AMC Berkshire Chapter

As you may know, the American Chestnut tree used to be a prolific provider of nourishment over the winter months, and the tree was found all over the Eastern seaboard. However, in 1904 a bark blight was introduced from Asia, which spread and destroyed almost all the trees. Now, once the tree grows enough to develop bark, the fungus girdles and topples it. The tree still lives with sprouts coming from around the trunk. For many years, dedicated organizations have been trying to breed blight-resistant trees.

On Saturday, May 17, 9 AM - 12:30 PM, free workshop for educators. Join other educators and AMC's professional education staff for fun, informal activities and discussion. We will network and learn more about the AMC's educational programs for students and educators. The group will share ideas about how educators can work together with the AMC staff to provide students fun, engaging outdoor learning experiences and how we can work together to overcome any real or perceived barriers to environmental education and outdoor learning experiences.

Got "Ferry Tales?" Click here to link to our BK Paddlers' 2014 Spring Newsletter. It has all you need to check on Berkshire paddling trips, boat rentals, H20 web links and more!

For a list of archived editions goto: http://amcberkshire.org/ferry_tales.

On December 29th Family Outings went on a trip to Central Rock in Hadley. There were 42 people present from ages 4 and up. Three volunteers, Adam, Chris and Ingrid from the AMC assisted with bouldering and belaying, and pizza was provided afterwards. The family in the photos are the Stathatos' Family, Pete, Jen, Nick, Jack and PJ. The first picture is of Family Outings Chair Heather Wyman.

There are always amazing things happening in the outdoors, and all of them leave stories. Tracking is fun way to learn: it puts the QUEST back into question and the SEARCH back into research. Engage all the senses: touching the tracks, listening to birds and other woodland residents, and examining markings left behind on trees. Come hike with us as we gain a deeper understanding of the forest in winter and discover who is out and about at Noble View. Snowshoes required.

Save the Date: AMC Berkshire Annual Member (and guest) Potluck, Genesis Conference Center, 53 Mill Street, Westfield MA

Enter your best photos on/of the New England National Scenic Trail to our first ever photo contest on Facebook. The winner will have their image featured as our cover photo during the month of January, and will receive a signed copy of Barbara Bosworth's catalog and a NET coffee mug! Contest begins Sunday, December 1st and closes on Tuesday, December 31st. Photos should include a brief caption and may include people, vistas, wildlife and more – be creative! The photo at the end of the month with the most “likes” will be the winner.

Wild Edibles Foraging Workshop

We are fortunate in the Appalachian Mountain Club chapters to be able to apply for funds for Special Projects like trail work and conservation-oriented events. We recently received funds for a conservation workshop like this, foraging for wild edibles in the heart of the Hilltowns.