Support the Brockton High Envirothon Team

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UPDATE: Thanks to the generosity of the Brockton and Wildlands communities, our Giving Tuesday campaign met its goal, raising $3,000 for this year’s Brockton High Envirothon Team!

The funds will help Brockton High School students find and follow their passion for the environment through weekly meetings and field trips, including to the Massachusetts Envirothon in May.

“We are looking forward to having new materials in the classroom to engage our students in hands-on learning and exploration,” said Wildlands Programming Coordinator Amy Burt, who co-coaches Brockton High Envirothon with environmental educators at Manomet Conservation Sciences. “Our students’ access to the natural world will be enhanced and expanded due to your support. Thank you!“

Thank you to all who donated! Learn more about our campaign below, and about Brockton High Envirothon at wildlandstrust.org/envirothon.

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By Thomas Patti, Communications Coordinator

Wildlands Trust believes that the natural health and beauty of Southeastern Massachusetts can only persist with an educated and empowered youth. For 10 years, Wildlands has coached and sponsored the Brockton High School Envirothon Team to prepare the next generation of local conservation champions. We need your help so this program can continue to advance environmental awareness, leadership, equity, and resilience in our region’s largest and most diverse city.

Since 2015, in collaboration with the Brockton High School science department and environmental educators at Manomet, Wildlands has trained dedicated cohorts of Brockton students for the Massachusetts Envirothon, an annual statewide competition "emphasizing hands-on, team-oriented problem solving and community involvement that prepares young people for environmental careers and active citizenship.” The Brockton High School Envirothon Team has delivered impressive performances over the years, including fifth place overall in 2015, first place in the Current Issue category in 2018, and the Community Research Award in 2022. 

> Donate to support Brockton High Envirothon here.

The Envirothon Team meets weekly after school to build knowledge and skills assessed during the spring competition’s “ecostations” in forest, soils, wildlife, and water. Additionally, the team completes and presents a community action project around a Current Issue, which this year is “Forest Stewardship: Resilience for a Changing Climate.”

This year’s Brockton High Envirothon Team studies a water sample from a local pond.

In total, the Brockton High School Envirothon Team has engaged well over 100 students in natural resource education and community service. Many have continued in the conservation field through college and beyond. 

Testimonials

Don’t believe us about the real-world impact of Brockton High Envirothon and our other youth programs? Take it from the kids themselves, many of whom have gone on to pursue studies and careers in the conservation field.

Nicole Mejia participated in both the Brockton High School Envirothon Team and the Brockton Green Team, Wildlands’ summer service-learning program, from 2016 to 2018. Now, Nicole is earning her PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Cornell University, where she studies developmental factors of birds’ response to climate change. She credits Envirothon and Green Team as formative experiences in her personal, academic, and professional journey.  

“The time I spent on the Envirothon Team was life-changing,” Nicole said. “Getting to interact with state scientists, learn new things about the Brockton community, and have a group of peers who cared as much about the environment as I did were some of my favorite parts. It is such an important program for students coming from Brockton, who may not have access to the outdoors but do feel that passion for conservation and nature.”

Alyce Watts participated in Envirothon from 2018 to 2022 and Green Team in 2019. She joined Envirothon “to learn about aspects of the environment that I was really interested in, but otherwise wouldn't have learned.” Alyce is now a sophomore at Colorado College, where she studies Organismal Biology & Ecology.

“The skills I gained in Envirothon have been priceless for how I've developed as a student since graduating Brockton High,” Alyce said. “The confidence I have in my ability to take a leadership role as well as in presenting work that I have done are heavily attributed to the work we did in Envirothon. My experiences in Envirothon encouraged me to be more ambitious in the goals I have set for my future, as it opened my eyes to career options I didn't know existed prior to my time in the club.”

Lily Green, Science Educator at Manomet Conservation Sciences, may know better than anyone the importance of Brockton High Envirothon. As a participant in 2014-15 and a coach since 2023, Lily has experienced the program’s benefits from multiple perspectives.

“As a student, Envirothon strengthened my interest I started to have from the regular school curriculum and gave me time to dive deeper into different aspects of sustainability,” Lily said. “The rigorous school day curriculum is tight, so it’s great to give new generations of Brockton youth a real-world experience and a chance to make an impact.”

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Support the Brockton High School Envirothon Team so more students can find and pursue their passion for the environment—and in turn, defend the natural resources that uplift our communities. The program’s expenses are modest, including weekly snacks, teaching materials, and field trips, but its impact is large, shaping the next generation of conservation leaders in Southeastern Massachusetts and beyond. Learn more & donate here.

Land Protection Course Prepares Next Generation of Conservation Doers

Zoë Smiarowski (far left) and her team went on a field trip to the Chiltonville village of Plymouth during the land protection course’s retreat weekend at the Stewardship Training Center.

By Zoë Smiarowski, Stewardship Programs Manager 

In the winter of 2022, while dreaming up ways that Wildlands Trust’s new Stewardship Training Center (STC) could support Massachusetts’ conservation community, the STC Advisory Committee agreed on the incredible need to develop our next generation of land protection professionals—the ones who strategize, communicate, and execute opportunities to save natural and agricultural lands from development. One committee member, Dr. Paul Catanzaro, had taught land protection classes at UMass Amherst, but there was motivation from these discussions to create a course for both students and professionals.  

“One of the greatest gaps our STC advisors identified was the very limited opportunities for people to learn the practical nuts and bolts of land conservation transactions,” said Wildlands President Karen Grey. “How could we feed the pipeline of land protection professionals without more training and education opportunities?” 

With this seed of an idea planted, conservation community partners came together to help it grow. Sponsored by UMass Extension, the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition, and Mass Audubon, with support from the Trustees of Reservations, MA DCR’s Working Forest Initiative, and Wildlands Trust, “Land Protection Tools & Techniques” was a 10-session course co-taught by Christa Collins (formerly of Sudbury Valley Trustees) and Olivia Lukacic (of the Trustees of Reservations) over the fall of 2024. Admitted through a competitive application process, the 22 course participants included municipal employees, land trust stewardship professionals, environmental science college students, and more. Lessons addressed core land protection skills, including Landowner Outreach & Relationships, Project Selection, Partnerships, Transactions, Due Diligence, and Finance.  

Field trip during the land protection course’s retreat weekend, attended by Wildlands Land Protection Assistant Tess Goldmann (second from right) and Director of Land Protection Scott MacFaden (far right).

At the end of the semester, the class convened at the STC for a weekend-long retreat. Students networked with each other and practicum leaders, including Rob Warren, formerly of the Trustees of Reservations, and our very own Karen Grey. To gain hands-on experience after weeks of virtual training, students went on field trips across Plymouth to meet landowners with whom Wildlands has worked on land protection projects. This was an incredible opportunity to learn by doing, which is how many in the land protection field have launched and advanced their careers.  

As a student in the course, I relished the opportunity to learn how land gets protected in Massachusetts. As Wildlands’ Stewardship Programs Manager, I am fortunate to care for the diversity of conservation land in the Trust's portfolio. Entering my second year with Wildlands, I developed a curiosity about the many intricate steps it takes for valuable and vulnerable land to enter our stewardship. I was particularly interested in the people-centered aspect of land protection, as it mirrors my current job of connecting volunteers and professionals with land stewardship knowledge and skills. As I advance through my career, I am always looking for new ways to challenge myself and diversify my contributions to conservation goals, and this course was a great opportunity to do just that. 

Indeed, one of the most valuable things I learned in the class was the importance of people to the land protection process. Understanding landowners’ unique connections to place and building soft communication skills are critical parts of the equation. Even though we had spent weeks hearing and reading about foundational land protection knowledge, being “thrown out” into the world to meet face-to-face with landowners was an immense learning experience. 

Field trip during the land protection course’s retreat weekend.

Additionally, students had to complete a final project that addressed a personal learning goal in the land protection field. Wildlands’ Land Protection Assistant Tess Goldmann and I wanted experience in grant-writing, a crucial component of financing land protection projects. At the end of the retreat, students shared their projects with the class. I was highly impressed with my classmates’ work and left feeling grateful to have such a dedicated community of conservation-minded folks in my network. 

The Monday morning following the retreat, I was relaying my excitement to Wildlands board member and key volunteer Marilynn Atterbury about how incredible the class has been. My understanding and appreciation of land protection work has undergone a night-and-day transformation through this class. As my career progresses, I am grateful to have this foundational knowledge to advocate and help others understand the state’s abundance of land protection options. I have no doubt that this course will provide long-term support to the Massachusetts land conservation field. We are so fortunate to have incredible mentors, teachers, and students ready to take on any challenge to ensure a healthy, connected environment in their communities.  

Leadership Council Fall Supper: Chowder, Oysters, and Gratitude

Wildlands President Karen Grey addresses the Leadership Council at this year’s fall supper.

On October 26, members of Wildlands Trust’s Leadership Council gathered at Davis-Douglas Farm in Plymouth for our annual fall supper, where we thank those who provide higher-level donor support for our mission of regional land conservation. 

On the gorgeous fall evening, about 80 generous individuals were treated to clam chowder, fresh oysters, wine, assorted desserts, and, most importantly, the camaraderie and good cheer of Southeastern Massachusetts’ most ardent conservation supporters. Wildlands board member and key volunteer Marilynn Atterbury crafted flower arrangements and other stunning decorations for the event, turning the Community Conservation Barn into a cozy yet elegant autumnal venue. 

Wildlands key volunteer Marilynn Atterbury crafted flowers and other decorations for the event.

Before dinner, Wildlands Trust board chair Sam Chapin addressed the Leadership Council, expressing deep gratitude for their generosity while looking ahead to a promising future made possible by their support. 

“The annual Leadership Council dinner is a wonderful opportunity to thank our donors for their support,” Chapin said. “The oysters, chowder, and company were all great!  I was particularly pleased to speak with a number of new people at this year's event.” 

Wildlands board chair Sam Chapin delivers remarks to the Leadership Council.

Later in the evening, Wildlands President Karen Grey recognized members of the Leadership Council who made remarkable contributions to our mission this year. In true Wildlands fashion, she gifted these high-impact individuals with hammers, so they can carry on their hard work. 

The fall supper is one of two annual events that Wildlands Trust holds to honor the Leadership Council, the other being a preserve tour each spring. 

Karen Grey awards an honorary hammer at the Leadership Council fall supper.

We hope you will join this special community! To learn more, visit wildlandstrust.org/leadership-council or contact Donor Relations Manager Sue Chamberlain at schamberlain@wildlandstrust.com or 774-343-5121 x114. 

Spooky Stories from the Halloween Night Hike

Willow Brook Farm in Pembroke.

On Friday, October 25, courageous hikers from across Southeastern Massachusetts will descend on Striar Conservancy in Halifax for a Halloween Night Hike, Wildlands’ annual evening stroll brimming with frights and thrills (but mostly laughs, nature appreciation, and good company).

Click here to register—if you dare…

Below is a preview of the tales hike leaders Amy Burt and Paul Vicino will share on the hike. If you’re joining us, we recommend waiting until then to hear these stories in full fright-tastic effect! But if not, enjoy these spine-chilling tales, and feel free to pass them along to fellow fans of the macabre.

Happy Halloween from Wildlands Trust!

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A Hair-Raising Hike in the Appalachians

By Amy Burt, Programming Coordinator

Every year, people embark on the Appalachian Trail and return safely, each with their own story to tell. There are those who have been less fortunate, either living to tell the tale, or leaving the living to solve the pieces. In the fall of 2003, a young woman (name redacted for privacy) left to explore only a portion of a trail in Western Massachusetts. She planned for a three-day, two-night hike and would take her loyal companion, a scruffy four-legged mutt. 

Her first day was successful. She arrived at her campsite and pitched her tent. Her dog warmed by the fire as she made them both dinner. When it was time for bed, the dog hopped in the tent and coiled itself under the blankets, and the young woman zipped the tent closed. It was a restless first night. She needed reassurance, and as always, her pup knew a little lick on the hand was all she needed to go back to sleep.

Day two had an early start when a couple passed her tent talking. She peeked out her tent and got a glimpse of the two. She felt they must be through-hiking—they looked really prepared. And with that thought, she began to pack up and hit the trail. Despite her restless night of sleep, she felt wide awake. The young woman and her dog had an excellent day, winding the trails, crossing bridges, and seeing the colors of fall. It was unfair that the sun would be setting soon, but if they hiked a bit farther, they would have a lean-to to sleep in. At that moment, it was decided that would be their place to rest.

They arrived at the lean-to and got to work. The dog sat beside the woman as she made them dinner. They ate and settled in for the night. This night, they both fell asleep quickly, with the crisp breeze filling the lean-to.

From a hard sleep she awoke, covered in sweat. Sitting up, she was startled by the view of an open forest until she remembered she was in the lean-to. She shuffled her hand under the blankets towards her dog, felt a sniff and a little lick, and instantly was relieved. She giggled—her dog, almost completely out of view, must have wrapped itself in the covers. 

Her ease was short-lived, as she soon heard something running in the woods. It sounded like it was running towards her, right towards the opening of the shelter. In an instant, she was up with her headlight on and pocketknife in hand. With a swift step out of the lean-to, she faced the running shadow as it approached. There was a realization of horror as out of the trees her dog came into view. He had blood on his muzzle and ran past his owner growling with his teeth bared. 

The woman did her best to recall the final moments of that night when questioned by police and paramedics. The forensics of the scene said it was rabbit blood on her dog and inside of the shelter, but she could not help but ask the question: what had licked her hand?

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Horror in Local History

By Paul Vicino, Wildlands volunteer

Paul will share some of the violent history of Halifax and the region, including King Philip’s War, when a settler was killed just down the street from Striar Conservancy. A triple murder later occurred on the same road, by descents of the settlers…

He will also discuss the Bridgewater Triangle and invite others to share their uncanny experiences in this storied hotbed of paranormal activity.

Hunting Season Safety

Updated: October 2024

Hunting season is back upon us this fall in Massachusetts! Wildlands Trust has four properties that permit hunting during this time:

• Great River Preserve, Bridgewater

• South Triangle Pond Conservation Area, Plymouth

• Striar Conservancy, Halifax

• Barnes Rymut Preserve, Halifax

Hunting is prohibited on all other Wildlands Trust properties.

Still, boundaries can be confusing and hunters sometimes cross into prohibited areas unknowingly. Please be mindful when you are out in the woods this year, wherever it is that you like to hike, run, or ride. The best way to protect yourself is to wear blaze orange like our staff does!

While hunters are required to wear blaze orange during certain seasons, Mass Wildlife recommends that all outdoor users who are in the woods during hunting season wear blaze orange clothing as a precaution, and that pets wear an orange vest or bandana for visibility.

You can learn more at mass.gov/topics/hunting.

Have a great fall, and stay safe!