by Congress in 1796.  It wasn’t until 1862 when Abraham Lincoln established the USDA, or as he called it, “the people’s department.” The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is the arm of USDA that conducts the research and analyzes the data for the Agricultural Census.

The Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation is a non-profit, member-driven organization representing over 5,000 family members across the Commonwealth. Its mission is “to protect the rights, encourage the growth, and be of service to its members, in the best interest of agriculture.”

Contact: Dr. A. Richard Bonanno, Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, tel. 978-361-5650, fax 508-481-4768, email: rich@mfbf.net, 249 Lakeside Ave., Marlborough, MA 01752

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Gubernatorial Candidates Websites

 

For those who want to learn more about gubernatorial candidates (in alphabetical order by last name), their web sites provide information on their policy positions, campaigns, activities and also opportunities for engagement.

 

Joseph Avellone (D): http://www.avelloneforgovernor.com/

Charlie Baker (R): https://www.charliebaker2014.com/

Donald Berwick (D): http://www.berwickforgovernor.com/

Martha Coakley (D): http://www.marthacoakley.com/

Evan Falchuk (I): http://www.falchuk2014.org/

Mark Fisher (R): http://www.markfisher2014.com/

Steve Grossman (D): http://stevegrossman.com/

Juliette Kayyem (D): http://www.juliettekayyem.com/

Jeffrey McCormick (I): http://www.jmacforgov.org/

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Mothers Out Front Seeking Volunteers in the Berkshires

MOF out front is a grassroots group of mothers and grandmothers mobilizing for a livable climate.

The next step is to hold a few house parties in the Berkshires!  The way these work is that someone will gather mothers and grandmothers (who are not necessarily involved in the environmental movement or even aware of the climate crisis) in their home for a few hours.   A trained Mothers Out Front facilitator comes to the gathering and facilitates.  The hostess usually provides snacks and drinks.  Most people really love these!

We have found that MOF volunteers love working with other mothers/women on this issue and our campaign narrative is deeply rooted in being moms, which is bringing a new dimension to the call for climate action.

Until about a few months ago we were operating out of greater Boston only but now have a team forming in Amherst and others in the Pioneer Valley getting involved.  They’ve held two house parties out of which came 4 more house parties and the beginning of a team.  We make great use of technology — including online trainings and meetings — and are developing a group of people who can support others in building teams in the western part of the State.

I am working with our House Party Facilitation team to see when we will have a facilitator available to host a house party in the Berkshires.

Please let Jane know if you are interested in hosting a house party!

For more information visit http://www.mothersoutfront.org/

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Community Partnership Meetings to increase Natural Resource Based Economic Development & Forest Conservation

Upcoming Community Partnership Meetings being held to discuss an opportunity to increase Natural Resource Based Economic Development & Forest Conservation.  These meetings are the next step in a public outreach process to explore the potential for a new forest designation for 20 towns in Northern Berkshire County and Western Franklin County.  Public input is being incorporated into draft goals and a framework that will be presented and discussed at these Community Partnership Meetings over the next few months.  These meetings are also being held to gather local input on priority areas for forest conservation and natural resource and tourism-based economic development projects.  In addition, they will help us gauge the public level of support for a potential forest designation in each town.  Attached please find a flyer announcing the next three meetings scheduled for North Adams, Adams, and Cheshire.  Additional meetings in Clarksburg, Florida, New Ashford, Savoy, Williamstown and Windsor will be scheduled for March and April.

 

The meeting for North Adams is scheduled for Wednesday, March 12th from 6-8 PM at the McCann Technical School (70 Hodges Cross Road, North Adams).

The meeting for Adams is scheduled for Monday, March 10th from 6-8 PM at the Adams Visitor Center (3 Hoosac Street, Adams).

The meeting for Cheshire is scheduled for Monday, March 24th from 6-8 PM at the Community/Senior Center (119 School Street, Cheshire).

 

You are encouraged to attend the meeting scheduled for your town and join the discussion about the draft framework and specific town concerns and ideas.  We look forward to your participation in this project.  Please pass this information along to other municipal officials, landowners, foresters, businesses, and residents who may be interested in this initiative.  If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

 

Thank you,

Jaclyn

 

Jaclyn M. Pacejo, Planner

Berkshire Regional Planning Commission

1 Fenn Street, Suite 201

Pittsfield, MA 01201

Phone: (413) 442-1521, x32

Fax: (413) 442-1523

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10th Annual Berkshire Garden Symposium

The Berkshire County group of the Western Mass. Master Gardeners is having their 10th annual Berkshire Garden Symposium at the Lenox Memorial Middle and High School on Saturday, April 12, 2014. Attendees choose from 12 different gardening topics, and the fee of $30.00 covers 3 classes, lunch, and breakfast snacks. As this fills up quickly, registrations should be sent in as soon as possible. Registrations and further information can be found on our website: www.wmmga.org .

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Northeast Transportation and Wildlife Conference Presentation Proposal Deadline Extended!

September 21-24, 2014

Burlington, VT

 

The Vermont Agency of Transportation and the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife invite you to submit a presentation proposal for the Northeastern Transportation and Wildlife Conference. Proposals will be accepted until April 1, 2014.

 

This Year’s Theme: Climate Ready? Wildlife and transportation in a changing world.
Sub-themes, for presentation abstracts to focus on:

  • Infrastructure and Flood Resilience
  • Changing Ecology; Adaptation and Migration
  • Adaptive Policy and Planning
  • Regional Collaboration-shared Visions
  • Opportunity Knocks; Low-cost High Benefit Practices
  • A Landscape Approach to Green Infrastructure
  • Crisis Triage: Planning for and Managing the Unexpected
  • New Directions
  • Other

Formats Accepted:

  • NEW! Podium Presentation – a 20-25 minute lecture
  • Workshop-format involves group interaction and hand’s on demonstrations. Speaking time is 1 hour including Q&A.
  • Round Table-format is facilitated informal group discussions. Speaking time is 45 minutes including Q&A.
  • Presentation (1 or 2 presenters)-lecture style format. Speaking time is 1 hour including Q&A.
  • Panel Presentation (3 or more presenters)- lecture style format. Speaking time is 1 hour including Q&A.
  • Poster Session-provide a visual representation of your recent research or ongoing projects. Posters will remain on display fir the duration of NETWC 2014

About the Conference 
In an increasingly interconnected world, the array of issues confronting transportation and wildlife officials have increased dramatically both in terms of frequency and complexity. Maintaining road infrastructure and wildlife populations cannot occur in isolation. Every time a stream flows through a culvert or a moose crosses the median, we see another example of how these networks converge in complex ways and with significant implications to the public’s interests in fish and wildlife conservation as well as a safe, reliable transportation system.

Submit your presentation proposal by April1st to be considered.

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Assist with Ecological Research in the White Mountains of New Hampshire

Work with a team researching the interchange of nutrients between vegetation and soil in the forests of the White Mountains, New Hampshire. Duties include laying out field research plots, digging pits for soil sampling and processing soil and vegetation samples. Requires strenuous outdoor work. Base of operations will be at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in West Thornton, NH, where on-site housing is available. The project supervisor is Dr. Gary M. Lovett.

This position is hourly and non-benefitted with a schedule of Monday -Friday, approximately 35 hours per week. The durations of the position is approximately June 1- August 15, 2014, with extension into the fall possible. Wages will be commensurate with experience.

Qualifications for the position include experience with outdoor ecological field work, with some college courses in ecology, forestry, soil science or environmental science preferred.

To apply, please email a brief cover letter, a resume, and the names and full contact information (including telephone numbers and email addresses) for three professional references to:

 

Human Resources

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

Job Ref. # 14005-I

P.O. Box AB

Millbrook, New York 12545

E-mail: jobs@caryinstitute.org

 

Application closing date is March 7, 2014 or until position is filled.

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Mass Audubon Is Hiring

Check the Mass. Audubon job postings for a wide range of opportunities. There are numerous summer internships for field assistants, wildlife interns, and education interns; as well as part-time summer opportunities for teachers, counselors, adventure trip counselors, and invasive plant crew members. Several full-time jobs are also available.

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Horticulture Internship – The Trustees of Reservations, Southern Berkshires

Idealist.org, posted February 21, 2014

 

The Trustees of Reservations – Southern Berkshires is seeking applicants to participate in the 12-week summer Internship Program. The goal of this program is to provide students of the environmental, botanic and horticulture sciences with practical training and experience during the summer months, and to support the stewardship goals of the Stockbridge Management Unit of The Trustees of Reservations.

 

Two candidates will be chosen to work alongside Trustees staff and will gain practical experience with:

  • maintaining ornamental and natural landscapes
  • gaining a deeper understanding of the issues involved in preserving conserved lands
  • working to preserve cultural resources
  • dealing with the issues involved in public horticulture

 

The internship program will include lectures, demonstrations and work involving Trustees experts, as well as tours of other public gardens and Trustees properties. Interns will be expected to work and/or attend programs 40 hours each week, including some weekends, and will be required to work outdoors and in all weather conditions.

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