Who We Are Sign

About Wildlands Trust

Who we are begins with where we are.

Across New England, Southeastern Massachusetts stands apart as a region that attracts both people and nature—where there is still much nature to save. Covering 1,700 square miles, Southeastern Massachusetts is home to over 1.8 million people, one-third of the state’s population. In addition to its historical significance and convenient location between Boston and Cape Cod, residents and visitors to our region value the globally rare natural resources that define our landscape and uplift our communities.

400

70

Natural
Communities

Wildlife
Species

260

Bird
Species

Our natural communities include pine barren forests (the third-largest example in the world), Atlantic white cedar swamps (the second-largest), coastal plain ponds (home to rare dragonfly, turtle, and plant species), and salt marshes (one of North America’s most productive ecosystems).

Unfortunately, sprawling human development threatens to fragment and destroy these delicate ecosystems. There is a lot to lose, but just as much to save. That’s why Wildlands works strategically to protect the natural lands and waters of Southeastern Massachusetts and connect people and places through outdoor recreation, education, and stewardship.

Our Mission

Wildlands Trust works throughout Southeastern Massachusetts to permanently protect native habitats, farmland, and lands of high ecologic and scenic value that serve to keep our communities healthy and our residents connected to the natural world.

Our Vision

We envision a future where our region’s water and air are pure and open lands are abundant, with forests, farms, wetlands, fields, ponds and coastal areas commonplace sightings on our landscape.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Wildlands Trust is committed to protecting land and providing access to nature for all people, regardless of income, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We will approach our work with complete respect for the cultures and perspectives of the communities we serve as we endeavor to connect and inspire people to care about the natural world and the future of our planet. 

Board of Directors

Chairman Emeritus - Douglas E. Hart, Duxbury
Chairman - Samuel Chapin, Plymouth
Vice Chairman - Scott Ford, Braintree
Treasurer - Greg Lucini, Berkley
Secretary - Deborah Sedares, Plymouth

Director Emerita - Charlotte Russell, Plymouth
Marilynn Atterbury, Plymouth
Matthew Cammack, Milton
Crystal Farrar Gould, North Marshfield
Brian Harrington, Plymouth
Bill Harris, Plymouth
John Hornstra, Hingham
Lucy Hutchinson, North Marshfield
Patricia Loring, Duxbury
Virginia M. Murray, Plymouth
Sandy Olney, Duxbury
Gail O’Rourke, Plymouth
Wayne R. Petersen, Hingham
Mark Russo, Plympton
Peter Tyack, Hanover 
Ethan Warren, Plymouth 

Special Counsel:

Michael S. Nuesse, Hull