Friends of the Quabbin Annual Meeting

The Friends of the Quabbin will hold their Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 6, at 1:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at the Belchertown United Church of Christ, located at 18 Park Street. The meeting is free and open to the public—anyone with an interest in the Quabbin region and a desire to celebrate its natural beauty and rich history is welcome to attend.

A highlight of this year’s gathering will be a presentation by Dale Monette, a noted nature photographer from New Salem. A former employee of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Monette spent years exploring the Quabbin and has amassed a remarkable collection of wildlife and landscape photographs that capture the spirit of the region.

In addition to Monette’s presentation, the Friends will share updates on several important ongoing projects, including the restoration of the historic Keystone Bridge at Gate 33 in New Salem. Built in 1866, the bridge is in critical condition. Recognizing its historical value, the Friends have committed initial funding to begin stabilization work and are launching a fundraising campaign to support the full restoration.

Other initiatives include continued restoration efforts at the Quabbin Cemetery, a major redesign of the Friends’ website to serve as an information hub, and a variety of other preservation and education projects.

Whether you’re a current member or just curious to learn more, this is a great opportunity to meet others who care deeply about the Quabbin. All are welcome.