In Wake of COVID-19, Mass Audubon Takes Cost-Cutting Measures, Including Furloughs

LINCOLN, MA.—Mass Audubon, like every public and private institution in Massachusetts and across the country, is confronting enormous challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Since mid-March, our offices and wildlife sanctuaries have been closed and all programs cancelled for the safety of staff and visitors. These actions, while necessary, have led to a substantial loss of income.

Despite implementing many cost-saving initiatives, we have come to the distressing realization that further measures must be taken including furloughing a number of employees and reducing the salaries of remaining staff based on salary levels. All furloughed employees who have health plan coverage through Mass Audubon will continue to receive their current full benefits.

“Mass Audubon’s staff are the very lifeblood of this organization,” Mass Audubon President Gary Clayton said. “I am deeply sorry and very saddened that this is necessary and recognize the immense impact it will have on our extremely dedicated staff and the important work they accomplish.”

Mass Audubon remains just as committed to our statewide conservation work and we will carry on by transitioning to virtual learning for members and the public, safely protecting our wildlife sanctuaries, advocating for the environment at state and federal levels, and continuing to monitor vulnerable wildlife and the habitats they rely upon.

We are incredibly grateful to our members and partners for their continued support to help us get through these challenging times.

“In addressing these daunting financial realities now,” Clayton stressed, “Mass Audubon will emerge stronger and more resilient in our mission to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife.”