BOSTON— State Senator Jason Lewis, State Representative Paul Donato, and members of the state legislature’s Middlesex Fells Caucus successfully advocated for a $60,000 earmark for the Friends of the Fells as part of the Fiscal Year 2023 state budget. This funding will support increased safety and responsible stewardship of the Middlesex Fells Reservation.
Senator Lewis and Representative Donato serve as the co-chairs of the Middlesex Fells Caucus. The other members of the caucus include: Senators Brendan Crighton and Pat Jehlen, and Representatives Christine Barber, Michael Day, Sean Garballey, Kate Lipper-Garabedian, and Steven Ultrino. The goal of the caucus is to advocate for funding and policies that promote conservation and provide sustainable recreational opportunities for all to enjoy the Middlesex Fells. The caucus works closely with the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) which manages the Fells, as well as the Friends of the Fells and other stakeholder groups.
“The Middlesex Fells is a wonderful resource available to our communities, but it faces a variety of challenges, including balancing recreational opportunities for all with responsible stewardship,” said Senator Jason Lewis. “I’m excited that this state funding will help support the Sustainable Fells campaign being rolled out by the Friends of the Fells.”
“The Fells is an amazing resource for our communities. This funding will ensure that visitors to this state park feel safe while visiting, and also provide resources to ensure that the Fells is protected and healthy for generations to come,” said Representative Donato.
“This award will boost our collaboration with DCR, state and municipal police, elected officials, and nonprofit partners to promote a culture in the Middlesex Fells where everyone is welcome, visitors feel safe, and opportunities are provided for park guests to actively participate in preserving the nature and wildlife in the Fells for future generations,” said Friends of the Fells Executive Director Chris Redfern.
The FY23 state budget was enacted by both branches of the legislature earlier this month and was signed by Governor Baker.
