Policy in Focus

Last summer, the USDA declared nine Massachusetts counties “natural disaster areas” due to prolonged drought. With these events increasing in frequency and severity, and causing water supply emergencies, crop loss, and threats to endangered species, we and our partners are pushing for legislation to address drought management.

Saying No to Rat Poisons

Our letter to the editor, featured in The Boston Globe in the wake of the death of MK, an Arlington bald eagle, explains why rat poisons used widely by commercial exterminators are not only dangerous for wildlife, but can actually make rodent problems worse. You can still help reduce the use of these poisons.

New Tools for Local Climate Planning

For communities to address challenges posed by climate change, like flooding, droughts, and heat waves, it’s imperative that our local land use regulations tap into the benefits provided by trees, wetlands, and green spaces — but they often don’t. Our new comprehensive curriculum, developed in partnership with Mass Rivers Alliance and the SNEP Network, guides users in improving local regulations to support nature-based climate solutions.

Reminder: You Can Opt Out of Mosquito Spraying

Summer is coming and soon mosquito districts will be spraying pesticides from trucks in many neighborhoods. To exclude your property, fill out a simple form online. These requests must be renewed annually, and opting out can help protect species like bees and fish, to whom the pesticides typically used are highly toxic. You can also support statewide reform.

MVP Program Update

The state is seeking proposals for its Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program Action Grants, which provide eligible communities funding for climate adaptation projects. Proposals are due by 2:00 p.m. on May 4. The Program team will also be hosting an information session on April 12 about the launch of its MVP 2.0 Pilot.

What We're Reading

• Following a dismal climate report, could Massachusetts push up its net-zero goal? (via Boston Globe)
• Healey Administration gets serious about interstate approach to tackling energy issues (via Boston Globe)

Calendar

Celebrate Earth Month with Mass Audubon
Dates throughout April

Nature is for everyone, and nature needs each of us to take action. With programs and activities at our sanctuaries in every part of the state, celebrate Earth Month with Mass Audubon and make a difference in your community.

Creating Pathways into Climate Adaptation and Resilience: Training Future Leaders
April 14, Hybrid format: in-person (Boston) or virtual

With the climate resilience field rapidly growing, who is training the next generation of its leaders? How can we ensure that these jobs go to a diverse group of people? Join this Climate Adaptation Forum event to learn more. Mass Audubon is a Forum series supporter.

Stone Living Lab Conference
April 26-28, Boston

Mass Audubon and partners will be presenting on efforts to accelerate and streamline restoration of salt marshes and other wetlands.