Berkshire Environmental Action Team

Lee’s 10th Annual Greener Gateway Cleanup and Work Day
2026-04-25 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | First Congregational Church – Lee, 25 Park Plaza, Lee, MA, 01238
Help celebrate the 56th Earth Day with the Lee Greener Gateway Committee!
To help care for our corner of the planet, we have great options for volunteers:
– Roadside cleanup
– Removing invasive plants
– Town garden cleanup
– Community garden prep
– Bag share – make long-lasting bags (to keep or for donation)
To volunteer, email: valeria4748@gmail.com
Bring your own gloves and dress tick-smart!
DATE: Saturday. April 25
TIME: 10:00am – 12:00pm
RAIN DATE: Sunday, April 26; 1:00pm – 3:00pm
LOCATION: Church Park Pavilion, 25 Park Pl, Lee, MA 01238

Spring Ephemeral Botany Walk
2026-04-25 13:00 - 15:00 | Field Farm Guest House, 554 Sloan Road, Williamstown, MA, 01267, United States
Join Women on the Land for an educational wildflower walk! Early spring is an exciting time, and the changing of the seasons is often marked by the emergence of spring ephemeral wildflowers. These plants have a short window of time in which they bloom, often appearing after the melting of snow but before trees leaf out. Spring ephemerals are especially diverse in rich hardwood forests, which are common throughout Berkshire County. Women on the Land will be joined by Peter Grima, DCR Service Forester and botanist, to explore the wonder of these short-lived blooms at Field Farm, a mix of fields and forests overlying limestone bedrock. You will learn about the ecology, identification, and beauty of these plants that, if you aren’t there at the right time, you’ll miss them until next year!
Registrants should come prepared for potentially wet/muddy trail conditions. The walk will cover 2-3 miles on existing trails over more or less level terrain. Optional items include a hand lens, binoculars, and wildflower field guide.
Register at this link: https://tinyurl.com/SpringEphemeralWalk.
DATE: Saturday, April 25
TIME: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
LOCATION: Field Farm Reservation, Williamstown, MA

A Nature Year at Pleasant Valley: Spring
2026-04-25 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-02 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-09 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Mass Audubon Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA, 01240, United States
Immerse yourself in a season of local natural history. With a skilled Mass Audubon naturalist as your guide, experience the cycle of the seasons at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lenox. Gain extensive natural history knowledge, form a community with like-minded, curious adults, and receive the many benefits of spending time outdoors.
Throughout the spring, explore spectacular seasonal phenomena including the migration of salamanders and songbirds.
We will usually start inside with an introduction and then head out for our adventure in the field which will be at least 90 minutes outside. We’ll travel mainly on trails and boardwalks, actively exploring and experiencing various habitats and sanctuary spots.
Adult Program

Registration covers 3 classes starting April 18.
Learn more and register at this link: https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/pleasant-valley/98862-a-nature-year-at-pleasant-valley-spring-3-months
DATES/TIMES: Sat. April 18, 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Sat. May 16, 7:00am – 9:00am; Sat. June 20, 8:00pm – 10:00pm
LOCATION: Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 W Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA 01240

Building Better Soil: A Three-Part Soil Health Intensive
2026-05-01 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-08 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-15 10:00 - 16:00 | Mount Wachusett Community College, 444 Green St., Gardner, MA
Join the Northeast Organic Farming Situation, Massachusetts Chapter, for a 3 part series exploring the living world beneath our feet!
Healthy soil is the foundation of productive farms and gardens. In this three-part Soil Health Intensive, participants will explore the living world beneath our feet and learn practical strategies for building resilient, fertile soil. Together we’ll uncover the foundational principles that support thriving growing spaces while examining the physical, chemical, and biological pillars of soil health.
Each workshop will focus on one of these core soil properties and introduce practical tools, observations, and management strategies that growers can apply in their own farms, gardens, and landscapes.
The series will take place at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner, MA. While attending all three sessions provides the most complete learning experience, participants are welcome to attend one, two, or all three workshops throughout the season. Please see individual event pages for details.
This educational series is supported by the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), which helps farmers explore soil-building practices and provides resources for those interested in transitioning to organic production.
Learn more and register at this link: https://www.nofamass.org/series/building-better-soil-a-three-part-soil-health-intensive/
DATE: Friday, April 17 | Friday, May 29 | Friday, June 26
TIME: 10:00am – 4:00pm
LOCATION: Mount Wachusett Community College, 444 Green Street, Gardner, MA 01440

Habitat Chat
2026-05-06 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
The Massachusetts Pollinator Network hosts monthly drop-in, informal meetings for participants from across the state to learn about topics relevant to our work, share projects, ask questions, and exchange knowledge, ideas, and updates.
Whether you’re a seasoned community organizer, a home gardener, work in the field already, or are new to pollinator protection concerns, all are welcome! Stay for the entire meeting or just pop in for what you can.

To receive the zoom link, please register here.
DATE: First Wednesday of each month
TIME: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
LOCATION: Online via Zoom

Community Garden Opening Day at Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary
2026-05-07 09:00 - 12:00 | Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, 309 Holmes Rd., Pittsfield, MA
Help Mass Audubon open the Community Garden for the season at Canoe Meadows!
Volunteers will assist with preparing and refreshing garden beds so they are ready for planting in the weeks ahead. Come enjoy a productive morning outdoors and help set the stage for a successful growing season.
Learn more and register at this link: https://volunteer.massaudubon.org/need/detail/?need_id=1232945
DATE: Thursday, May 7
TIME: 9:00am – 12:00pm
LOCATION: Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, 350 Williams Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201

Kidleidoscope Story Hour - Fish
2026-05-08 10:30 - 11:30 | Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA
The Great Falls Discovery Center is hosting a fun event for children to learn more about our wildlife neighbors in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, activities, and crafts. Activities are indoors and outdoors, weather permitting. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult, siblings and friends are welcome. Meet in the Great Hall.
This program is free.
DATE: Friday, May 8
TIME: 10:30am – 11:30am
LOCATION: Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 01376

Discover Greylock Hike
2026-05-08 11:00 - 14:00, 2026-05-15 11:00 - 14:00 | Mount Greylock State Reservation
Join Mount Greylock State Reservation for a lively hike!
Suitable for ages 8 and older. Explore seasonal changes in the forest, look for signs of wildlife, and discover unique natural and cultural features along easy-moderate trails. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, a snack, bug spray and sunscreen. Trekking poles are recommended. Inclement weather cancels. Meeting locations vary. For more information and to register, call the Visitor Center at (413) 499-4262.
This event is free.
DATE: Friday, May 8 | Friday, May 22 | Friday, May 29
TIME: 11:00am – 2:00pm
LOCATION: Meeting locations vary

Pittsfield Farmers Market
2026-05-09 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-05-16 09:00 - 13:00 | Pittsfield Common, 100 1st St., Pittsfield, MA
Every Saturday through October, rain or shine!
Find more details here: farmersmarketpittsfield.org
DATE: Saturday, May 9 – Saturday, October 31
TIME: 9:00am – 1:00pm
LOCATION: The Common, 100 First St, Pittsfield, MA 01201

Volunteer: Help Restore Habitat for Rare Berkshire Butterflies + Invasive Garlic Mustard Removal
2026-05-09 09:30 - 12:00 | Pittsfield, MA
Help remove an invasive plant that threatens the small native plants found in our forests’ understory and contribute to an ongoing study of rare Berkshire butterflies!
Join BEAT for a meaningful volunteer event focused on removing invasive garlic mustard and supporting two rare butterfly species found in the Berkshires: the Veined White (Pieris napi oleracea) and the West Virginia White (Pieris virginiensis).
DATE: Saturday, May 9
TIME: 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM
LOCATION: We will meet at the parking area on New Lenox Road in Pittsfield. The parking area is on the right side of the road, about 2.2 miles from the Route 7 intersection. Coordinates: 42.3915910, -73.2267858 (Google Maps link)
This effort supports Jessica Duffy’s community science research, which is studying how garlic mustard removal affects these butterfly populations over time. By participating, you’ll be directly contributing to the preservation of important native habitats.
What to Expect:

A brief overview of garlic mustard and the native toothwort plant it threatens
Small group garlic mustard pulling, with plants bagged for industrial composting
Complimentary coffee and snacks to start the day — please bring your own travel mug!
Gloves and bags provided — please bring a full water bottle, wear sturdy footwear, and dress for the weather

This volunteer opportunity is open to individuals of all ages. Families, school groups, and organizations are encouraged to attend and help out.
If you missed Jessica’s Green Drinks talk in March 2025 about this project, you can watch the presentation on BEAT’s YouTube channel to learn more. Watch it here.
RSVP: Email team@thebeatnews.org to let us know you’ll be joining us!

Park Serve Day: Pick a Park, Give a Day, Make a Difference
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA
The Department of Conservation and Recreation invites you to the Great Falls Discovery Center to lend a hand during this day of volunteer service to our state parks. Bring your own water and snack. For registration visit mass.gov/info-details/dcr-park-serve-day. For ages 6 and up. Meet at the main entrance.
DATE: Saturday, May 9
TIME: 10:00am – 12:00pm
LOCATION: Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 01376

Berkshire Botanical Garden Spring Fest
2026-05-09 10:00 - 16:00 | Berkshire Botanical Garden, 5 West Stockbridge Rd., Stockbridge, MA
Join the Berkshire Botanical Garden for a full day of family fun at SpringFest on Saturday, May 9. The day’s activities include Best Damn Espresso and Cousins Maine Lobster food trucks, craft vendors, a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, and children’s activities. We will also celebrate our most recent Horticulture Certificate graduates with the Herb Associates’ celebrated herb-infused cookies and the Mai Bowle, a traditional May wine punch, fragrant, refreshing and a perfect toast to spring.
Learn more at this link: https://www.berkshirebotanical.org/events/springfest
DATE: Saturday, May 9
TIME: 10:00am – 4:00pm
LOCATION: Berkshire Botanical Garden, 5 W Stockbridge Rd, Stockbridge, MA 01262

Nice and Easy Mother’s Day Hike
2026-05-10 11:00 - 13:00 | Mount Greylock State Reservation
Join Mount Greylock State Reservation for a scenic hike on Mother’s Day!
All ages welcome. Join DCR Interpreter Caroline this Mother’s Day in celebration of Moms and Mother Nature by appreciating the gifts that all mothers provide. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of forested trails at Mount Greylock, while rejuvenating your mind, body, and spirit in the fresh mountain air. Easy-moderate 1–2-mile hike. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Bring water, a snack, bug spray, and sunscreen. Inclement weather cancels. For more information and to register, call (413) 499-4262.
This event is free.
DATE: Sunday, May 10
TIME: 11:00am – 1:00pm
LOCATION: Mount Greylock State Reservation, 30 Rockwell Rd, Lanesborough, MA 01237

Growing Wildlife-Friendly Gardens
2026-05-13 18:00 - 19:30 | The Mount, 2 Plunkett St, Lenox, MA, 01240, United States
Join Mass Audubon for a gardening workshop!
At this workshop, discover native and pollinator-friendly flowers, shrubs and trees that grow well in the Berkshires and provide essential food and shelter for native insects and birds. Learn why sustainable landscaping can help wildlife in the Berkshires, then hear ideas, design tips, and lists of garden-worthy natives that can help you choose plants well-suited to your site.
This program is primarily indoors, but may have a short outdoor component at the end to explore plants on-site. See “Instructions and Directions” below for more information on the site where this program will take place.
Learn more and register at this link: https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/pleasant-valley/101681-growing-wildlife-friendly-gardens?utm_source=pv_apr26_programblast&utm_medium=email+&utm_id=programs
This event costs $15-$20.
DATE: Wednesday, May 13
TIME: 6:00pm – 7:30pm
LOCATION: The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home, 2 Plunkett St, Lenox, MA 01240

Forms and Transformations in the Butterfly World
2026-05-15 19:00 - 20:30 | Old Town Hall, 9 Main St, West Stockbridge, MA, 01266, United States
The West Stockbridge Historical Society Presents: Forms and Transformations in the Butterfly World.
Next up in the Berkshire Nature Talk Series:
Ryan Shea, The Nature Institute
Butterflies are among nature’s most captivating organisms, dazzling us with their colors, patterns, and the remarkable transformation from caterpillar to winged adult. But what can they teach us about the deeper rhythms of the natural world? In this talk, Ryan Shea invites us to slow down and truly observe butterflies: to notice how their shapes and colors shift and transform, and to help us discover a “living understanding of nature.” He draws on an approach to nature observation developed by the German writer and scientist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, which asks us to follow what we actually see rather than jump to explanation.
About the Speaker: Ryan Shea is a researcher and educator at The Nature Institute in Ghent, New York, where he explores how people can develop a deeper, more meaningful connection with the natural world — with a special focus on plants and insects.
$10 suggested donation for nonmembers.
DATE: Friday, May 15
TIME: 7:00pm – 8:30pm
LOCATION: Old Town Hall, 9 Main St, West Stockbridge, MA 01266

Bird Walk
2026-05-16 09:00 - 12:00 | The Spruces, 60 Main St., Williamstown, MA
Join Bee Friendly Williamstown for a morning bird walk at the height of spring migration. Naturalist and avid birder David McGowan will help us understand what we see and hear around us during this busy bird season.
To learn more, visit https://www.beefriendlywilliamstown.org/home.
DATE: Saturday, May 16
TIME: 9:00am
LOCATION: The Spruces, 60 Main St, Williamstown, MA 01267

Complete Approaches to Fertility: Soil to Foliar
2026-05-16 09:00 - 16:00 | Big River Chestnuts New Field, 0 Settright Road, Deerfield, MA, 01373, United States
Join the Massachusetts chapter of the Northeast Organic Farming Association for an all day event about soil!
Your farm’s fertility plan doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the right tools and approach, it can be grounded, methodical, informed and even fun.
In this full-day, hands-on workshop, we’ll explore practical ways to assess soil health and develop effective fertility strategies, with a focus on agroforestry systems. The morning will center on building a clear, functional understanding of soil health through biological, physical, and chemical lenses. Participants will practice simple, field-based assessments to better understand compaction, soil structure, and nutrient dynamics, and discuss amendment and management strategies that support soil function over time, especially in degraded or transitioning landscapes.
After lunch, we’ll shift our focus to foliar sprays: liquid nutrient and biological applications applied directly to plant leaves. Foliar sprays can be a powerful tool on any farm, and particularly in agroforestry systems, where perennial crops, young trees, and compromised soils often benefit from targeted, responsive nutrition. Used thoughtfully, they can help support plant health, improve nutrient uptake, and reduce stress while longer-term soil improvements take hold. Participants will learn how to choose appropriate foliar strategies, mix and apply sprays, and evaluate their effectiveness in the field.
This event is free.
Register online at this link: https://secure.givelively.org/event/northeast-organic-farming-association-massachusetts-chapter/2026-education-events/complete-approaches-to-fertility-soil-to-foliar
To learn more, visit https://www.nofamass.org/event/complete-approaches-to-fertility-soil-to-foliar/
DATE: Saturday, May 16
TIME: 9:00am – 4:00pm
LOCATION: Big River Chestnuts New Field, 0 Settright Road, Deerfield, MA 01373

Forest, Fields, and Waterfalls Hike
2026-05-16 10:00 - 12:30 | Tamarack Hollow Nature & Cultural Center, 1515 & 1516 Savoy Hollow Rd., Windsor, MA
Join Tamarack Hollow Nature & Cultural Center in Windsor, MA for an informative hike! Learn about the unique fauna and flora of high elevation forests and fields plus a visit to Georgie’s Falls on this 2 mile hike with Naturalist & Director Aimee Gelinas.
To register, email full_circle_o@yahoo.com. To learn more, visit www.tamarackhollow.org.
This event costs $20.
DATE: Saturday, May 16 | Saturday, June 6
TIME: 10:00am – 12:30pm
LOCATION: Tamarack Hollow Nature & Cultural Center, 1515 Savoy Hollow Rd, Windsor, MA 01270

Open House at Old Maid's Park
2026-05-16 13:00 - 15:00 | MA
When: Saturday, May 16 @ 1-3PM – (Rain Date: Sunday, May 17 @ 1-3PM)
Where: Old Maid’s Park is located at 30 Wyantenuck St, Housatonic, MA 01236
What to Expect:

Delicious food from Cocinera Latinas

Face painting!

Live music to relax and enjoy the setting

Native Plant Identification Walk — learn how to recognize common native species and understand their role in supporting local ecosystems

Macroinvertebrate Identification — discover the small aquatic creatures living in the pond and what they reveal about water quality and ecosystem health

Activities for all ages, with plenty for families to enjoy together

What You Can Bring:

Blankets or lawn chairs, toys and games for kids
A spirit of connection and community

This project is centered on listening to the community—how the park is cared for, how people access and use it, and what its future could look like. Through events like this open house, BEAT is creating space for people to come together, share ideas, and help shape the park’s future.

Volunteer to Plant Trees at Pleasant Valley!
2026-05-19 09:00 - 12:00 | Mass Audubon Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA, 01240, United States
Join Mass Audubon for a hands-on volunteer project at Pleasant Valley as we work together to restore and improve wildlife habitat through native tree and shrub planting in key areas of our campus. Volunteers will help support biodiversity, improve ecosystem health, and create important habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife.
This is a wonderful opportunity to spend time outdoors, make a meaningful impact on the landscape, and connect with others who care about conservation and the natural world. No prior experience is necessary. All are welcome!
Please come prepared for outdoor work with sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, and gloves if you have them.
To learn more and register, visit this link: https://volunteer.massaudubon.org/need/detail/?need_id=1263005
DATE: Tuesday, May 19
TIME: 9:00am – 12:00pm
LOCATION: Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA 01240

Act on Climate with 350Mass Berkshires
2026-05-20 18:00 | Online
Join members of 350Mass, the local climate group, at their monthly zoom meetings (and sometimes in-person) for good conversation and effective action. Learn about their efforts to promote affordable renewable energy and sustainable building practices in our schools, homes, and municipalities.
The group meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday at 6:00 pm and is always looking for new people to bring ideas, brainstorm clever actions, and help implement current initiatives.
Please join and you will be made welcome! To contact us and get the Zoom link, email at: berkshires@350mass.org
DATES: 3rd Wednesdays
TIME: 6:00 PM
LOCATION: Online via Zoom

Explore the Nighttime World of Caterpillars & Moths
2026-05-20 19:00 - 20:30 | Online
The Caterpillar Lab will present a photograph and video packed talk that explores the nighttime world of caterpillars, moths, and how to find them. Join us to learn how we can explore our own backyard habitats through the eyes of a moth, using UV and special light traps to uncover a whole new perspective. This special lecture will include time to meet a few special caterpillar specimens up close and, and chat with Caterpillar Lab educators about all things local caterpillar.
The Caterpillar Lab is a non-profit based in New Hampshire that fosters greater appreciation and care for the complexity and beauty of natural history through live caterpillar educational programs, research initiatives, and photography and film projects. They believe that an increased awareness of one’s local environment is the foundation on which healthy and responsible attitudes towards the broader natural systems of this world are built.

Sign Up for Zoom

DATE: Wednesday, May 20
TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
LOCATION: Online via Zoom

Nature’s Palette: A Riverwalk Experience
2026-05-21 17:00 - 18:00 | Linear Park, Williamstown, MA
Participate in a creativity-inspiring riverside walk in honor of Art Week. Create a palette of colors you find and make up amusing names to accompany them. Draw a riverine critter you find while turning stones. Sing a song we make up as we travel along. Fun for all. Families with children of all ages welcome. Join HooRWA and naturalist Arianna Alexsandra Collins on Thursday, May 21 from 5-6pm for this whimsical excursion.
Meet at Linear Park, 24 Water Street, Route 43 in Williamstown, MA.
This Art Week program is free and open to all. No registration necessary.
