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Date: 3/21/2023
EASTHAMPTON – On March 9, the Pascommuck Conservation Trust (PCT) hosted its annual meeting at CitySpace in Easthampton. During the meeting, members of the trust reflected on 2022 and what they were looking forward to in the next year.
Board President Dianne McLane reflected on the trust’s 40th anniversary celebrations in 2022 as part of her president’s report.
“One of the celebrations was at John Bator Park in June where Mt. Tom Ice Cream created PCT signature porcupine ice cream and John entertained us with his original songs,” she said.
Speakers at the June event included state Sen. John Velis, Easthampton Planner Jeffrey Bagg, Bob McConnell of Passionate Friends and former Mayor Michael Tautznik, who was also one of the funding members of the PCT.
The celebrations also included a 40th anniversary celebration at Park Hill Orchard, which McLane said was “well-attended.”
“There was music, it turned out to be a really nice day, so it worked out nicely. Park Hill had their famous homemade frozen cider,” she said.
McLane also noted in 2022 that the board started its newsletter, dubbed the Manhan Meander.
“It’s a way to share your experience on PCT properties. It’s online, we’ve been putting it out to our members quarterly, maybe more often, whenever there is anything. We ask that members send in any pictures so we can share what’s out there in our properties,” she said.
McLane also highlighted some of the trust’s annual fundraising efforts during her president’s report.
“We hold two plant sales, one in the spring – April 29 – and one in the fall Sept. 16. Again, we will be at City Hall at 50 Payson Ave., and these are some of our best outreach and fundraising events,” she said.
Another fundraising event currently happening is the trust’s memorial bench fundraiser.
“We have the minimum of seven benches in place so far – there is room for more – it’s a great way to honor someone or a group,” McLane said.
In terms of plans for the upcoming year, Treasurer Rachel Telushkin noted that the trust’s goals include increasing donations through outreach, revenue streams and new member goals, starting a finance committee to recommend a budget every year, bring all of its fiscal and organizational records up to date and to implement the Markham Nathan grant.
Board member Molly Goodwin explained that the grant would be used to fund students of color and Indigenous students and Board President Dianne McLane said a committee was being set up to move forward with distributing the scholarships.
One area of concern the group will continue to monitor is the proposal of the Tasty Top Development, proposed for 93-97 Northampton St.
“That’s been taking up a lot of our time, but it is definitely worth it. It is next to our Dwyer property, so we are heavily involved,” she said.
McLane said the PCT will continue to work with the Easthampton Land Protection Collaborative, which also includes members from the Kestrel Land Trust, the Massachusetts Audobon Society, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife and the city of Easthampton.
“We meet quarterly to discuss properties and what we can do about furthering our land conservation,” McLane added.
While not naming the sites, McLane said the PCT has four properties that are currently being vetted for land protection.
During the meeting, the PCT unanimously agreed to re-elect six of its board members, including McLane for another term. McLane also announced that the board is looking for members with experience in community outreach, social media, fundraising and other related areas.
For more information, those interested can check out www.pctland.org.