Good News Roundup: Bright Spots Across Mass Audubon

Sometimes, a bit of good news is all we need—and fortunately, there’s plenty to celebrate at Mass Audubon. 

Signs of hope, renewal, and progress continue to grow. From new life on our farms to new opportunities for nature access, ecological restoration, and youth leadership, there is so much to celebrate. Check out these recent bright spots to lift your day.

1. Early Signs of Spring Are Arriving 

Even before the calendar says spring, nature begins to whisper that it’s on the way. 

Listen for the two-note song of the Black-capped Chickadee, often described as sounding like “cheeseburger” or “my tree!” These calls begin in late winter as males (and sometimes females) start to establish territory and seek mates. 

Another early sign is the appearance of skunk cabbage, one of Massachusetts’ most unusual native plants. This hardy species generates its own heat, melting snow to push its purple, hooded blooms into the light. Look for it in wetlands and swampy areas—its bright green leaves will emerge soon after. 

Need something more to sweeten the deal? Maple sap is already flowing, with opportunities throughout the state to experience the sugaring process and taste this sweet treat.  

2. A New Accessible All Persons Trail Is Coming to Felix Neck 

Plans for a new Accessible All Persons Trail (APT) at Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary in Edgartown are in the works, offering a fully self-guided, multisensory experience designed for visitors of all abilities. 

The trail will feature braille, audio, and multilingual materials; tactile displays and interpretive stops; accessible wildlife viewing areas; and smooth, wide, crushed stone pathways suitable for mobility devices, strollers, and walkers. 

This new opportunity will make it possible for more people to make meaningful connections with nature at this beloved sanctuary. With 80% of the funding already secured, the project is so close to becoming a reality. You can look forward to its opening and contribute to bring this inclusive experience to life. 

3. Spring Lambs Have Arrived at Drumlin Farm 

The fluffiest signs of spring have made their debut at Drumlin Farm in Lincoln. So far, the farm has welcomed 9 lambs, with more on the way, including a small herd of goat kids who typically arrive later in the spring. These young animals spend their early days nestled in warm barns, stretching their legs, and charming visitors with every tiny bahh. 

Each spring, these new arrivals help connect people to farm life and the rhythms of the seasons. Their presence sparks curiosity, joy, and a renewed sense of wonder. Even more exciting, we’re celebrating the return of Woolapalooza on March 28, Drumlin Farm’s annual sheep festival. Visitors will meet the little lambs, watch live sheep shearing demonstrations, and more.  

4. Two New State Grants Will Restore Land in Boston and Eastham 

There’s uplifting land restoration news for people and wildlife in the city and on the Cape. The Healey Driscoll administration recently awarded two grants supporting major restoration projects in Boston and Eastham. 

At the Boston Nature Center, a $400,000 climate resilience grant will help restore the sanctuary’s wetlands and a portion of nearby Canterbury Brook. Restoring this stream-wetland complex will boost biodiversity, improve water quality, and expand the area’s capacity to absorb stormwater—an important step as climate-driven flooding becomes more frequent. 

Meanwhile, things look hopeful at Boat Meadow Marsh, a salt marsh affected by a century of cranberry farming in Eastham. Mass Audubon and partners received $392,029 through the state’s Salt Marsh Restoration and Monitoring Grants to design a restoration plan for the marsh and former cranberry bog. The project will help repair degraded habitat, support inland marsh migration, and strengthen resilience to sea-level rise.  

5. Young People in Massachusetts Pushing Climate Bills Forward 

For another boost of optimism, look no further than the young people leading our climate future. On February 12, more than 250 high school and college students gathered at the State House for Youth Climate Advocacy Day, organized by the Massachusetts Youth Climate Coalition, advocating for six important climate bills. 

Many participants came through Mass Audubon programs like Youth Climate Leadership Program and the Climate Democracy Project. The day was a resounding success: students met with 53 legislators and staff, many of whom voiced strong support—especially for the Interdisciplinary Climate Literacy Education Bill, one of Mass Audubon’s policy priorities. Their efforts build on earlier momentum, including youth testimony last fall that helped move the bill into the Ways and Means Committee. 

Their passion, clarity, and determination remind us that the next generation is already driving meaningful climate action. 

Finding More Reasons to Celebrate 

While winter can make the world feel a little gray, there’s still so much brightness emerging all around us. From new life and new trails to new restoration projects and new leaders, Mass Audubon continues to work and celebrate wins for people, wildlife, and the planet. 

So, hold strong. Look for early signs of spring, seek out sunshine when you can, and know that together, we’re making real progress toward a healthier, more hopeful future. 

3 Ways to Keep the Good News Flowing: 

1. Support Mass Audubon’s work expanding access to nature, fostering resilient lands, and fighting climate change. Donate

2. Get good news sent directly to your inbox. Join our email list

3. Take a walk outside to remind yourself of all the good growing near you. Get outdoors