Conserving & Protecting Land

Mass Audubon actively protects over 43,000 acres in Massachusetts.

Land conservation is critical to the survival of native wildlife and plants and for the health and well-being of those who live, work, and play in Massachusetts. It's also one of the most effective, proven strategies when it comes to mitigating the increasing impacts of climate change.

We've been protecting wild places across the state for more than a century using our science-based land conservation strategy.

Mass Audubon’s Land Conservation Strategy

For decades, we have considered many factors when it comes to protecting land. These can include adjacency to a wildlife sanctuary, the presence of rare and endangered species, proximity to existing protected land, and number of acres.

More recently, to align with the state’s goal of protecting 30 percent of land by 2030 (30x30), we are additionally prioritizing biodiverse and carbon-rich parcels as well as those in urban areas.

Meadow and pond with a small building with kayaks in the distance — Palmer Brook

Your Support Needed: Palmer Brook

We have the opportunity to protect a new wildlife sanctuary in Becket—but need your help.

Protect Palmer Brook

How We Protect Land

We protect land by working with land trusts, municipalities, government agency partners, and private landowners.

For Land Protection Partners: Catalyst Fund

Mass Audubon created the 30x30 Catalyst Fund to enable us to move quickly in protecting 30% of Massachusetts' land, in particular the most biodiverse and carbon-rich lands that are also at risk of development. Land trusts, cities or towns, or agencies can partner with us to leverage land protection opportunities via the Catalyst Fund. Learn more about the 30 x 30 Catalyst Fund

For Private Landowners

There are many ways to permanently protect your land, including a donation or sale of the ownership of the land, or of a perpetual conservation restriction (easement). Learn more about conserving your land

Land Trust Accreditation Renewal Public Notice

Mass Audubon is pleased to announce it is applying for renewal of its land trust accreditation. The land trust accreditation program recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. A public comment period is now open. Find out more