Springtime Happenings in the Western MA Chapter

I must have packed and repacked my backpack a million times this spring... one day it's cold, the next it's hot, then it snows just to keep things interesting! But don't despair! Warmer weather is coming, and summer officially isn't far behind. Things are really starting to pick up across the Western MA Chapter, and it's such a fun time to be part of it. Our calendar is filled with hikes, trail work, bicycling, climbing, paddles, and special events — and the energy is building as the AMC 150 Relay makes its way closer to us. There are so many ways to get involved right now, whether you're looking to give back on Earth Day, explore a new trail, or join one of our many upcoming activities. It's a great time to get outside, connect, and enjoy whatever the weather decides to bring! We welcome our new members — so if you're just getting started, you're in great company. We have plenty of easier, first-time-friendly outings planned, so give one a try. No pressure, no expectations — just come out and have some fun. We all started somewhere... and who knows, you might just get hooked! Kathy Martin, Western MA Chapter Chair

Earth Day Actions

Earth Day is an annual celebration that honors the achievements of the environmental movement and raises awareness of the need to protect Earth's natural resources for future generations. Held on April 22nd, Earth Day was begun by U.S. Senator Gaylork Nelson (WI) to raise national awareness of deteriorating environmental conditions across the country. The first Earth Day on April 22, 1970 achieved a rare political alignment between Republicans and Democrats, rich and poor, urban dwellers and farmers, and business and labor leaders, and united individual activists in their fight against pollution. This led to the consolidation of environmental responsibilities under one federal government agency, the Environmental Protection Agency, and decades of regulations to curb ecological damage. Now more than ever, your help is needed to protect our natural spaces. So what can you do? Conservation is woven into all we do in the Western Massachusetts Chapter. There are many opportunities for you to join in our conservation efforts. Consider joining a wildlife transect, an invasive species removal, or trail maintenance activity. View our activities mosaic and select the Conservation button to find an outing. Or, visit AMC's website and learn how to support legislation for the environment, join the Conservation Action Network, and stay informed about initiatives and actions. Or, even simply, take a trash bag with you on your adventures and pick up rubbish along the way. Mother Earth, and all who enjoy her gifts, thank you!

Committee Highlight - Hiking

Under the leadership of Mike April, the Hiking Committee plans a variety of hiking opportunities throughout the year. There are about forty trained and experienced hiking leaders in the Western MA Chapter offering all kinds of hikes from relaxed, easy walks to vigorous hikes on challenging trails. The Committee currently has 47 posted upcoming hikes including:

• Wildflower and Journaling Hike Series
• Appalachian Trail Massachusetts Hike Series
• AMC 150th Relay Hikes
• Historic Canal Walks
• Nice and Easy Trail Walks
• Family Hikes
• Hikes for Younger Members
• Gear Swap Social

Come and explore new places, meet new folks, and experience the joy of outdoor adventures with others! Go to the Chapter Activities page and click on the Hiking button. We also want to invite you to join us for our National Trails Day celebration on Saturday, June 6th. We'ree offering hikes, trail maintenance and paddling outings, and bike rides.

The AMC 150 Relay is Heading to Western MA!

The AMC 150 Relay event celebrating the 150^th anniversary of AMC started on March 14^th in VA and is currently in PA. It will reach western MA on May 17^th, winding its way across MA on the Appalachian Trail, the New England Trail, and on roads and waterways as it makes its way to NH. There are lots of opportunities to join a hike, bike ride, or paddling outing as part of the relay. View our interactive map to track the relay that also provides links to register for all the AMC Relay activities. We'd also like to invite you to join in the AMC 150 Celebration at Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell, MA with a day of history, trails, and community. Enjoy guided walks, trail work, demonstrations, hikes, family activities, and a free BBQ as we explore Noble View's past, present, and future. The morning will consist of trail work and hikes to explore the Noble View property. From 1:00 to 4:30 PM we will have demonstrations, a presentation about the history of Noble View, a free BBQ, and cake! Please register soon as space is limited.