The future of Pioneer Valley farmland is in our hands

If you're a Pioneer Valley native, you may not realize what a unique region surrounds you. As a recent transplant from upstate New York, I have observed how nature, culture, education and agriculture come together here in a rich, productive tapestry that few other areas in the northeast can claim. Because of this tapestry, locally grown foods are plentiful and accessible today. But what will happen in the future?

Birds make early return to region

The Audubon Society has reported a variety of recent bird sightings in western Massachusetts.

Heading Outdoors

Predator Ecology - Wildlife tracking program today, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, Easthampton. Preregistration is required. Fee: $15. Call 584-3009 or send an email to arcadia@massaudubon.org.

Valley Views

Winter View near Coolidge Bridge

Aqua Vita Road, Hadley

Photograph and text by Donna Gulow of Williamsburg

I travel over the Coolidge Bridge daily. Many times the trees are covered with frost in the winter from their proximity to the Connecticut River. I had often thought about stopping to capture an image, but I'm usually on my way to work.

Ways to help

-- Buy local products at farmers markets, CSA farms, or at individual farm stands.

-- Encourage your grocery store to carry local foods.

-- Support your town's Community Preservation Act (CPA) Fund. It provides a critical source of funding for land protection.

-- Support your town's efforts to permanently preserve farmland.

Caution needed in biomass use; save on water

Dear EarthTalk: I understand that some companies are now looking to cut down forests and burn them as "biomass" for generating electricity. Is nothing sacred?

- Audrey Barklay, Newark, N.J.

Amherst dickcissel makes exit

The Audubon Society has reported a variety of recent bird sightings in western Massachusetts.

Two snow geese and a cackling goose were on the campus pond at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, but the dickcissel, which had been seen for several weeks, has not been reported in South Amherst since Sunday.