Greetings nature lovers and budding naturalists,
It has been a year unlike any other. Shortly after our March meeting we closed the Environmental Center, cancelled field trips and programs, and hunkered down as the Covid 19 Pandemic soared across the country. We shifted to the virtual world to gather and share information, which is something that many of us were not prepared to do. We have been actively using social media, communicating through email, and hosting nature programs using the Zoom platform. This may not be ideal for a group of nature lovers like ourselves, but it is the best we can do to keep each other safe during this strange time. The ABNC will continue using best practices for containing the virus while still encouraging people to enjoy the beauty and natural surroundings of our region independently until we can safely gather in person again.
Many groups and organizations are cutting back on dues and appreciate anyone who feels that with these hard-financial times they are unable to pay their usual amount. Please pay or donate what you are able to do comfortably. We appreciate any amount! We will continue to maintain the Environmental Center, and natural history collection while providing limited field trips and some interesting online experiences for our members and friends. No one is ever denied participation in our events because of financial hardship. We will continue to do our best to provide quality programming with the limited resources we have access to.
The Environmental Center will remain closed to large groups likely until Governor Baker announces a Phase 4 opening of the state. We are in communication with the Town’s Health Agent and a written plan for re-opening is being drafted.
There is a silver lining for our humble little Nature Club. We have been awarded a Community Outreach Grant from the New England Grassroots Foundation. This grant has allowed us access to a Zoom Webinar account, an upgrade to our website (in progress), and help from AOTV to produce a series of outdoor educational videos for children. Exciting projects are keeping many of our Board of Directors, members, and friends busy. If you are interested in helping on any of these projects, please contact Dave@atholbirdclub.org.
We can’t wait to see you all again in person once we are able. Get out and enjoy the natural world, stay healthy and safe!
Sincerely,
David H Small
President, Athol Bird and Nature Club
Thank you for your continued support. You are welcome to join or Renew online at any time.