Berkshire Environmental Action Team

Discover Greylock Hike
2026-05-15 11:00 - 14:00, 2026-05-22 11:00 - 14:00, 2026-05-29 11:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | 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

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

Pittsfield Farmers Market
2026-05-16 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-05-23 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-05-30 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-06-06 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

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, 2026-05-23 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-05-30 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.

A Nature Year at Pleasant Valley: Spring
2026-05-16 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-23 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-30 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

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.

Building Better Soil: A Three-Part Soil Health Intensive
2026-05-22 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-29 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-05 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

Owls Up Close
2026-05-23 13:00 - 14:15 | Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA
Eyes on Owls presents this fun event!
Everyone loves owls! Come see them up close and enjoy a slide presentation and introduction to six live owls including hooting lessons. Learn about field marks, owl pellets, tips on how to protect owls, and the importance of owls and other birds of prey in the ecosystem. For adults, youth, and children ages 5 and up (accompanied by an adult). Free. Sponsored by the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center and Rescue Franklin County Wildlife, a group of community volunteers committed to raising awareness about the harms of pesticides to birds of prey and encouraging the use of wildlife safe alternatives.
This event is free.
DATE: Saturday, May 23
TIME: 1:00pm – 2:15pm
LOCATION: Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 01376

BNRC/OLLI Joint Hike, Threemile Hill Reserve
2026-05-27 09:30 - 11:30 | Threemile Hill Reserve, Fountain Pond Trailhead, US-7, Great Barrington, MA, 01230, United States
Join the Berkshire Natural Resources Council and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Threemile Hill Reserve for an easy to moderate hike. We will hike the trail one way and carpool back to the south end trailhead on Crissey Road. Registration opens May 11 at 9 am on OLLI’s website.
Find more details and register at this link: https://www.bnrc.org/event/olli-bnrc-joint-hike-3-1-1?blm_aid=895321089
DATE: Wednesday, May 27
TIME: 9:30am – 11:30am
LOCATION: Threemile Hill Reserve, Great Barrington, MA

Letting Nature Lead: The Promise of Passive Rewilding
2026-05-27 18:00 - 19:00 | North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams, MA
Join Shelby Perry of Northeast Wilderness Trust for an informative conversation about forest conservation.

Join us for a conversation about restraint, respect, and the long view of forest conservation.

Passive rewilding is the practice of stepping back and allowing forests to grow and change on their own. In this event, we’ll explore what that looks like in practice, and why it matters.
Together, we’ll consider the benefits of letting natural processes unfold, reflect on the difference between human and forest timescales, and think about the value of future old-growth forests whether or not we’re here to see them.
Shelby Perry is the Wildlands Ecology Director at Northeast Wilderness Trust. She oversees all aspects of the Wildlands Ecology program, which conducts, supports, and shares ecological research pertaining to wildlands and inventories ecological values on the Wilderness Trust’s protected lands. She holds a B.S. in Environmental Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and an M.S. in Plant Biology – Field Naturalist from the University of Vermont, and speaks and presents frequently around the Northeast on wildlands, rewilding, and old forests. When not working in them, Shelby can usually be found playing in wild forests, exploring them on foot, in snowshoes, or through the lens of her camera.
Learn more and register at this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/letting-nature-lead-the-promise-of-passive-rewilding-tickets-1986267147507?aff=oddtdtcreator

DATE: Wednesday, May 27
TIME: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
LOCATION: North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St, North Adams, MA 01247

Calling all Chestnut Fans!
2026-05-30 09:00 - 16:00 | Gould Farm, 100 Gould Road, Monterey, MA, 01245, United States
Join the MA/RI Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation, with support from the Monterey Native Plants Group, to help plant an amazing chestnut seedling orchard!
You are invited to help plant an orchard of 100 specially selected chestnut seedlings that have been hybridized for resistance to the blight that wiped out this keystone species in the early part of the last century.
Gould Farm has been chosen for this large planting (100+ seedlings) as another step toward restoring the iconic American Chestnut to our woodlands. This effort has been ongoing for over 40 years by the American Chestnut Foundation (TACF), a national organization with chapters throughout the historic range of the American Chestnut from Maine to Georgia.
The MA/RI chapter, which has worked closely with the Monterey Native Plants Group on a number of programs, including several annual chestnut talks and nut and seedling distributions, has breeding orchards throughout the state. Last year the MA/RI chapter cross-pollinated the most promising and robust trees in its orchards. It was a labor-intensive effort to take the pollen from the best tree in one orchard and pollinate the best tree in a different orchard. The effort was a success in producing a number of viable nuts. The nuts produced from that effort have been sprouted, potted up and the young seedlings will be ready to plant later this month, on a property near the parking lot of Diane’s Trail on Curtis Road.
The efforts at the state chapter level are accomplished wholly by volunteers. All are invited and welcome to be part of this major restoration effort. All help is greatly appreciated.
For more information, contact John at johnkingfisher54@gmail.com.
DATE: Saturday, May 30 (rain date Sunday, May 31)
TIME: 9:00am – 4:00pm
LOCATION: Parking lot for Diane’s Trail, Gould Farm, Monterey, MA. Orchard located off Curtis Rd, Monterey, MA 01245

Native Plant Giveaway & Exchange at BEAT’s Rain Garden
2026-05-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT), 20 Chapel St., Pittsfield, MA
Like previous years, BEAT will thin out the rain garden this spring at our Environmental Leadership & Education Center, and we’d love to spread some of these native plants out to other areas in Berkshire County!
DATE: Saturday, May 30
TIME: 10 AM to Noon
LOCATION: BEAT’s Environmental Leadership & Education Center, 20 Chapel Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Five years ago, with the help of volunteers, BEAT planted a pollinator-supporting rain garden at our Environmental Leadership & Education Center located along the West Branch Housatonic River in Pittsfield. Not only does this garden collect and filter stormwater before running off and draining to the Housatonic River directly behind our building, but it also supports native pollinators. For the last two years, we have been amazed at how huge and dense the plants get each summer, with blue vervain and other native plants over nine feet tall! The garden is filled with pollinators all summer, and then in the fall, birds feast on the fruit.
We’ll be at BEAT’s Center (20 Chapel Street, Pittsfield) giving out plants from 10 AM to Noon on Saturday, May 30. Feel free to stop by at any time during those hours. Some species that will be available to take home are Sweet Joe-Pye-Weed (Eutrochium purpureum), common sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale), seaside goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens), blue vervain (Verbena hastata), great blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica) and likely a few other species as well. Also, if you have an abundance of native plants in your garden and would like to share them with others, please feel free to bring them along — but it’s also not necessary.

Habitat Chat
2026-06-03 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
