Growing Wildlife-Friendly Gardens

Join Mass Audubon for a gardening workshop! At this workshop, discover native and pollinator-friendly flowers, shrubs and trees that grow well in the Berkshires and provide essential food and shelter for native insects and birds. Learn why sustainable landscaping can he......More

Join Mass Audubon for a gardening workshop! At this workshop, discover native and pollinator-friendly flowers, shrubs and trees that grow well in the Berkshires and provide essential food and shelter for native insects and birds. Learn why sustainable landscaping can help wildlife in the Berkshires, then hear ideas, design tips, and lists of garden-worthy natives that can help you choose plants well-suited to your site. This program is primarily indoors, but may have a short outdoor component at the end to explore plants on-site. See “Instructions and Directions” below for more information on the site where this program will take place. Learn more and register at this link: https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/pleasant-valley/101681-growing-wildlife-friendly-gardens?utm_source=pv_apr26_programblast&utm_medium=email+&utm_id=programs This event costs $15-$20. DATE: Wednesday, May 13TIME: 6:00pm – 7:30pmLOCATION: The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home, 2 Plunkett St, Lenox, MA 01240

The Mount, 2 Plunkett St, Lenox, MA, 01240, United States

Building Better Soil: A Three-Part Soil Health Intensive

Join the Northeast Organic Farming Situation, Massachusetts Chapter, for a 3 part series exploring the living world beneath our feet! Healthy soil is the foundation of productive farms and gardens. In this three-part Soil Health Intensive, participants will explore the ......More

Join the Northeast Organic Farming Situation, Massachusetts Chapter, for a 3 part series exploring the living world beneath our feet! Healthy soil is the foundation of productive farms and gardens. In this three-part Soil Health Intensive, participants will explore the living world beneath our feet and learn practical strategies for building resilient, fertile soil. Together we’ll uncover the foundational principles that support thriving growing spaces while examining the physical, chemical, and biological pillars of soil health. Each workshop will focus on one of these core soil properties and introduce practical tools, observations, and management strategies that growers can apply in their own farms, gardens, and landscapes. The series will take place at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner, MA. While attending all three sessions provides the most complete learning experience, participants are welcome to attend one, two, or all three workshops throughout the season. Please see individual event pages for details. This educational series is supported by the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), which helps farmers explore soil-building practices and provides resources for those interested in transitioning to organic production. Learn more and register at this link: https://www.nofamass.org/series/building-better-soil-a-three-part-soil-health-intensive/ DATE: Friday, April 17 | Friday, May 29 | Friday, June 26TIME: 10:00am – 4:00pmLOCATION: Mount Wachusett Community College, 444 Green Street, Gardner, MA 01440

Mount Wachusett Community College, 444 Green St., Gardner, MA

Discover Greylock Hike

Join Mount Greylock State Reservation for a lively hike! Suitable for ages 8 and older. Explore seasonal changes in the forest, look for signs of wildlife, and discover unique natural and cultural features along easy-moderate trails. Dress appropriately for the weather ......More

Join Mount Greylock State Reservation for a lively hike! Suitable for ages 8 and older. Explore seasonal changes in the forest, look for signs of wildlife, and discover unique natural and cultural features along easy-moderate trails. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, a snack, bug spray and sunscreen. Trekking poles are recommended. Inclement weather cancels. Meeting locations vary. For more information and to register, call the Visitor Center at (413) 499-4262. This event is free. DATE: Friday, May 8 | Friday, May 22 | Friday, May 29TIME: 11:00am – 2:00pmLOCATION: Meeting locations vary

Mount Greylock State Reservation

Forms and Transformations in the Butterfly World

The West Stockbridge Historical Society Presents: Forms and Transformations in the Butterfly World. Next up in the Berkshire Nature Talk Series: Ryan Shea, The Nature Institute Butterflies are among nature’s most captivating organisms, dazzling us with their colors, pat......More

The West Stockbridge Historical Society Presents: Forms and Transformations in the Butterfly World. Next up in the Berkshire Nature Talk Series: Ryan Shea, The Nature Institute Butterflies are among nature’s most captivating organisms, dazzling us with their colors, patterns, and the remarkable transformation from caterpillar to winged adult. But what can they teach us about the deeper rhythms of the natural world? In this talk, Ryan Shea invites us to slow down and truly observe butterflies: to notice how their shapes and colors shift and transform, and to help us discover a “living understanding of nature.” He draws on an approach to nature observation developed by the German writer and scientist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, which asks us to follow what we actually see rather than jump to explanation. About the Speaker: Ryan Shea is a researcher and educator at The Nature Institute in Ghent, New York, where he explores how people can develop a deeper, more meaningful connection with the natural world — with a special focus on plants and insects. $10 suggested donation for nonmembers. DATE: Friday, May 15TIME: 7:00pm – 8:30pmLOCATION: Old Town Hall, 9 Main St, West Stockbridge, MA 01266

Old Town Hall, 9 Main St, West Stockbridge, MA, 01266, United States

Pittsfield Farmers Market

Every Saturday through October, rain or shine! Find more details here: farmersmarketpittsfield.org DATE: Saturday, May 9 – Saturday, October 31TIME: 9:00am – 1:00pmLOCATION: The Common, 100 First St, Pittsfield, MA 01201

Pittsfield Common, 100 1st St., Pittsfield, MA

Open House at Old Maid's Park

When: Saturday, May 16 @ 1-3PM – (Rain Date: Sunday, May 17 @ 1-3PM)Where: Old Maid’s Park is located at 30 Wyantenuck St, Housatonic, MA 01236 What to Expect: Delicious food from Cocinera LatinasFace painting!Live music to relax and enjoy the settingNative Plant Identi......More

When: Saturday, May 16 @ 1-3PM – (Rain Date: Sunday, May 17 @ 1-3PM)Where: Old Maid’s Park is located at 30 Wyantenuck St, Housatonic, MA 01236 What to Expect: Delicious food from Cocinera LatinasFace painting!Live music to relax and enjoy the settingNative Plant Identification Walk — learn how to recognize common native species and understand their role in supporting local ecosystemsMacroinvertebrate Identification — discover the small aquatic creatures living in the pond and what they reveal about water quality and ecosystem healthActivities for all ages, with plenty for families to enjoy togetherWhat You Can Bring: Blankets or lawn chairs, toys and games for kidsA spirit of connection and communityThis project is centered on listening to the community—how the park is cared for, how people access and use it, and what its future could look like. Through events like this open house, BEAT is creating space for people to come together, share ideas, and help shape the park’s future.

MA

A Nature Year at Pleasant Valley: Spring

Immerse yourself in a season of local natural history. With a skilled Mass Audubon naturalist as your guide, experience the cycle of the seasons at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lenox. Gain extensive natural history knowledge, form a community with like-minded, ......More

Immerse yourself in a season of local natural history. With a skilled Mass Audubon naturalist as your guide, experience the cycle of the seasons at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lenox. Gain extensive natural history knowledge, form a community with like-minded, curious adults, and receive the many benefits of spending time outdoors. Throughout the spring, explore spectacular seasonal phenomena including the migration of salamanders and songbirds. We will usually start inside with an introduction and then head out for our adventure in the field which will be at least 90 minutes outside. We’ll travel mainly on trails and boardwalks, actively exploring and experiencing various habitats and sanctuary spots. Adult Program Registration covers 3 classes starting April 18. Learn more and register at this link: https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/pleasant-valley/98862-a-nature-year-at-pleasant-valley-spring-3-months DATES/TIMES: Sat. April 18, 6:00pm – 8:00pm Sat. May 16, 7:00am – 9:00am Sat. June 20, 8:00pm – 10:00pm LOCATION: Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 W Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA 01240

Mass Audubon Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA, 01240, United States

Act on Climate with 350Mass Berkshires

Join members of 350Mass, the local climate group, at their monthly zoom meetings (and sometimes in-person) for good conversation and effective action. Learn about their efforts to promote affordable renewable energy and sustainable building practices in our schools, hom......More

Join members of 350Mass, the local climate group, at their monthly zoom meetings (and sometimes in-person) for good conversation and effective action. Learn about their efforts to promote affordable renewable energy and sustainable building practices in our schools, homes, and municipalities. The group meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday at 6:00 pm and is always looking for new people to bring ideas, brainstorm clever actions, and help implement current initiatives. Please join and you will be made welcome! To contact us and get the Zoom link, email at: [email protected] DATES: 3rd Wednesdays TIME: 6:00 PM LOCATION: Online via Zoom

Online

Explore the Nighttime World of Caterpillars & Moths

The Caterpillar Lab will present a photograph and video packed talk that explores the nighttime world of caterpillars, moths, and how to find them. Join us to learn how we can explore our own backyard habitats through the eyes of a moth, using UV and special light traps......More

The Caterpillar Lab will present a photograph and video packed talk that explores the nighttime world of caterpillars, moths, and how to find them. Join us to learn how we can explore our own backyard habitats through the eyes of a moth, using UV and special light traps to uncover a whole new perspective. This special lecture will include time to meet a few special caterpillar specimens up close and, and chat with Caterpillar Lab educators about all things local caterpillar. The Caterpillar Lab is a non-profit based in New Hampshire that fosters greater appreciation and care for the complexity and beauty of natural history through live caterpillar educational programs, research initiatives, and photography and film projects. They believe that an increased awareness of one’s local environment is the foundation on which healthy and responsible attitudes towards the broader natural systems of this world are built. Sign Up for ZoomDATE: Wednesday, May 20 TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM LOCATION: Online via Zoom

Online

Nature’s Palette: A Riverwalk Experience

Participate in a creativity-inspiring riverside walk in honor of Art Week. Create a palette of colors you find and make up amusing names to accompany them. Draw a riverine critter you find while turning stones. Sing a song we make up as we travel along. Fun for all. Fam......More

Participate in a creativity-inspiring riverside walk in honor of Art Week. Create a palette of colors you find and make up amusing names to accompany them. Draw a riverine critter you find while turning stones. Sing a song we make up as we travel along. Fun for all. Families with children of all ages welcome. Join HooRWA and naturalist Arianna Alexsandra Collins on Thursday, May 21 from 5-6pm for this whimsical excursion. Meet at Linear Park, 24 Water Street, Route 43 in Williamstown, MA. This Art Week program is free and open to all. No registration necessary.

Linear Park, Williamstown, MA

Building Better Soil: A Three-Part Soil Health Intensive

Join the Northeast Organic Farming Situation, Massachusetts Chapter, for a 3 part series exploring the living world beneath our feet! Healthy soil is the foundation of productive farms and gardens. In this three-part Soil Health Intensive, participants will explore the ......More

Join the Northeast Organic Farming Situation, Massachusetts Chapter, for a 3 part series exploring the living world beneath our feet! Healthy soil is the foundation of productive farms and gardens. In this three-part Soil Health Intensive, participants will explore the living world beneath our feet and learn practical strategies for building resilient, fertile soil. Together we’ll uncover the foundational principles that support thriving growing spaces while examining the physical, chemical, and biological pillars of soil health. Each workshop will focus on one of these core soil properties and introduce practical tools, observations, and management strategies that growers can apply in their own farms, gardens, and landscapes. The series will take place at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner, MA. While attending all three sessions provides the most complete learning experience, participants are welcome to attend one, two, or all three workshops throughout the season. Please see individual event pages for details. This educational series is supported by the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), which helps farmers explore soil-building practices and provides resources for those interested in transitioning to organic production. Learn more and register at this link: https://www.nofamass.org/series/building-better-soil-a-three-part-soil-health-intensive/ DATE: Friday, April 17 | Friday, May 29 | Friday, June 26TIME: 10:00am – 4:00pmLOCATION: Mount Wachusett Community College, 444 Green Street, Gardner, MA 01440

Mount Wachusett Community College, 444 Green St., Gardner, MA

Discover Greylock Hike

Join Mount Greylock State Reservation for a lively hike! Suitable for ages 8 and older. Explore seasonal changes in the forest, look for signs of wildlife, and discover unique natural and cultural features along easy-moderate trails. Dress appropriately for the weather ......More

Join Mount Greylock State Reservation for a lively hike! Suitable for ages 8 and older. Explore seasonal changes in the forest, look for signs of wildlife, and discover unique natural and cultural features along easy-moderate trails. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water, a snack, bug spray and sunscreen. Trekking poles are recommended. Inclement weather cancels. Meeting locations vary. For more information and to register, call the Visitor Center at (413) 499-4262. This event is free. DATE: Friday, May 8 | Friday, May 22 | Friday, May 29TIME: 11:00am – 2:00pmLOCATION: Meeting locations vary

Mount Greylock State Reservation

Pittsfield Farmers Market

Every Saturday through October, rain or shine! Find more details here: farmersmarketpittsfield.org DATE: Saturday, May 9 – Saturday, October 31TIME: 9:00am – 1:00pmLOCATION: The Common, 100 First St, Pittsfield, MA 01201

Pittsfield Common, 100 1st St., Pittsfield, MA

Owls Up Close

Eyes on Owls presents this fun event! Everyone loves owls! Come see them up close and enjoy a slide presentation and introduction to six live owls including hooting lessons. Learn about field marks, owl pellets, tips on how to protect owls, and the importance of owls an......More

Eyes on Owls presents this fun event! Everyone loves owls! Come see them up close and enjoy a slide presentation and introduction to six live owls including hooting lessons. Learn about field marks, owl pellets, tips on how to protect owls, and the importance of owls and other birds of prey in the ecosystem. For adults, youth, and children ages 5 and up (accompanied by an adult). Free. Sponsored by the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center and Rescue Franklin County Wildlife, a group of community volunteers committed to raising awareness about the harms of pesticides to birds of prey and encouraging the use of wildlife safe alternatives. This event is free. DATE: Saturday, May 23TIME: 1:00pm – 2:15pmLOCATION: Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 01376

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA

A Nature Year at Pleasant Valley: Spring

Immerse yourself in a season of local natural history. With a skilled Mass Audubon naturalist as your guide, experience the cycle of the seasons at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lenox. Gain extensive natural history knowledge, form a community with like-minded, ......More

Immerse yourself in a season of local natural history. With a skilled Mass Audubon naturalist as your guide, experience the cycle of the seasons at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lenox. Gain extensive natural history knowledge, form a community with like-minded, curious adults, and receive the many benefits of spending time outdoors. Throughout the spring, explore spectacular seasonal phenomena including the migration of salamanders and songbirds. We will usually start inside with an introduction and then head out for our adventure in the field which will be at least 90 minutes outside. We’ll travel mainly on trails and boardwalks, actively exploring and experiencing various habitats and sanctuary spots. Adult Program Registration covers 3 classes starting April 18. Learn more and register at this link: https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/pleasant-valley/98862-a-nature-year-at-pleasant-valley-spring-3-months DATES/TIMES: Sat. April 18, 6:00pm – 8:00pm Sat. May 16, 7:00am – 9:00am Sat. June 20, 8:00pm – 10:00pm LOCATION: Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 W Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA 01240

Mass Audubon Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA, 01240, United States