This program is the next in our year-long “Climate Change & Your Community” series, which highlights climate challenges and solutions right here at home.

The rallying cry “Think Global, Act Local” is just as relevant as ever, as the challenges of climate change are impacting the Valley. Does the way we use the land in our own communities impact the global climate? How can land conservation make a difference? Find out at this special presentation.

On Monday, February 10, from 6:30-7:45 pm at the Sunderland Library, join us for a discussion with Scott Jackson, a University of Massachusetts Amherst professor of Environmental Conservation who studies the impact of climate change on wildlife and the land. He has developed landscape-based tools to assess the health of ecosystems and how they are connected to each other to help us make science-based land-use decisions. He is also chair of Kestrel’s Board of Trustees.

You’ll learn about the fundamentals of global warming and climate change, examples of climate change that are already occurring, as well as projections for the future in New England. Scott will discuss how climate change is likely to impact wildlife and ecosystems, and give examples of what can be done to protect and conserve vulnerable ecosystems through climate adaptation.

You’ll also hear about past and present land conservation efforts in Sunderland to protect our forests, farms, and riverlands, including a current project in which Kestrel is helping the Town conserve 40 acres on Mount Toby for drinking water, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience.

This program is free, however space is limited and registration is strongly recommended.