Massachusetts Woodlands Connect

A Steering Committee to Build Forest Stewardship for a Just and Resilient Future. 

Interested in Joining the Woodlands Connect Steering Committee?
Please fill out the Stakeholder Survey.

The Woodlands Connect program is dedicated to supporting underserved forest landowners and stewards in Massachusetts to enhance the ecological and economic potential of their woodlands. The program focuses on supporting the following Forest Landowner and Stewardship groups:

  • BIPOC
  • Tribal nations and affiliations
  • Beginners
  • Those with limited resources
  • Veterans

Through outreach, technical assistance, and capacity-building, we aim to foster a network of informed and engaged land stewards who are equipped to practice sustainable forestry and agroforestry, contributing to ecological resilience and climate mitigation.

Our Approach

Our approach is centered on collaboration and empowerment. The program will establish a Woodlands Connect Steering Committee, consisting of diverse stakeholders—including forest stewards, local organizations, and government agencies. This committee will drive the development of strategies to remove barriers to participation and improve program delivery.

 Key activities will include: 

  • Stakeholder Steering Committee: Oversee the creation of strategies to ensure that underserved land stewards have access to the resources they need. Influence the following Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) programs and acts:
  • ForestsWork Incentive Programs 
  • DCR Cost-Share Programs 
  • Forest Tax Program 
  • Forest Cutting Practices Act 
  • Forest Stewardship Program 
  • Technical Assistance: Provide tailored guidance on forest management, agroforestry, and sustainable land practices. 
  • Building Community Networks: Host workshops, listening sessions, and networking events to create a collaborative environment among land stewards. 
  • Identifying Barriers: Assess and address the unique challenges that hinder access to resources and support for underserved land stewards. 

Benefits to Communities

By empowering forest stewards with the tools and knowledge needed for sustainable land management, the Woodlands Connect program will deliver multiple benefits to communities, including: 

  • Improved Forest Health & Resilience: Through sustainable land management practices, land stewards will contribute to healthier ecosystems, increased biodiversity, and enhanced climate resilience. 
  • Economic Opportunities: Members will be equipped to explore alternative income sources such as agroforestry, non-timber forest products, and ecotourism, supporting local economies.
  • Strengthened Communities: The program will create a strong sense of community among forest stewards, fostering collaboration and peer support that encourages continued stewardship and responsibility for the land. 
  • Increased Awareness & Access: By addressing barriers to participation, the program will improve access to critical resources, ensuring that underserved forest stewards can make informed decisions about their land. 
  • Agroforestry Pilot Projects: Steering committee members will explore opportunities for agroforestry pilot projects in and for the communities they represent. 

The success of Massachusetts Woodlands Connect relies on the involvement of partners, organizations, and land stewards across the state. We invite you to join the Woodlands Stakeholder Committee to create a sustainable and inclusive future for forest stewardship in the Massachusetts. Together, we can ensure that all forest-based communities—regardless of background or resources—have the tools they need to protect and enhance their woodlands for future generations.

how to get involved

  • Join the Steering Commitee: Collaborate with the program to
    expand outreach, provide technical assistance, and support land stewards.
  • Become a Mentor: Experienced land stewards can serve as mentors to newer stewards, sharing knowledge and best practices.
  • Support our Work: Contribute to the program through funding, resources, or volunteering to help build a stronger community of forest stewards.

Contact

Questions? Ideas? Reach out to us at woodlandsconnect@rdg.coop.