Interpretive Program
Wachusett Mountain State Reservation (WMSR)
The purpose of the Education, Interpretation and Visitor Services is to increase the public's awareness and appreciation of the commonwealth's natural, cultural and historical resources; and foster a sense of stewardship among citizens and visitors. From the Berkshires to the Atlantic Ocean, every year the bureau recruits, hires and trains a group of professional interpreters to seasonally staff more than 50 forests and parks statewide.
Interpreters create enriching educational programs, signage, printed materials, exhibits, as well as provide formal and informal educational opportunities for students and teachers and special events for residents and visitors.
Whether it means visiting local schools with the "Van," doing roving interpretation in campgrounds to educate visitors about camping in black bear habitat, or conducting a Junior Ranger program for budding environmental enthusiasts, interpretive professionals strive to provide quality educational opportunities that are accessible to all citizens. So, if you haven't already, we invite you, to visit one of our forests or parks to enjoy all they have to offer. And while you're there, go on an interpretive walk, talk with the interpreter, or just stop by the visitor's center, we promise you'll like what you find!
Download a PDF of the September Calendar of Events here.
Interpretive Program Special Events
Leave No Trace
When: Monday, September 24, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where: The Environmental Education Center on Mountain Rd.
Registration: Required. Limit: 40. Call (978) 464-2987 to reserve your place before September 21st.
Agenda: Let's face it - lots of people LOVE the outdoors. But being loved too much, by too many, can cause a number of environmental problems such as erosion, wilderness degradation, and water contamination if outdoor recreation isn't combined with environmentally conscious decisions.
Leave No Trace's worldwide, educational principles address these environmental issues and promote active use of outdoor recreational areas in an ethical, responsible manner, while preserving these areas for continued use for future generations.
Join us on Monday, September 24th at the Environmental Education Center on Mountain Road for a Leave No Trace awareness workshop and an introduction to the principles that will reduce the effects of human impact on the places that people love to go.
Space is limited to 40 participants, so please call (978) 464-2987 to reserve your place before September 21st.
Recurring programs
Hawk Watch
Wachusett Mountain is one of the premiere viewing areas in Eastern Massachusetts for the annual hawk migration. Bring binoculars, a chair, and a field guide with you as we set out to observe these beautiful birds in flight. You will become familiar with 'hawk' terms such as 'kettling', and 'thermals', discover what species migrates when, and where they are going. Every Saturday morning in September from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm.
Kidleidoscope Kids
A kid-friendly, hands-on environmental experience for very young children presented in a fun, age-appropriate manner. Each topic includes a story and interactive games and activities to help you and your child understand the world around us. Friday mornings from 10:30 am - 11:30 am. Programming recommended for Ages 3-6 with a parent or guardian; call ahead for the 'Topic of the Week'.
Summit Sensation
Summit Sensation is a tour of the summit area highlighting the natural and cultural history and past land use including early ownership and Native American history. Sunday afternoons from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm.
Women's Fitness Hiking
This program is designed to bring women together to hike at Wachusett Mountain, to get in shape, make friends, and discover more about the mountain and its trails, while instilling confidence, competence, and independence. Weekly routes are available at the Visitor Center; however, these are subject to change. (Hiking schedules will vary with seasons).
Junior Ranger
Become a Massachusetts Junior Ranger! Working in conjunction with the 'Junior Ranger Activity Guide', children ages 8-12 will discover how to become Stewards of the Land while interacting with their natural environment and exploring the mountain, trails, and various wildlife habitats. Hands-on activities, games, and crafts are included in this outdoor adventure, one-day-a-week for six weeks!
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