Apple Country Climate Solutions

Using Nature-Based Solutions to help communities adapt to a changing climate.

The Apple Country Project focused on identifying high-leverage nature-based climate solutions for the towns of Bolton, Harvard, and Devens. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are those that support, replicate, or mimic the essential functions of intact ecosystems and/or dynamics. They are cost-effective and multi-beneficial interventions that, along with the phase-out of fossil fuels, are essential for helping communities adapt to a changing climate.

Some examples of designed nature-based solutions (as opposed to conservation-led solutions) are:

  • pollinator or hedgerow habitat strips
  • pocket forests
  • upstream rain gardens and vegetated bioswales
  • pervious pavement and hardscape surfaces

Benefits of nature-based solutions include: reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, improved water quality, reduced flooding, improved air quality, cooler local temperatures, and improved physical and mental public health.

Visit the Apple Country Project website for more information about this project.

  • Connectivity is a key ecological principle and priority for climate resilience. Strategies for increasing connectivity include reforestation, pocket forests, verge and ornamental plantings, agroforestry, and floodplain, hydrologic and wetland restoration.
    — Excerpt from Final Report

Client

Bolton, Devens, and Harvard, MA

Partners

Services

  • Stakeholder Site Walks
  • Mapping, Analysis, and Assessment of Soil Function + Characteristics
  • Recommendations based on Land Use
  • Final Report Contributions

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