Press Release: 2/26/2026

DCR Announces Completion of 218-acre Land Acquisition in Blandford

 

The land, located west of the Chester-Blandford State Forest, will be added to statewide protected forestland, enhancing wildlife movement and public access

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

2/25/2026

MEDIA CONTACT

Peter Jasinski, DCR Press Secretary

 Phone

Call Peter Jasinski, DCR Press Secretary at 617-762-6847

 Online

Email Peter Jasinski, DCR Press Secretary at peter.jasinski@mass.gov

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced the acquisition of 218 acres of forested land in the Town of Blandford, which will now be permanently protected. The land acquisition, located west of the Chester-Blandford State Forest, strengthens the connection between existing conserved properties.

“This project strengthens an important wildlife corridor for the region and protects the biodiversity that make our forests resilient,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “By conserving this land, we are safeguarding important habitat, supporting species movement, and reinforcing the natural systems that sustain clean water, healthy forests and vibrant ecosystems for generations to come. We are grateful to our partners at the Nature Conservancy and Department of Fish and Game for their collaboration in protecting this important landscape.”

The acquisition marks the latest phase of the Blandford Cross-Pike Nature Connector, a conservation initiative led by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in collaboration with DCR and the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG) to conserve land that fills gaps between larger blocks of protected conservation land along this section of the MassPike. In the first phase of the initiative, TNC purchased 580 acres of land from a private seller with the intent to sell the land to DFG and DCR for preservation. These218 acres acquired by DCR are a portion of that original property.

“Transferring this land will boost habitat protection, strengthen safe passage for animals and people, and build a more resilient landscape for the future,” said Kris Sarri, Massachusetts State Director of The Nature Conservancy. “We’re proud to work with our state partners to deliver lasting benefits for wildlife and the Berkshire communities that depend on these natural systems.”

“Partnership and collaboration are essential to advance our ambitious Biodiversity Conservation Goals. We are delighted to work with DCR and The Nature Conservancy to strategically protect key habitats like this for wildlife," said DFG Commissioner Tom O'Shea. "By conserving large, connected landscapes, we give wildlife the best chance of keeping pace with climate shifts, all while helping people connect with nature through outdoor recreation.”

The property was acquired through DCR’s Land Protection Program, which is dedicated to conserving land integral to protecting wildlife, conserving natural and cultural resources, and providing recreational opportunities to the public.

The land recently acquired by DCR was identified by the Nature Conservancy as part of a crucial area for wildlife movement. DCR’s purchase and stewardship of the property will ensure that a variety of species will continue to be able to pass through this area freely. Wildlife movement will be made easier by planned improvements to culverts beneath the Mass Pike. These upgrades will create safe pathways for animals to cross under the highway, reducing the risk of accidents to both wildlife and motorists. 

Today’s announcement demonstrates progress towards the state’s goals to protect 30% of our lands and waters by 2030 and 40% by 2050. Through the Biodiversity Goals for the Commonwealth, the state has committed to doubling the pace of land conservation to meet these ambitious targets, strategically focusing our efforts areas that are most important for wildlife. Through the Mass Ready Act, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has proposed historic investments to accelerate progress towards these goals, including $304.5 million to support state land protection programs and $20 million dedicated to advancing the Biodiversity Conservation Goals.

Prior to its purchase, a portion of the land had been part of a former Christmas tree farm. Today, the area is primarily forest, largely populated by sugar maple, hemlock, birch, and ash trees. The land also features rocky streams, which contribute to the water quality of Saunderson Brook and the Westfield River further downstream. DCR staff have found numerous signs of wildlife on the land, including deer, moose, turkeys, and bears.