Local DCR Events and Activities Scheduled for August

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and  Recreation will be holding the following events for August 2021 Programs at Belle Isle Marsh Reservation 

All programs are free and open to the public. Bring water, use sunscreen, dress in comfortable light-colored clothing, and wear sturdy closed toe shoes. Insect repellent is recommended. An adult must accompany children. Inclement weather cancels outdoor programs. Reasonable accommodations upon advance request. For more information call 781-656-1485 or visit: Website https://www.mass.gov/locations/belle-isle-marsh-reservation or Email Matthew Nash at Matthew.Nash@mass.gov   

An Oasis for Birds at Belle Isle Marsh Reservation & Vicinity   

Saturday, August 7 & 21 7:30–8:30 a.m.  

Meets every 1st & 3rd Saturday of the Month throughout the year except on State Holidays. Both beginner and advance birders will enjoy discovering & learning about the fascinating birds of Belle Isle Marsh and vicinity. Belle Isle Marsh is a restored wildlife habitat that attracts a yearly count of 265 species of birds. Insect repellent is strongly recommended. Be prepared to travel by car or bicycle for up to 8 miles round trip to Winthrop beach, a known birding hotspot, and expect to be on your feet and walking for about a half mile. Appropriate for adults and teens but all ages are welcome. C0-sponsored by the Friends of Belle Isle Marsh.  Meet in the parking lot, at 1399 Bennington Street, East Boston, MA  

August 2021 Events at Short Beach 

All programs are free and open to the public. Bring water, use sunscreen, dress in comfortable clothing, and wear sturdy closed toe shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. An adult must accompany children. Inclement weather cancels outdoor programs. Reasonable accommodations upon advance request. For more information call 781-656-1485 or Email Matthew Nash at Matthew.Nash@mass.gov    

Tidepool Discovery at Short Beach 

Wednesday August 18   1:30-2:30 p.m.  

Discover and learn about the fascinating plants and animals of the tidepool and why we should care for both these fragile creatures and the tidepool that represents their home. Nets will be provided for brief capture and release of the tidepool creatures. Be prepared for slippery rocks and for getting your feet wet. Co-sponsored by the Friends of Belle Isle Marsh. Meet beachside on the sidewalk at 1199 Winthrop Ave, Revere, MA on the border between the City of Revere and Town of Winthrop.  

 The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), an agency of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, oversees 450,000 acres of parks and forests, beaches, bike trails, watersheds, dams, and parkways. Led by Commissioner Jim Montgomery, the agency’s mission is to protect, promote, and enhance our commonwealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs, please visit  www.mass.gov/dcr