Action Alert: Support Climate Change Adaptation

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Mass Audubon

Time is running out! Mass Audubon urges you to contact your Massachusetts House member today and ask them to support climate change preparedness legislation (S.2121).

This bill, which would help make sure Massachusetts has a plan in place for adapting to climate change impacts, is a priority for Mass Audubon and we want to see it passed before the formal session ends! A few of the legislation’s goals for the state include:

  • Compiling data on existing and projected sea level rise using best available science
  • Producing a report documenting the preparedness and vulnerabilities in Massachusetts’ emergency response, energy, transportation, communications, health, and other systems
  • Establishing a grant program to provide financial assistance to regional planning agencies for the development and implementation of a climate adaptation plan, including vulnerability assessment and strategy development

By identifying where we are most vulnerable and taking these measures, the legislation will help protect public health, public safety, and the economy.

5 Fun Facts About Moose Hill

Posted on March 29, 2016 by Hillary T.

By Karen Stein, Moose Hill Sanctuary Director

I am often reminded as I meet people on the trails at Moose Hill in Sharon or as I go about work in town, that the land “up on the hill” has really been a part of the lives of so many people for such a long time.

When it was established 100 years ago as the first Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuary, it encompassed 225 acres. Today, we welcome visitors to 1,971 acres of protected land that came to us via 80 separate parcel donations or purchases. Check out these five facts about the sanctuary that might just inspire you to visit.

The Pools Are Alive

A vernal pool

A vernal pool off the Summit Trail

Moose Hill is home to at least eight vernal pools, temporary bodies of water that provide critical habitat for amphibian and invertebrate species like salamanders and wood frogs. Four of these vernal pools are found along the aptly named Vernal Pool Loop. The others are mostly found off trails located on the western side of the sanctuary. Spring is the time to find the vernal pools, often alive with the chorus of wood frogs and spring peepers! Learn more about vernal pools

A True Community Farm

Volunteers from Boston University help out with the CSA

Volunteers from Boston University help out with the CSA

We believe that healthy farming leads to healthy people and a healthy community. While Wards Berry Farm has been farming Moose Hill land for over 25 years, we decided to partner with them 11 years ago to offer nearby residents the opportunity to take part in an organic summer CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program.

The Wards brothers are responsible for the cultivation of the land and planting of the crops on our 17 acres, and Moose Hill oversees the management, harvesting, and distribution of the organic crops.

Deep Roots

George and Martha Maple Trees

George and Martha Maple Trees

The Billings Loop takes you through mixed forest, past old farm fields, and over a boardwalk through a red maple swamp. The trail is only one mile and easy to hike. After it curves past the Billings Barn and Bat Barn, you will notice two rather large, spectacular sugar maple trees.

Affectionately named George and Martha, these trees are more than 250 years old. They have been the subject of many an artist’s eye, including water colors, charcoal drawings, and photographs.

Nature’s Playground

pine forest play

The beginning of the Forest Trail has a wonderful natural play space. The ground is a bit cushioned from the pine needles, and a fallen tree, worn smooth from play, has been the focus of many adventures for our youngest visitors. This tree has been a rocket ship, a train, a school bus, and a door. You can also “squeeze through a tree”, jump off stumps, and create mouse houses or fairy homes.

Coming soon will be an official Nature Play Area called Cookie’s Garden complete with rainbow sticks, a play hill with a tunnel, a mud kitchen, stump jumps, weaving areas, and more.

A Surprising View

Most people who hike to the Bluffs stop at the first overlook, walk a short distance to the next overlook, and then turn back. But, if you continue on, down the hill, over a stream, and back up the other side (a 15-minute hike), you arrive at Allen’s Ledge. Not only does this ledge offer another great view, but you will also notice the chimney that is on the ledge.

In the 1930s, a cabin was built on this ledge. It burnt down in 1942, leaving behind only the chimney. Makes you wonder what it would have been like to stay in this cabin. How did people get here? Did they carry in all their supplies? Why even build a cabin right here? It really is true that a hike in our woods can reveal many surprises.

Visit Us!

Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 293 Moose Hill Parkway in Sharon, Massachusetts. Learn more about Moose Hill and get directions.

Celebrating 100 Years

This post is part of our 100 Years of Wildlife Sanctuaries Celebration. Learn more and join the fun!