In July 2024, the Hawes Hill Conservation Corridor was finalized. BCBS is proud to have joined in this historic land conservation agreement alongside several other landowners in Barre, including our neighbors and colleagues at the Insight Meditation Society.
Eight separate properties came together to preserve over 800 acres of woods, fields, swamps, and wetlands. This land was identified by Massachusetts conservation groups as a high conservation priority due to its potential to capture and store carbon, protect water quality, and to preserve wildlife habitat in a changing climate. Developed through the support of the 30×30 Catalyst Fund, it contributes toward the state’s goal of placing 30% of its land into conservation by 2030.
The preservation of this land will be administered by the Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust and Mass Audubon. These 800 acres connect more than 3,000 acres of adjoining conservation land, supporting a wide-ranging natural habitat that wildlife can rely on for generations to come.
The land behind and around BCBS will not be developed with permanent structures, storage, roads, or anything else that could negatively impact the soil, water, or vegetation in the area. BCBS does retain the right to manage and protect the property in various appropriate ways, including the development of additional walking trails with benches for quiet contemplation.
The forests and swamps beyond the Old Farmhouse at BCBS are dense and beautiful. Having been severely depleted so that the land could be cultivated in the 1800’s, the forest is now returning to maturity. You can still see many of the old rock walls and foundations crossing the forest.
Next time you are with us on campus, we invite you to contemplate the diverse natural beauty of this place. You can explore the network of forest trails shared with IMS and the Forest Refuge, walk the Loop that includes Gaston Pond, or just sit quietly in our serene backyard with a view of Mount Wachusett. No matter the season, the beautiful natural environment will welcome you and support your practice of awakening.
May this conservation restriction be of benefit to present and future generations, including all forms of life without exception, in this region and beyond.
