Where We’ve Been...
Across the Berkshires, your support is helping more people connect with nature, strengthening our landscapes, and protecting places that matter—now and for the future. Here’s a look at what you’ve made possible, and where we’re headed next together.
Making Nature Accessible to All
Pleasant Valley’s All Persons Trail (APT) was expanded to nearly a mile in length and includes a longer boardwalk as well as inclusive, multisensory, and interactive displays along the route that support educational programs and open even more of Pleasant Valley to people of all ages and abilities.
Helping to Educate our Youth
We brought hands-on, nature-based science learning to schools across the Berkshires. For many students, these programs are their first meaningful experience in nature—sparking curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors.
Where We're Going
Stewarding the Land
The Climate Resilience Trail Project is our proactive response to changing weather patterns and increased foot traffic. Through thoughtful trail improvements, better drainage, and targeted restoration, we’re working to protect Pleasant Valley’s trails, make them safer and more resilient, and ensure continued access for generations to come.
Access to Nature Programs this Spring and Summer
The Berkshires offer fantastic programs for all ages through-out the year. Choose from a wide variety of weekly offerings including Sunset Beaver Walks, Evening Amphibian Searches, Firefly Watches for the whole family and birding programs for any level; from curious beginners to seasoned birders.
Protecting Palmer Brook Land in Becket
Palmer Brook —known locally as the Berkshire Fishing Club—is a remarkable 850-acre property in Becket, offering a rare opportunity to protect a large, unfragmented forested landscape. Situated within a 26,000-acre conservation corridor and adjacent to October Mountain State Forest, this land plays a critical role in protecting wildlife habitat at scale.
In February 2026, Mass Audubon took an exciting step forward by exercising our option agreement to purchase the Palmer Brook property for $5 million. Thanks to strong early momentum, $2.5 million has already been committed through public support.
With this foundation in place, we are now working to secure the remaining private support needed to complete the acquisition. This is a pivotal moment—one where the continued support of this community will help ensure this landscape is protected for generations to come.
Because of you, more people are connecting with nature, more students are discovering the outdoors, and more landscapes are being protected across the Berkshires.
Thank you for being part of this community—and for all you make possible.
Read the full year in review below:
Stay Connected
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