The Western MA Exchange Archive

As we enter the season of gratitude and Thanksgiving, we're delighted to share recent highlights from our community. This month, we celebrate volunteers whose dedication strengthens our chapter and inspires others to enjoy the outdoors. We honor Appie of the Year, Janine Papesh, and recognize our 2025 Most Valuable Committee Members — each deserving of our heartfelt thanks. We're also spotlighting the wonderful work of our Mountaineering Committee, which continues to offer year-round opportunities for climbers to learn, grow, and explore the classic cliffs of Western MA. If you are new to the AMC or to our Western MA Chapter, welcome! We're grateful you've joined us. There are many ways to get involved — join activities, volunteer, connect with a committee, or explore leadership opportunities. We also have two openings on our Executive Committee for 2026: Conservation Chair and Vice Chair. If you're interested in helping shape the future of the chapter, we'd love to hear from you. Thank you for being part of the AMC Western MA community during this season of appreciation! Kathy Martin, Western MA Chapter Chair

Appie of the Year Janine Papesh

Janine Papesh was awarded the Appie of the Year at the Chapter's Annual Meeting and Celebration last month. Janine has worked tirelessly for many years in both the Boston and Western MA Chapters. She was most recently the Bicycling Committee Chair, which she started after moving to the area in 2016, and has led over 50 cycling trips in western MA. In Boston, she led both cycling and skiing trips. For more than thirty years, Janine has exemplified the spirit of the Appalachian Mountain Club by being someone who inspires joyous, meaningful outdoor experiences. Her leadership has built community and encouraged countless people to get outside on bikes and skis. We'd also like to congratulate the 2025 Most Valuable Committee Members for the WM Chapter:

• 20s/30s: Kevin Morgan-Rothschild
  
• A.T. Management: Gary Adamson
• Bicycling: Robyn Maislin
• Communications: Lisa Taylor
• Family Programs: Dawne Piers-Gamble
• Hiking: Margot Lacey
• Mountaineering: Danielle Rich
• NET Management: Patrick Henry
• Paddling: Ann Gillard
• Training and Education: Hew Hart

Congratulations to all! We'd like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for their dedication and commitment to furthering the mission of the AMC!

Mountaineering Committee

The Western MA Mountaineering Committee offers year-round opportunities for climbers and aspiring climbers to develop skills, find partners, and enjoy the classic cliffs of our region. We organize instruction and trips in top-roping, sport/trad climbing, anchor building, ice climbing, and mountaineering fundamentals, always grounded in AMC's emphasis on safety, stewardship, and good judgment. Our leaders are trained volunteers who know the local crags — places like Chapel Ledge, Rose Ledge, and the Keene Rail Cut — and who are committed to helping people progress in a responsible way. We also support trip planning for bigger objectives, encourage Leave No Trace practices at the cliff, and work to build a welcoming climbing community in Western MA through trainings, social events, and collaboration with other AMC programs. For more information visit the Mountaineering Committee's webpage. You'll find helpful information about climbing, upcoming events, a resources page with informative articles like Beginner Resources and Favorite Climbs. Feel free to reach out to the mountaineering committee if you have any questions: mountaineering@amc-wma.org.

Share your talents with the Western MA Chapter

Are you passionate about the outdoors and looking to make a tangible impact in the community? The AMC Western MA Chapter has two opportunities on the Executive Committee for 2026: Conservation Chair and Vice Chair. The Conservation Chair is a member of the Western MA Executive Committee, responsible for organizing and directing the Conservation Committee, coordinating conservation events, managing related budgets and supplies, and serving as the liaison to the Chapter Executive Committee. The Vice Chair position is a 1-year term as Vice Chair, with the expectation of stepping into the Chapter Chair role afterward. It's a unique chance to learn about AMC leadership, support outdoor programs in western MA, and make a real impact in the outdoor community. You'll collaborate with committees, help with events and recruitment, and represent the Chapter in the broader AMC network. Full support and orientation are provided. Curious or interested? Email us at info@amc-wma.org.

Nature for MA Event

AMC is a proud leader in a nearly 100-member coalition working to create a dedicated, annual funding stream for water and land conservation, urban greenspace, climate resilience, and outdoor recreation — without raising taxes. The initiative would set aside revenue from the existing state sales tax on sporting goods to generate $100 million each year for conservation, recreation, trails, and protecting clean water, and will appear on the 2026 ballot. Thanks to incredible volunteer support, we've collected 75,000+ signatures from MA voters. To celebrate, join us on December 1 for an urban hike from AMC's Charlestown office to the State House, where we'll deliver signatures and hold a 10:30 AM rally on the Statehouse steps demonstrating strong public backing for the initiative. Gear is available to borrow. EVENT DETAILS Help AMC lead the way — register today! Can't attend? Sign up for AMC's Conservation Action Network for updates on the Nature for MA campaign. Questions? Email AMCConservation@outdoors.org or visit Nature For MA on the web and Facebook to learn more.

The AMC Western MA Mountaineering Committee offers year-round opportunities for climbers and aspiring climbers to develop skills, find partners, and enjoy the classic cliffs of our region. We organize instruction and trips in top-roping, sport/trad climbing, anchor building, ice climbing, and mountaineering fundamentals, always grounded in AMC's emphasis on safety, stewardship, and good judgment. Our leaders are trained volunteers who know the local crags — places like Chapel Ledge, Rose Ledge, and the Keene Rail Cut — and who are committed to helping people progress in a responsible way. We also support trip planning for bigger objectives, encourage Leave No Trace practices at the cliff, and work to build a welcoming climbing community in Western MA through trainings, social events, and collaboration with other AMC programs. For more information visit the Mountaineering Committee webpage. You'll find helpful information about climbing, upcoming events, a resources page with informative articles like Beginner Resources and Favorite Climbs.

The Conservation Chair is a member of the Western MA Executive Committee, responsible for organizing and directing the Conservation Committee, coordinating conservation events, managing related budgets and supplies, and serving as the liaison to the Chapter Executive Committee. The Conservation Chair works closely with AMC's Conservation Policy and Research Staff to educate and engage members and non-members in conservation action and stewardship activities. In addition, they report on opportunities for AMC to engage in local conservation actions such as providing comments for proposed legislation, writing letters relating to local issues, and responding to inquiries and requests from members and partners. To find out more or to express your interest, please write to chair@amc-wma.org. We'd love to hear from, and about, you!

GCC »

The first hike started at the William Cullen Bryant homestead in Cummington for an easy walk through an old growth forest dusted with a touch of snow. The trail brought the group to Rivulet Brook, where they could read Bryant's poem "The Rivulet" - a story about his childhood on the property. The group then drove to the Conwell Property Trail in South Worthington for the second hike featuring two ponds and a huge beaver dam. It was great to have three first-timers with us! MORE PHOTOS »

FACEBOOK »

SUBMIT YOUR STORY »

Both the property and access were given back at no cost and with no restrictions, empowering the Penobscot Nation to care for it independently. This land return and the acquisition of the Barnard Forest mark important steps in AMC's ongoing work to safeguard critical landscapes and foster collaborative conservation across our region. Together, AMC and the Penobscot Nation are honoring a collective responsibility to protect the outdoors for generations to come. BARNARD FOREST »

Our Member Favorites page has 9 interactive maps with hikes in western MA submitted by our members. When you click on an icon, an interactive map will appear with hiker icons. When you click on the icon, you will find the name and description of the trail, a website when available, and directions to the location. MEMBER FAVORITES »

NATURE FOR MA »

In honor of AMC's 150th anniversary, we're adding something special: A one-time AMC 150^th Anniversary Award to recognize volunteers whose imagination, dedication, and leadership have helped shape AMC's first 150 years and will guide us into the next. This year's award celebrations will take place along the AMC 150 Route, with recipients honored at a location closest to where they live or volunteer. We're bringing the celebration to local communities so that family, friends, and fellow volunteers can join in. Award categories include:

• Distinguished Service Award (AMC's highest honor)
• Volunteer Leadership Award
• Joe Dodge Award
• AMC 150th Anniversary Award (one-time for 2025!)

Click here to submit a nomination.

ATC is the organization that oversees the protection and maintenance of the Appalachian Trail, in partnership with local trail groups, like AMC. Open the 2025 Volunteer Impact Report and scroll to page 4 for mention of the Chapter's work. Many thanks to our AMC Western MA volunteers!

AMC CAREERS »

On November 1, a group of the Chapter's volunteers set out to do trail boundary markings on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). Our A.T. Committee follows a six-year rotation for MA - each year, thirteen of the state's 90 miles of trail owned by the National Park Service, are marked. This particular boundary survey was along the section from Jug End Road to the Mt Everett State Reservation boundary - an outing with steep and rocky terrain! The boundary marker is a metal post, usually set in cement and attached flush to a rock. It's located using three reference trees that form a triangle around the marker. The distances and directions from each tree make it possible to relocate the marker accurately. Our work involved finding and refreshing the paint on the trees, as well as clearing and scrubbing the metal marker so it's easy to see and identify. We thank the volunteers, Deb, Kathy, Mike, and Peter for their hard work to maintain the A.T. boundaries - a less glamorous but very important task! More Photos

We all know that spending time outdoors is good for us, which is why we do it. But maybe we're not totally aware of why we love it. Danielle Rich, Co-Chair of the Mountaineering Committee and a licensed Social Worker, spoke at the Annual Business Meeting and Celebration about the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors. This is an excerpt from her talk. In recent years, mental health disorders have become the third leading cause of disability, with a global prevalence of over 10%. The lifetime prevalence of major depressive disorder in the United States has risen over the past 25 years and an estimated 20% of the population is reported to experience a major depressive episode (National Institute of Health, 2021). Mental health disorders are associated with lower quality of life, increased hospital utilization, high economic and social cost, and increased mortality. Overcoming a mental health disorder involves more than just a medical intervention. It involves a shift in perspective, a sense of community and belonging and sustainable self-care strategies to help us cope with everyday stressors. There are many studies that prove how spending time in nature can improve mood, lower anxiety, and improve memory and cognition. In addition, prolonged immersion in nature has been shown to effectively manage symptoms of PTSD. Exposure to sunlight and green space helps release serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with boosting mood, focus and reducing stress. Lastly, one of the greatest benefits we find in nature is a sense of connection, including a better sense of connection to self, community and purpose. Time in nature benefits personal growth, self-esteem, emotional regulation and socialization. Being present in nature allows us to free up our mind, disconnect from the burdens of everyday life and think more deeply and clearly. We hope you find time to get outdoors, and if you're looking for some company, we encourage you check out the upcoming activities in the Western MA Chapter. Come join the fun!

ATC FACEBOOK »

Congratulations to Janine Papesh, the recipient of the Appie of the Year Award for the Western MA Chapter! This award is given each year at the Annual Celebration and Business Meeting to recognize a volunteer who has demonstrated a long-term commitment and dedication to the WM Chapter. Born and raised in Baltimore, Janine inherited from her parents a tireless work ethic, a love of the outdoors, and a deep devotion to Maryland crab in all its delicious forms. Even now, she maintains that crabmeat is a welcome addition to any meal, even breakfast. After college, Janine worked in the Baltimore area before relocating to Boston in the early 1990s with "Mr. Wrong," a man who, regrettably, shared neither her fondness for the outdoors nor for crab. That relationship soon ended, and Janine found herself looking for new friends and new adventures. In December 1993, she joined the Appalachian Mountain Club's Boston Chapter. By participating in AMC activities, Janine discovered the joys of cycling in the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter and found herself a community of like-minded people. Janine's warmth, enthusiasm, and organizational talent quickly made her indispensable. She was recruited to become a chapter trip leader, and also became co-chair of the chapter's membership committee, where she helped welcome countless newcomers. At a chapter orientation event, she met a fellow AMC member who would later prove to be "Mr. Right." But this wasn't obvious at first – he seemed a bit too nerdy for her. They reconnected a few months later under different circumstances, and she decided that nerdiness might be a trait she could work with – so she invited him on a bike ride. They've been riding in tandem ever since. After they married in 1997, Janine continued to pour her energy into AMC volunteer leadership, leading bike and ski trips for more than two decades and transforming her husband into a passable cyclist and skier along the way. When the couple moved to western Massachusetts in 2016, they joined what was then the AMC Berkshire Chapter. At their first chapter annual meeting, they learned there was no active bicycling committee – so Janine promptly joined the Executive Committee and founded one. Over the past nine years, Janine has led more than fifty trips for what is now the AMC Western MA Chapter and has chaired or co-chaired the bicycling committee since its creation. This year, she passes that torch to her close friend and frequent cycling companion, Robyn Maislin, knowing the program is thriving. For more than thirty years, Janine has exemplified the spirit of the Appalachian Mountain Club by being someone who inspires joyous, meaningful outdoor experiences. Her leadership has built community, encouraged countless people to get outside on bikes and skis, and proven that life, like steamed Maryland crab, is best shared with good company. The Western MA Chapter is proud to honor Janine Papesh as its 2025 Appie of the Year! We are so grateful for all that you have done for the AMC and the Western MA Chapter Janine!

On Saturday, October 25, over 65 attendees celebrated a fantastic year with AMC Western MA. Members enjoyed a light buffet, social time, and informative presentations at the Polish American Citizens Club in South Deerfield, MA. Kathy Martin, Chapter Chair, provided the Chapter Year in Review. She thanked our exceptional leaders for planning and executing memorable activities and programs to connect members with the outdoors. Kathy Kindness, Chapter Membership Chair, recognized three 50-year members and 23 25-year members for their long-term commitment to AMC. After receiving their 25-year pins, Lorraine Mangione and Jim Schumacher shared photos of family trips to the AMC huts over 30 years! This was truly a testament to how AMC facilitates lifelong bonds and creates memories. Jon Cocina, Director of Membership for AMC, lauded the chapter for planning 237 activities for 1,492 participants so far in 2025. He noted AMC staff were particularly impressed with the 20s/30s group, stating "this emerging group is known as being passionate, collaborative, community-centric, and has created impressive goals and action plans for 2026." Jon praised the NET committee for their year-round commitment to making trails safe and accessible, and applauded Western MA activities such as Women's Weekend. He noted that the Executive Committee created achievable goals for 2026, with good plans to reach them. His presentation continued with AMC's club-wide initiatives to grow membership and engage people with the outdoors, including the AMC 150 anniversary relay from Virginia to Maine. He noted that AMC Western MA took the lead in adopting relay sections and activities in honor of AMC's big bash. Our first local speaker was Jim Pelletier, Western MA's A.T. Committee Naturalist. In "Wildlife of Berkshire County", Jim noted that wildlife transect data show bears, rattlesnakes, beavers, moose, and even fishers spotted on or near western MA trails. He also reported evidence of invasive species, including the Emerald Ash Borer. His informative (and sometimes humorous) videos captured bears, deer, and other animals enjoying the trails — or the trees for a good back scratch. On a more serious note, Jim highlighted the ongoing study of A.T. foot traffic (over) and wildlife crossings (over and sometimes on) the Mass Pike near Becket, MA. Danielle Rich, Mountaineering Co-Chair and licensed clinical social worker, provided an exceptional overview of prevalent mental health concerns in western MA. She also discussed scientific research confirming the beneficial effects of outdoor activity on mental health and on making social connections. In addition, Danielle spearheaded the collection of coats and other winter gear to be donated to the unhoused in western MA. Hopefully, the coat drive initiative can become a regular part of the annual meeting. The meeting concluded with several items of business: recognition of the 2025 Executive Committee, welcoming new leaders, celebrating the Most Valuable Committee Members, thanking NET adopters, and honoring the Appie of the Year. The Appie of the Year award was presented to Janine Papesh, the outgoing Bicycling Chair. More on this well-deserved award in a separate post. Kayla Crowe, Training and Education Chair, and Hew Hart, 20s/30s Chair, handed out the Most Valuable Committee Member Awards to the following committee members:

• 20s/30s: Kevin Morgan-Rothschild
  
• A.T. Management: Gary Adamson
• Bicycling: Robyn Maislin
• Communications: Lisa Taylor
• Family Programs: Dawne Piers-Gamble
• Hiking: Margot Lacey
• Mountaineering: Danielle Rich
• NET Management: Patrick Henry
• Paddling: Ann Gillard
• Training and Education: Hew Hart

Those assembled approved the 2026 Executive Committee Members. Officers

• Chair: Kathy Martin
• Vice Chair: Vacant
• Treasurers: Deb Weisenstein/Warren Buhl
• Secretary: Mary Hogan

Standing Committees

• 20s/30s: Hew Hart
• A.T. Management: Russ Skelton
• Bicycling: Robyn Maislin
• Communications: Jeannette Pierce
• Community Engagement: Dawne Piers-Gamble
• Conservation: Vacant
• Family Programs: Laura Stinnette
• Hiking: Mike April
• Membership: Kathy Kindness
• Mountaineering: Chris Neil/Danielle Rich
• NET Management: Vacant
• Paddling: Deb Weisenstein/Bonna Wieler
• Training and Education: Kayla Crowe
• Member at Large: John Adams
• Member at Large: Kim Carlino
• Webmaster: Lisa Taylor
• Past Chair: Diane Jones

We are supremely grateful for all the volunteers - activity leaders, trail maintainers, and Executive Committee Members - who make the Chapter what it is! And much gratitude goes out to Kathy Kindness, Membership Chair, for the many of hours of time spent planning this wonderful event! View more photos on our Facebook page.

AMC RESOURCES »

This month's Committee Highlight focuses on the Membership Committee. Under the leadership of Membership Chair, Kathy Kindness, the Chapter has gained 68 new members this year. As of September 2025, our chapter has 2,869 members. The Membership Committee planned several events this year. Our AMC Day at Prospect Mountain, VT, was a "greet and ski" event. Our National Trails Day event, scheduled for June 6 in Cheshire, MA, was to include trail maintenance, a bike ride, a paddling trip, a hike, and a tabling event. Unfortunately, torrential rains put a damper on things for both events! We are planning the greet and ski as well as another National Trails Day events for 2026. Kathy also held multiple tabling events at various locations around western MA. This year, we celebrate twenty-three 25-year members and three 50-year members! We are so thankful for their long-term commitment to the Appalachian Mountain Club! Our 25-year members are: Byron Call, Elizabeth Dillman, Kim Gangwisch-Marsh, Larry Hunter, Kaye Lynn Johnson, Kenn Kaminski, Christine Keenan, Grant Kendrick, Naomi Klayman, Emma Kolchin-Miller, Linda Lopatka, Lorraine Mangione, Sheila Marks, Sheila Marks, Douglas Marshall, Sarah Marshall, Steven Miller, Cathy Schoen, James Schumacher, Patricia Stevenson, George Turkington, Roy Van Driesche, Alice Weis, and Jonathan Weis. Our 50-year members are: Harold Grinspoon, Thomas Rossi, and Marcia Rossi.

AMC RESOURCES »

REGISTER »

Officers

• Chair: Kathy Martin
• Vice Chair: Vacant
• Treasurers: Deb Weisenstein & Warren Buhl
• Secretary: Mary Hogan

Committee Chairs and Coordinators

• 20s/30s: Hew Hart
• AT Management: Russ Skelton
• Bicycling: Robyn Maislin
• Communications: Jeannette Pierce
• Community Engagement: Dawne Piers-Gamble
• Conservation: Vacant
• Family Programs: Laura Stinnette
• Hiking: Mike April
• Membership: Kathy Kindness
• Mountaineering: Chris Neil and Danielle Rich
• New England Trail Management: Vacant
• Paddling: Deb Weisenstein and Bonna Wieler
• Training and Education: Kayla Crowe
• Member at Large: Kim Carlino
• Member at Large: John Adams
• Webmaster: Lisa Taylor
• Past Chair: Diane Jones

In honor of the native tribes that roamed this area, we should always be mindful of protecting the trails and wild places for generations to come. Remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles. Other ways to become stewards of the trails is to bring a bag to pick up trash on your hike, clear branches along the trail, or come volunteer with us on trail maintenance outings. You can browse all upcoming activities here.

The 2025 AMC Photo Contest welcomes images of nature and recreation taken in the Northeast and the Mid-Atlantic. This year's categories are:

• Joyful Experiences: Share your candid shots from an outdoor adventure.
• Welcoming Community: Share your images of human connection in the outdoors.
• Critical Landscapes: Share your images that capture the natural beauty of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.
• Outdoor Access: Share photos that celebrate the tools, gear, guides, and open gates that break down barriers to the outdoors!

The entry period runs from October 3 to November 2, 2025. Winners will receive AMC prize packs and outdoor gear, plus be featured on AMC's website, social media, and in our member magazine. LEARN MORE »

MORE PHOTOS »

Member Jim Pelletier will present on wildlife in western MA, and will update us on the Mass Pike wildlife bridges study. Member Dani Rich will share how being outdoors can be beneficial to our mental health and social well-being. As part of our commitment to giving back to the communities where we live, work, and recreate, our chapter is collecting lightly used winter gear for unhoused individuals across western MA. Please consider bringing gently used winter coats (insulated, softshell, Gore-Tex, hardshell, or fleece), winter boots, hats, gloves, or scarves. Your donations will help keep someone warm this winter. Thank you for your support! Our gathering will include light refreshments and a cash-only bar. Space is limited so sign up today! REGISTER »

No registration is required. Just bring your kids up to Noble View (635 S. Quarter Road in Russell) whenever you have time and stroll along the 1-mile, accessible trail to read this delightful story. A bonus right now is the stunning fall foliage! Drive about a half mile up the dirt road to the main parking lot. The trail starts there.

As the Appalachian Mountain Club approaches its historic 150^th anniversary in 2026, we take a moment to reflect on what has made this journey so extraordinary: you. For a century and a half, AMC has connected people to the outdoors through recreation, education, and conservation – and this milestone year is a chance to celebrate that shared legacy in meaningful ways. From the inspiring stories being collected for our 150^th Anniversary Relay, to the dedicated stewardship of trails like the New England National Scenic Trail, and the vibrant gatherings of local chapters like our upcoming Western MA Annual Meeting, each piece highlights the heart of AMC: its people. Whether you're hiking a segment of the 1,500-mile relay, maintaining a beloved trail, or joining us for a celebration in South Deerfield, you are part of a community that honors the past while shaping the future of outdoor adventure. Together, these stories show what it means to belong to the AMC family – and why the next 150 years look brighter than ever. Kathy Martin, Western MA Chapter Chair

Tell Us Your AMC Story!

As you may have heard, AMC will be celebrating a very exciting milestone in 2026 – its 150^th anniversary. Since 1876, AMC has connected people to the outdoors through recreation, education, and conservation. In 2026, we celebrate 150 years of that legacy with the AMC 150^th Relay – a 1,500-mile journey from VA to MA. Join the celebration by participating in a relay segment, attending a local event or sharing your AMC story. AMC has invited hikers, paddlers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts to participate in a remarkable journey. From VA to MA, trained AMC leaders will hike, paddle, bike and climb along the route, passing along a commemorative banner. You will be able to sign up for a segment in the same way you would any other activity you have joined in the past. As we celebrate 150 years of adventure, community, and conservation, we want to hear from you. AMC is powered by people – your adventures, your connections, and your love for the outdoors. For 150 years, your experiences have shaped our legacy. Now we are gathering stories that reflect that legacy. Every submission will become part of our archives, helping us preserve the history of the oldest conservation and recreation organization in the country. Click here to submit your story. Together, we'll honor the past and shape the future of outdoor adventure.

The NET Committee

This month we'd like to highlight the Western MA Chapter's New England Trail (NET) Committee. The NET Committee is the primary steward for the National New England Scenic Trail, a 235-mile trail that has been in existence for over half a century. This federally-designated trail travels through 39 communities in CT and MA, and is composed primarily of the historic Mattabesett, Metacomet, and Monadnock (MMM or Triple-M) trails. There are 19 sections in MA that the NET Committee maintains. We are very grateful to all the section adopters who work year-round to keep the trail safe and accessible. The NET Committee:

• Meets monthly October-April and then bimonthly during the months of May-September.
• Trains and recruits Trail Adopters for the 19 sections it maintains.
• Makes site assessment visits for potential work party projects.
• Coordinates a Spring meeting and training event, as well as a Fall Trail Adopter appreciation dinner.
• Keeps the Trail Adopters updated on new training opportunities that include chainsaw certification, wilderness first aid (WFA), and other trail maintenance workshop.

We would like to acknowledge the contributions of Kevin Pelosky, the past Chair of the NET Committee, who recently completed his three year term as Committee Chair. In addition to Committee Chair, Kevin has been an active volunteer in the Committee and a trail maintainer for sections 11 and 15 for many years. We are grateful to Kevin for sharing his skills and passion for the outdoors with us! There is now an opportunity for someone to share their love of the outdoors, and the New England Trail specifically, as the new NET Committee Chair. Learn more here.

Western MA Annual Meeting and Celebration

Where: Polish American Citizens' Club, 46 S. Main St, South Deerfield, MA, 01373
What: Socialize, grab some AMC swag, and celebrate our fabulous chapter! It's time to register for the annual dinner! Join us for a FREE social gathering and the business meeting of the AMC Western MA Chapter. We'll elect our new slate of officers, review the year's accomplishments, and share plans for 2026 - the 150^th anniversary of AMC. Member Jim Pelletier will present on wildlife in Western MA, and will update us on the Mass Pike wildlife bridges study. Member Dani Rich will share how being outdoors can be beneficial to our mental health and social well-being. As part of our commitment to giving back to the communities where we live, work, and recreate, our chapter is collecting lightly used winter gear for unhoused individuals across western Massachusetts. Please consider bringing gently used winter coats (insulated, softshell, Gore-Tex, hardshell, or fleece), winter boots, hats, gloves, or scarves. Your donations will help keep someone warm this winter—thank you for your support! Our gathering will include light refreshments and a cash-only bar. Space is limited so sign up today!

Volunteer Opportunity: Help Get the Protect Water and Nature Initiative on the Ballot!

Want to make a difference for trails, land, and water across the state? Become a Regional Signature Gathering Lead for the Nature for MA campaign and help AMC put a question on the 2026 ballot to dedicate funding to protect water and nature. This is a great way to connect with your community, support the outdoors, and advocate for lasting environmental protection. Interested? Reach out to amcconservation@outdoors.org for more info or sign up here for an information session.

REGISTER »

Member Jim Pelletier will present on wildlife in western MA, and will update us on the Mass Pike wildlife bridges study. Member Dani Rich will share how being outdoors can be beneficial to our mental health and social well-being. As part of our commitment to giving back to the communities where we live, work, and recreate, our chapter is collecting lightly used winter gear for unhoused individuals across western MA. Please consider bringing gently used winter coats (insulated, softshell, Gore-Tex, hardshell, or fleece), winter boots, hats, gloves, or scarves. Your donations will help keep someone warm this winter. Thank you for your support! Our gathering will include light refreshments and a cash-only bar. Space is limited so sign up today! REGISTER »

This promotion is for newly joining members only. Please send any questions to Jon Cocina, Director of Membership at jconina@outdoors.org. Become a member to support AMC's conservation efforts and join the fun!

SIGN UP HERE »

AMC RESOURCES »

MORE INFORMATION »

THE TREK »

ATC »

• Youth Deer Hunt Day: September 27
• Shotgun Season: December 1 – December 13
• Primitive Firearms Season: December 15 – December 31
• Turkey
  • Archery only: October 6 – October 18
  • Shotgun, muzzleloading shotgun, or archery: October 20 – November 1
  • Archery only: November 3 – November 29

MA HUNTING SEASONS »

The five-mile loop provided pretty views of the West Branch of the Westfield River and a chance to see three of the majestic keystone arch bridges built in the 1830s. The double bridge is found right next to the trail head parking lot and is still in use today. The two other bridges are no longer used since the track was rerouted in 1912 but have remained standing and are now part of the trail as you walk over them. After the hike, many of the participants visited the Chester Railway Museum for a private tour by Dave Pierce, President of the Chester Foundation and the Friends of the Keystone Arch Bridges. Dave shared many interesting and fun facts about the bridges and the history of the area. Many thanks to Dave for volunteering his time to share his wealth of knowledge! MORE PHOTOS »

Thirty women from MA, some surrounding states, and as far away as VA, gathered at the AMC Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell on Saturday to learn, play and enjoy the outdoors together. Workshops throughout the day included painting, creative writing, yoga, orienteering, plant identification, edible and medicinal plants, and of course some hikes on the beautiful trails at Noble View. Participants shared breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as comradery and friendships - seeing old friends and making new ones. When the tornado warning sounded, everyone went inside the North Cottage, the musicians broke out their instruments and they had an impromptu sing-along until they could go back outside. A huge shout-out to Dawne Piers-Gamble, the Community Engagement Chair for the Western MA Chapter, for organizing the event, to all the experts who came to share their knowledge, and to all the volunteers who helped Dawne! What an incredible event! MORE PHOTOS »

REGISTER »

September. One of the best months of the year to get out and enjoy the outdoors. The temperatures are cooler and the bugs seem to disappear. We have lots of opportunities to join the fun with us – hikes, bike, rides, yoga, family activities, paddling, events for young members and so much more! There are several ways to stay informed of what's coming up: the Chapter Activities page of our website, the Activities Calendar to browse by date, and the AMC website to search for activities anywhere in the western MA area. We hope you will join us!