The ecosystems of the Fells are under threat from habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and climate change-related impacts.
Our staff and volunteers are meeting these threats head-on by expanding our projects and programs to protect and enhance the ecology of the Fells so it can thrive and be enjoyed for generations to come.
Download a printable PDF version of the report here.
A few highlights of our work in 2025 include:
Reconnecting fragmented habitats
The Fells is crisscrossed with nearly 100 miles of unauthorized trails that fragment habitats, reduce habitat quality, and decrease the size of undisturbed spaces where wildlife can thrive. In partnership with DCR and Earthwise Aware, we used science-based approaches to knit back together fragmented habitats by closing unauthorized trails in the Whip Hill area of the Fells. Learn more.
Repairing vital trail systems
The Fells is enjoyed by many visitors who benefit from the physical health and mental well-being of time in nature. However, this heavy utilization comes with downsides for the natural infrastructure of the park, including trail erosion, habitat trampling, and other environmental impacts.
This year, we established a Fells Trail Crew to address these impacts in earnest. Working with more than 85 volunteers over several work events, we completed trail revitalization projects to address trail flooding and erosion at Whitmore Brook and repair eroded stone steps along the popular Cross Fells trail.
Managing invasive plants that harm habitats
Invasive plants crowd out native plants and weaken the resilience of ecosystems in the Fells. Last year, we worked with hundreds of volunteers to mitigate this threat by cutting, uprooting, and clearing buckthorn, garlic mustard, and porcelain berry at priority sites in the Fells.
A variety of volunteer groups also pitched in, including run clubs, Boy Scout troops, corporate volunteers, and local high school students participating in service-learning field trips. Learn more.
Building an inclusive community of care for the Fells
Partnering with local Indigenous Tribes
This year, we established partnerships with local Indigenous tribes for our first Native Land Learning series. Funded by a Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area grant, our Native Land Learning series allowed us to invite local tribal leaders to the Fells to lead educational hikes and discussions. Through this collaboration, we learned how to better engage Indigenous tribes in our land stewardship work. Learn more.
Cultivating the next generation of stewards at Fells Forest Camp
Over 600 campers explored the Fells through unstructured, nature-based learning. Campers spotted deer and dragonflies while navigating the wooded trails, became familiar with the sensitive ecology of the forest, and gained confidence outdoors. Learn more.
Bringing students into the Fells for after-school nature adventures
For the second year, students in the Fells after-school hiking program experienced new challenges of trail hiking and outdoor exploration, developed observation skills, and became more at home in nature. The Fells after-school hiking program is delivered in collaboration with Malden Out of School Time. Learn more.
Continuing our popular Babes in the Woods program
Over 200 families participated in Babes in the Woods, a popular hiking program designed for caregivers who carry their children. Hikes are offered every week, all year long, weather permitting. Learn more.
Be Kind! pet waste stations promote ecological responsibility
Fells visitors consistently tell us that abandoned dog waste is one of the most frustrating environmental concerns they encounter in the Fells. To protect the ecology of the Fells and reduce the spread of disease to both pets and wildlife, this year we installed two pilot pet waste stations in partnership with DCR.
The pilot is a complement to our “Be Kind!” public awareness campaign, which shares meaningful ways to protect the Fells and ensure it is a safe and welcoming space for all, including pets. Learn more.
Our work comes to life with your support!
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Finances
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