Kestrel Land Trust is collaborating with active elders at two retirement communities in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts: Lathrop and Applewood.

So far programs with residents have included creating garden beds, removing invasive species, planting trees, birding at breakfast and even gentle yoga. Kestrel hopes to engage these older folks in the protection of open space close to home, as part of a network of conservation lands across the region that are welcoming to all ages and all abilities.