Connect
To sustainably grow Massachusetts state parks, they must be safe, connected and accessible by bike, walking or public transit.
OUR GOAL
Making Friends
MPA is a friend of park friends groups, and other local organizations supporting our parks. We created a 200+ member organization database. This allows us to communicate with groups, groups to communicate with each other, and all of us to communicate with the Administration and the Legislature with an informed, united voice. We use this information to generate sign-on letters, fundraise, and educate stakeholders.
Joining Coalitions
We belong to:
The Environmental Bond Bill Coalition, which supported our position on getting DCR at least $787M and $400M in bond authorizations for general park projects and parkways projects, respectively.
The Nature for Massachusetts Coalition, in support of legislation (H.901/S.597), which would divert the existing state sales tax, estimated to be up to $100 million annually, on various sporting goods to a dedicated conservation fund. A parallel ballot initiative, the Protect Water and Nature Initiative, will be before in November 2026.
The Mass Central Rail Trail Alliance, which supports active collaboration among 27 towns and related trail organizations seeking to complete a safe MCRT route across Massachusetts. The MCRT Alliance works toward the vision of a beautiful, safe, and complete rail trail between Northampton and Boston that serves as a resource to local communities and travelers worldwide.
The Trails Access Working Group, led by state Office of Outdoor Recreation Director Paul Jahnige, which developed a plan to increase accessible trails in Massachusetts in conjunction with DCR’s Universal Access Program.
We also work as advocates for the parks with the governor-appointed members of the DCR Stewardship Council, which acts as a board of directors for DCR.