The value of interacting with nature has never been clearer. Our vision is to expand the opportunities for people—especially within our local community—to connect with nature and the plants and wildlife that play an important role in our ecosystem. A more sustainable world starts right here in Plymouth.

For 50 years, Manomet’s staff and interns have worked to educate, train, and engage people of all ages and interest levels on the importance of getting outside and understanding human impact on the natural world. From inviting local schools to visit our banding lab for a live demonstration, to bringing our research to classrooms, conferences, and partner stations across the world, our reach has extended far beyond our Plymouth headquarters.

In 1991, Manomet purchased the neighboring Holmes Farm property in order to prevent further development and preserve the land for the integrity of our research on bird migration and habitat management. Since then, we have continued to manage these 20 acres as a grassland, preserving the aesthetic beauty and natural benefits that this land provides. Manomet recently secured a $100,000 grant from the Mass Cultural Council (MCC) to restore the farm’s abandoned cranberry bogs into vibrant wetland habitat, offering educational and recreational opportunities for Plymouth’s visitors and local residents.  Manomet needs to raise an additional $100,000 to unlock the funds from the MCC and bring this project to life.

OUR PLANS

  • Restore the abandoned cranberry bogs into the native wetlands they once were, increasing the diversity of native vegetation and leading to increased year-round bird and wildlife presence.
  • Create an interpretive trail with signage educating visitors about our plantings for native pollinators, our management of the grasslands, and the diversity of life that can be found in small wetlands.
  • Build a wildlife viewing blind allowing visitors to enjoy a successful wetland restoration and take advantage of the wildlife viewing and photographing opportunities unique to our property’s coastal forest habitat.

An American Goldfinch rests on the flowering stalk of blazing star in late summer. Photo by Alan Kneidel, Manomet Staff

A local birding group observes a rare Western Kingbird on the Holmes Farm. The establishment of an interpretive trail through the property will create a safe pathway through the property for nature enthusiasts, free from car traffic. Photo by Evan Dalton, Manomet staff.

Birders on the Manomet property

Accessibility is key. In 2015, we used funds from the MCC to create an ADA-compliant walkway and outdoor classroom for our banding lab, part of our Landbird Conservation Program. As part of this project, we will extend the accessible walkway so that it reaches our bluff overlooking Cape Cod Bay (a true showcase feature of the property). By ensuring that the viewing blind and walkway are ADA-compliant, we will be guaranteeing that these new features are accessible to everyone.

This project will not only increase local habitat for wildlife, but it will enhance our ability to carry out our mission of connecting people to the natural world.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

You can help us unlock $100,000 from the MCC and bring this project to life.

Every dollar makes a difference. Please consider making a donation TODAY! To make sure your support is directed to this project, please note Holmes Farm Habitat in the ‘Leave a Comment’ box.

Donate Today!