The annual Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commisions (MACC) spring conference kicked off this week in a virtual, ‘zoom’ mode. That’s a first for MACC in its 60 year history. I was lucky enough to score free admission to any or all of the workshops when my name was drawn at the MACC’s 2021 business meeting. Yaaassss! The conference has so many great opportunities to learn from experts in all kinds of things helpful to folks like me who are learning the ropes of being a conservation commissioner. So far, I’ve learned about MassWildlife’s new Heritage Hub Reporting System that allow anyone to report sightings of rare or endangered plant and animal species; how to stretch dollars in the conservation fund; impacts and mitigation of nutrients in stormwater; the health of Massachusetts forests and the threats they face; strategy and tactics for open space planning and protection; and using fluvial geomorphology as a basis to plan and build for more resilient road infrastructure and healthier rivers. I also finished all the courses to earn my ConCom fundamentals certificate — something I’ve been working on since I joined the commission. Along the way I’ve been so cheered by the dedication and sheer expertise of the commissioners, MACC staffers, and presenters. And, honestly, I’ve been daunted by the enormity of the tasks we all face in this world of climate change. So mixed emotions for me and another week of great experiences ahead. Cheers to 60 years of MACC!
MACC at 60 Years.
