Trail Blazers

Trail Blazing

A Resource Guide to Outdoor Recreation in the Berkshires

Photo via flickr, by Robert of Fairfax

Thank You Special thanks to Ashley Sulock, coordinator of the Berkshire Leadership Program, Barb ara Emanuel, Chair of the BLP Steering Committee, retreat facilitator Deb Blatt, all of our host venues, and the entire BLP committee, which consists of som e of the most dedicated professionals in the Berkshires: Christina Barrett Christina Cruz Barbara Emanuel Danielle Gonzalez Rob Kestyn Shannon Miller Patricia Purdy Brian Astorino Nina Garlington Ruth Healy Carol Leibinger - Healey John Masten Meghan Robe rtson Matt Herzberg Kelly Baker Jackie Dolan Patricia Haraden Denise Johns Ashley Sulock Michael Supranowicz Sincerely, The Berkshire Leadership Program, Class of 2012

A publication by The Berkshire Chamber of Commerce Berkshire Leadership Program Class of 2012

About Trail Blazing A Resource Guide to Outdoor Rec reation in the Berkshires In addition to serving as a guide to experiencing and taking advantage of local outdoor recreation, Trail Blazing highlights the varied industries that benefit from and work toward enhancing the natural beauty of the Berkshires.

By strengthening the communications , emphasizing the accessibility , and promoting the visibility of outdoor recreational opportunities in the Berkshires, the BLP class of 2012 aims to encourage visitors, residents, and businesses to take a closer look at and invest more into the Berkshires and all it has to offer.

This online publication is designed to be linked and easily shared with community resources, such as the 1Berkshire Strategic Alliance, Inc. and its partner organizations.

INDEX Commun ity Service By: Beth Leibinger | Natale Reed | Emily Shoestock | Jaclyn Stevenson

Education By: Megan Konieczny | Luci Leonard | Eddie Taylor | Donna Todd Rivers

Energy & Environment By: Brad Felix | Roger Pierson

Government By: Melissa Guyer | Sheila Mason | Chris MacDonald

Health Care By: Steve Rogers | Mark Placido | Tricia Hunt | Tim Cherubini

Leadership By: John Bortolotto | Justin Wells

Tourism and the Creative Economy By: Jess Catalano | Shannon Johndro | Christie Moran | Sara h Sweet

Workfor ce Development By: Phil Cohen | Michele Shelton | Jenn Smith | Darci Toomey

Community Service Berkshire County is home to a number of community service organizations that offer and/or benefit from outdoor recreation. This list represents just a few opportunities across the region.

Cost - 0 - $20 - $20 - 50 - $50 - $100 - $100+

American Red Cross The Red Cross offers Wilderness and Remote First - Aid Training Classes designed for scouts, outdoor enthusiasts and those working in remote environments. Topics include heat - related emergencie s, allergies and anaphylaxis, burns, bone and joint injuries, and more. Participants must be at least 14 years old and hold current adult CPR/AED certification.

Appalachian Mountain Club The Berkshire Two - week Teen Crew ’s two - week Stewardship program is an opportunity for teens ages 15 - 19 to really engage with trail work, trail crews, camping, environmental stewardship and outdoor leadership .

Berkshire Environmental Action Team BEAT organizes regular River Clean - up Events in the spring, summer, and fall. There are opportunities for all levels of part icipation – from lunch duty, to picking up trash along the riverbanks, to getting right in the water and pulling out tires and shopping carts. Everyone is welcome.

Berkshire Natural Resources Council Help conserve natural resources for public benefit an d enjoyment by volunteering in a trail cleanup day or being trained as a wildlife monitor. The BNRC also offers free hikes several times weekly, and will host daily events in central Berkshire County for the Yokun R idge Celebration during the first two weeks in August.

BerkshireSports.org Find listings of upcoming road races, bike races, and other charity sports events in Berkshire County.

Center for Ec oTechnology (CET) Held once a year in early summer, area middle school students gather for the Berkshire Junior Solar Sprint (JSS). Students from across and beyond Berkshire County participate in this event. Started by the U.S. Department of Energy in 1991, it exposes students to photovoltaic technology and its potential for their future. The JSS is a competition for students in grades 5 - 8 who work in teams to design, build and race model vehicl es powered by the sun.

Environmental Protection Agency Get outside with your smartphone or video camera to help a great cause: To help commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is asking people t o send in a 15 - second video clip about the important role that water plays in their lives. Each video should include the phrase “Water Is Worth It,� but the rest is up to you. EPA w ill post selected videos on its website and Facebook page. Video submissions must be received by September 14, 2012.

Golf the Berkshires Visit Golf the Berkshires for listings of charity golf to urnaments in Berkshire County and surrounding areas.

(Entry fees vary)

Grow a Row North Berkshire Mass in Motion and Hoosac Harvest are joining together to implement a new Growing A Row initiative in the northern Berkshires. Home gardeners, community members, schools and community centers are being asked to plant an extra row of vegetables or provide any extra produce to be donated to local food pantries or feeding sites. This will provide access to fresh, local foods, and help to decrease hunger and improve the health of those in need.

Housatonic Valley Association The HVA regularly organizes guided paddle tours and hikes a long the Housatonic River, offering information about the river system and its challenges. HVA can supply canoes, paddles, and life jackets to those who need them, or bring your own.

The Jim Lambert Ice Fishing Derby Designed to help kids and adults le arn more about the sport of ice fishing, this annual event offers outdoor winter activities throughout the day as well as ice fishing lessons from professionals and contests for largest catches .

Massachusetts Appalachian Trail Committee Become an Appalachian Trail volunteer on National Trails Day at Mount Greylock State Reservation. Learn about volunteer opportunities or simply take a hike. Brea k - out workshops during the day include demonstrations of proper trail maintenance, identifying natural heritage species, and guided hikes.

Mass Audubon Mass Audubon sponsors Fr ee Discovery Days at participating wildlife sanctuaries in the Berkshires. On these days, visitors can enjoy free admission and activities for all ages, including guided nature walks, native plant sales, book signings, puppet shows, and more.

United Ce rebral Palsy of Berkshire County UCP offers a Children’s Fun Club and Skill - building Program for children of varying abilities.

Westfiel d River Wild & Scenic Association Take part in free Wild & Scenic Trainings for community members and volunteers.

Walk a section with a pro to learn how to collect data and document findings, explore ge ology along the Westfield River, and help monitor species of concern. Call to sign up.

Youth Center Inc. Serving the towns of Adams, Cheshire and Savoy, Youth Center Inc . offers a Drop - In Center, Monday - Friday f rom 12:30 - 6 p.m. Outdoor activities include ‘Survivor’ challenges, gardening classes, and hiking science projects. A free summer camp is offered to residents of Adams, or at a cost of $25 a week for residents of Cheshire and Savoy. Recurring events sponsor ed by YCI include Family Campfire Nights, School Vacation Fun Weeks, free family swims and golf days, and trail races.

Education Outdoor Recreation is an educational resource in the Berkshires Increase your awareness about the top educational res ources available within the culture of outdoor recreation in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, starting here.

Communicating the value of these educational resources will improve the relationship of Berkshire County’s community with its natural reso urces and rich history. Providing more visibility to these educational opportunities highlights outdoor recreation as one of the many values of living and working here in the Berkshires as it contributes to the field of education, community leadership and quality of life.

Arunah Hill Natural Science Center, Inc. Arunah Hill is a non - profit public service, providing science nature and education located in nearby Cummington, Mass. As the center’s mission statement states, “Arunah Hill was incorporated as a non - profit organization to create and maintain: A Dark Sky Observing Site for Members, Astronomers, and the Public.

An Environmental, Botanical, and Wildlife Preserve.

A Research Facility for Astronomy and Science.

An Educational Facility for Astrono my, Science, and Nature .”

Arunah Hill provides an educational outreach program that includes access to Evening Observing Sessions as well as solar observing. The center also organizes class visits for community groups and schools. www.arunah.org/

The Western Massachusetts chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club AMC Berkshire is one of twelve regional chapters making up the Appalachian Mountain Club. On the webpage you can find an up - to - date schedule of events including many activities and trips, and information about the region’s leg of the Appalachian Trail. AMC Berkshire offers many education events and workshops such as: Wilderness first aid training, natural history classes, leadership training for trip le aders, and beginners backpacking

trips. These workshops provide the opportunity to not only participate in trips around the trails of Berkshire County, but to lead trips, learn outdoor skills and volunteer to maintain trails. The organization invites non m embers to try out a variety of activities before joining.

AMCBerkshire.Org Hopkins Memorial Forest The Hopkins Memorial Fore st (HMF) is a 2600 - acre reserve that expands across Massachusetts, New York and Vermont, and is managed by the Williams College Center for Environmental Studies (CES).

While HMF is maintained by the college to “facilitate and research and undergraduate tea ching activities while preserving and monitoring forest resources,� the reserve is still a wonderful outdoor recreational resource for the public. Activities include, hiking, jogging, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Hopkins Forest also welcomes visit s by school groups of all ages. Throughout the year there are guided tours and informational workshops, festivals and field days that are free and open to the public, including the Fall Festival, Maple Sugar Days, and Spring Field Day. Contact the HMF fore st manager to plan a visit. http://hmf.williams.edu/public/

Bash Bish Falls Bash Bish Falls is a waterfall in the Taconic Mountains of southwestern Massachusetts. It is the highest waterfall in the state. Ba sh Bish Falls State Park is located next to Taconic State Park and Mount Washington State Forest. The Falls can be seen from two access points, and the summit has a clear view across Massachusetts into New York State. Hiking trail access is off of the Sout h Taconic Trail. www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/western/bash.htm

Upper Housatonic African American Heritage Trail

The Upper Housatonic African American Heritage Trail is located in 29 Massach usetts and Connecticut towns. The trail celebrates African Americans in the region who gained national and international recognition for achievements and a continued legacy.

Some of the notable sites on the Upper Housatonic African American Heritage Trail include: Samuel Harrison‘s House located in Pittsfield. He was a chaplain in the 54th Massachusetts Regiment who protested unfair and discriminatory pay practices. The Col. Ashley House in Sheffield is where Elizabeth “Mum Bett” Freeman was enslaved. Thro ugh advocacy, she successfully sued for and won her freedom, a decision which helped lead to the abolition of slavery in Massachusetts. Also, the W.E.B. Du Bois homesite is located in Great Barrington. www.uhvafa mtrail.org/ Berkshire Community College Nature Trail The John Lambert Nature Trail at Berkshire Community College was created and is maintained by Environmental and Life Sciences Department students and faculty, and is open to the community to enjoy. Located behind the Ralph Hoffmann Environmental Center the nature trail rambles through open fields and woodlands. Fifteen numbered posts along the trail indicate points of natural significance. www.ber kshirecc.edu/NatureTrail

The Housatonic Environmental Literacy Program (H.E.L.P.)

The Housatonic Environmental Literacy Program is a collaborative project between Mass Audubon (MAS) and the Housatonic Valley Association (HVA). This progra m hopes to “establish a positive relationship between future river stewards and their Housatonic River watershed”. Students of the program are given the opportunity to build a relationship with the watershed and increase an appreciation of the river.

The HELP program offers a “multi - tiered educational program”. There are educational programs at the elementary, middle and high school levels, and also free public canoeing programs. Additionally, MAS and HVA have developed a Housatonic River Curriculum that w ill be made available to educators in the watershed area in both a printed form as well as online. www.massaudubon.org/HELP/index.php Berkshire Outdoor Center The Berkshire Outdoor Center, located in Becket, operates year - round programs for schools, colleges, youth groups, adult groups, and families. The Center combines adventure leadership programs with environmental education and recreational activities. Berkshire Outdoor Center's Outdoor Educatio n programs are an excellent resource for schools in the Berkshires, providing hands - on opportunities to reinforce lessons learned in the classroom; and developing an understanding of others, an appreciation for the environment, and improved self - esteem and self confidence. www.bccymca.org/519

Berkshire Botanical Garden

Berkshire Botanical Garden is a not - for - profit, membership - supported educational organization encompassing 15 acres of cultivated land in Stockbridge. Its mission is to “fulfill the community’s need for information, education and inspiration concerning the art and science of gardening and the preservation and improvement of our local environment.” The public display gardens are open May t hrough mid - October. The Garden collections emphasize plants that are indigenous to or thrive in the Berkshires; more than 3,000 species and varieties are represented.

Classes, workshops, lectures and special events are offered year - round.

The garden also o ffers a broad variety of educational programs to school children from the surrounding area. www.berkshirebotanical.org/

The Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation The Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation is a non - profit member supported land trust working with the community to preserve and protect the rural New England character and unique landscapes of Williamstown. Outdoor recreational opportunities include hikes and nature programming. The educational pro grams are mainly designed for children, and many are conducted in conjunction with local schools to supplement their classroom offerings. However, programs and events are open to the public and generally without charge. An excellent way to help is to volun teer, which is a great way to learn and have fun at the same time. www.wrlf.org/

Energy and Environment Wind The Berkshires offers numerous facilities utilizing green and efficient energy and renewable sources. EOS Ventures is primarily a wind and solar power company that operates most of their projects throughout the northeast. As of June 11, 2012, there are two completed wind products in Berkshire County.

The first is the wind turbine “Zephyr� located at Jimi ny Peak in Hancock, which provides the mountain resort with 4,600,000 kilowatt hours per year. Jiminy uses half of the generated power, and the remaining portion is sold back to the grid.

Some interesting FAQs and information on how to take a tour of Zephy r can be found at: www.jiminypeak.com/wind - turbine - faq A second Berkshire wind project was finalized on May 28, 2011 and is appropriately named the Berkshire Wind

Project. It boasts 10 wind turbi nes located on top of the former Brodie Mountain, also in Hancock, which produce a combined output large enough to power 6,000 homes and eliminate the use of 1.7million barrels of oil. More information can be found by visiting http://www.berkshirewindcoop.org/Faqs.html A third wind project, operated by Williams Stone Inc. in East Otis, is a smaller 600 - kW project, which became operational in July 2009.

Other pending wind projects in Berkshire Count y include Hoosac Wind Energy Project which includes the town of Florida and neighboring town of Monroe, and Minuteman Wind in Savoy.

Solar Solar energy is a very hot topic in the Berkshires and EOS has also orchestrated a large project known as the Berk shire Bundle. The Bundle combined projects at Berkshire South Regional Community Center, Bedard Brothers, Hancock Shaker Village, Quality Printing and the town of West Stockbridge. By bundling all these small projects into a single, larger project the part icipants were able to take advantage of government incentives that saved approximately $5 million dollars through grant money.

To read more about the project and how the funds were saved, visit www.eos - ventures.com/?nav_id=26

Recently, Pittsfield and Lenox were selected by a pair of state agencies to participate in the Solarize Mass project. Solarize Massachusetts (Solarize Mass) is a program that encourages the adoption of small - scale solar pho tovoltaic use by deploying a coordinated education, marketing and outreach effort, combined with a tiered pricing structure that provides increased savings as more people in the community go solar.

The community has a designated local solar coach, who wi ll work with volunteers, MassCEC, and the installer to publicize the program and help answer resident questions. The Solarize Massachusetts program will have a “Shining Some Light on Solar” public education event on June 23, 2012 from 2 - 4 p.m., at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 72 West Mountain Road, Lenox. There, residents can learn about the Solarize Massachusetts program and the basics of solar PV. Call (413) 637 - 5500, Ext. 1217 or (413) 6370320 for event details. More at www.solarizemass.com

Cogeneration Cogeneration is the concept of using the waste from a turbine powered system to generate electricity, is becoming more and well known and utilized.

Jiminy Peak has introduced a cogeneration system in their County Inn. The system is powered by natural gas that heats and provides water to the core of the inn including John Harvard’s Restaurant. The unit also provides hot water to the heated pool and hot tub. The “waste” is captured from the turbine which houses a generator and generates approximately 400,000 kWh per year, reducing power being used from the grid.

The Pittsfield Generating Plant is also 173 megawatt cogeneration facility. It is fueled by natural gas and has the ability to meet the elec trical needs of 165,000 homes. This giant facility enables Pittsfield to consume fuel 50% more efficiently than your typical fossil fueled power plants. By providing cleaner energy to local companies and households the Pittsfield Generating Plant has been able to reduce 600 tons of sulfur dioxide emissions annually. For more information about cogeneration systems please visit the EOS Venture FAQ website EOS Cogeneration FAQ's

Another great resource for learning more about renewable energy is The Center for EcoTechnology (CET), a non - profit organization formed in 1976.

Today, its mission is "to research, develop, demonstrate and promote those technologies which have the least disruptive impact on the natural ecology of the Earth."

From offices in Pittsfield, Northampton and Springfield, CET finds sustainable solutions to complex issues in order to benefit our environment, health, economy, and community.

CET web links : Renewable Energy access for residents, businesses, farms and organizations Public education , forums and technology tours New England GreenStart and Energy efficiency for residents and businesses Service for National Grid and Berkshire Gas companies Small farm energy efficiency assistance EnergyStar Homes速 Construction ReStore Home Improvement Center Recycling Services for Berkshire businesses Pesticide Reduction Composting for schools and restaurants Household hazardous waste collections Earth Stewards - Pittsfield After School Program Ber kshire - Hudson Junior Solar Sprint Teacher training sessions and classroom presentations

Government

This section focuses on increasing awareness of access to public land and bodie s of water for various activities including camping, boating, hiking and universal access needs. It highlights points of interest throughout the county and gives websites where you can find further information. Licensing requirements for boats, off road ve hicles and snowmobiles are also listed. Public transportation is an option to access many outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the Berkshires.

Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation maintains 450,000 acres of publicly owned parks, forests, bodies of water and recreation spaces. The Division of State Parks and Recreation manages almost 300,000 acres of state parks, state forests, trails and other natural resources outsid e of the Boston area.

Visit MA Dept of Conservation & Recreation . You can use the DCR website to search for information by location, park name or activity.

Camping You can explore camping options by location or am enities. Campers can also make site reservations online.

Entrance to Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground

In the Berkshires, the following DCR properties offer camping: Beartown State Fore st Clarksburg State Park Mt. Greylock State Reservation October Mou ntain State Forest Pittsfield State Forest Savoy Mountain State Forest Tolland State Forest Windsor State Forest (currently closed)

DCR Trails You can find information about trails in Massachusetts State Forests and Parks. This includes trails for hi king, walking, horseback riding, biking, skiing, snowmobiling and off - road vehicles.

Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is located in Lanesborough, Cheshire and Adams. The 11.2 - mile paved trail runs p arallel to Route 8.

Parking lots and restrooms are available.

Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, Farnams Causeway, Cheshire

Universal Access DCR offers a Universal Access Program. This program is designed to enable visitors with disabilities to access recrea tional opportunities. The program offers information about accessible trails, DCR park interpreters, special events and adaptive recreational equipment.

Accessible fishing at Cheshire Lake, Farnam’s Causeway, Cheshire

DCR Property Highlights Mt. Greylock State Reservation is located in Lanesborough, Adams, Williamstown, North Adams. Mount Greylock is the tallest mountain in Massachusetts and hosts a large recreation area for hiking, camping , snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

Trail maps are available online and at the Visitor Center located at 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA 01237 From the Visitors Center, visitors can drive to the summit and parking lots to trail heads along Rockwell Roa d.

Wahconah Falls State Park Take a short hike from the parking lot to a waterfall view.

Savoy Mountain State Forest – S avoy & Florida Savoy Mountain State Forest includes camping, trails, and Tannery Falls, the tallest waterfall in Massachusetts. Busby Trailhead is located in Florida

Natural B ridge State Park in North Adams offers a visitors center, walkways to view the natural stone bridge and the waterfall over the marble dam.

Balance Rock State Park – Lanesborough Balance Rock State Park, located within Pittsfield State Forest.

Windsor Lake – North Adams The area is maintained by the City of North Adams.

The site offers picnicking, swimming (lifeguards on dut y), boating, camping, playgrounds, hiking trails and fishing.

Appalachian Trail – County - wide The Appalachian Trail is maintained by a partnership of DCR, the National Park Service, the Appal achian Trail Conservancy and the Appalachian Mountain Club.

Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game Licensing Hunting and fishing licenses are available for purchase online at MA Dept Fish & Game W ater Access The Massachusetts Office of Fishing and Water Access maintains a list of public boat ramps and other entry points to bodies of water operated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or they city/town.

Becket - Center Pond Cheshire - Cheshire Lake Cheshire - Cheshire Lake (Farnams Causeway) Egremont - Prospect Lake Great Barrington - Housatonic River Hinsdale - Ashmere Lake Lee - Laurel Lake Lenox - Housatonic River Monterey - Benedict Pond Monterey - Lake Garfield New Marlborough - Thousand Acre Pond New Marlborough - York Lake North Adams - Hoosic River North Adams - Windsor Lake Otis - Big Pond Otis - Otis Reservoir Otis - Shaw Pond Pittsfield - Housatonic River Pittsfield - Onota Lake Pittsfield - Pontoosuc Lake Sandisfield - Upper Spectacle Pond Stockbridge - Housatonic River Stockbridge - Stockbridge Bowl Tyringham - Goose Pond Williamstown - Hoosic River Windsor - Windsor Pond

Boat, Recreation Vehicle, Snowmobile Registration

Permits are required for boats, off road vehicles and s nowmobiles. The Massachusetts Environmental Police operate the Boat, Recreation Vehicle and Snowmobile Registration Bureau.

New registrations are completed in person at a registration office. Renewals can be completed online.

Balance Rock State Forest, Lanesborough

HELPFUL BERKSHIRE RESOURCES FOR PUBLIC DES T INATIONS There are many websites that highlight public scenic destinations an d activities including trails, waterfalls, cycling, hiking and wildlife sanctuaries. Here are some: www.berkshirehiking.com/hikes/taconic_crest.html www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/western/pitt.htm www.bnrc.net/interactive - map/ www.newenglandwaterfalls.com www.cityofpittsfield.org/city_departments/parks_and_recreation/recreation _main.htm www.berkshirebikepath.com

www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Canoe_Meadows/i ndex.php www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Pleasant_Valley/i ndex.php Snowshoe Hike: www.massaudubon.org/catalog/listing.php?program_code=703 - AR10FA1 www.richmondreccommittee.org/ www.thetrustees.org/places - to - visit/berkshires/goose - pond.html www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/habitat/maps/wma/western_maps.htm www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/habitat/maps/ponds/pond_maps_wd. htm

Berkshire Regional Transit Authority Many recreational areas can be accessed via public transportation. BRTA buses are equipped with bike racks. Passengers can use the racks at no additional charge.

Healthcare & Wellness Benefit Individuals, Benefit Businesses The rising cost of health care is a financial concern to all employers. For some companies it can ofte n times mean the make or break factor of remaining in business, including companies in Berkshire County.

Addressing this issue continues to be a major issue for business owners and employees and a major public policy priority. Employer - sponsored health cov erage for family premiums have increased and led to increasing

cost burdens on employers and workers. This impact can be reduced over time as employers and employees work together in developing programs to promote healthier living.

Employers may utilize v arious strategies to address the major concern of the rising cost of health insurance. Moving to plans with higher deductibles for example may help reduce costs for the employer but can result in higher costs for employees. Alternative strategies that prov ide mutual benefit for employers and employees often focus on developing a healthier lifestyle and culture for all. Financial incentives reward participating employees. For example, an employer may pay for all or a portion of the increased deductible cost is the employee participates in a healthy lifestyle, has an annual physical and obtains all age appropriate tests and screenings.

Developing healthier lifestyles can decrease the cost of employee health & safety plans by: • Reducing Worker’s Compensation premiums & claims • Reducing Health insurance premiums & experience Businesses and their employees derive mutual benefit from an emphasis on healthier lifestyles when you consider: • • • •

Healthy employees = a reduction in insurance claims Fewer medical claims = lower employer premiums Lower premiums = greater profitability Greater profitability = sustainability & growth

Having a population in Berkshire County that is motivated by health and fitness is attractive to potential new businesses.

Employee Wellness I nitiatives Workplace wellness initiatives can be developed by employers, employees or, ideally, employers and employees working together. Common elements of wellness programs include:

• Wellness expos • Wellness Screenings • Mental health/well - being session wi th Employee Assistance Program coordinator • Flu Shots • Smoke - free workplaces • Postings on flu, tick and sun exposure • Workshops: back safety, stretching, Healthy Choices, stress, smoking cessation, 3rd shift survival, nutrition, etc.

Successful initiatives in corporate local recreational areas/activities such as the following: • Activities : Zumba, yoga, kickboxing, hiking, biking, WeightWatchers , Biggest Loser Competition, etc.

• Community programs : Walk with Me in the Berkshires , National Health & Fitness Day, Re lay for Life , local road races (running, walking or biking)

Tips for Establishing Wellness Initiatives Tips for Employers

Tips for Employees

Establish goals and desires for the program both in the context of cost savings and cost avoidance achieved through fewer instances of medical need.

Establish personal goals and desires that leverage advantages provided by the employer plan.

Determine hurdles to overcome, particularly in communicating with employees. Consider when, what, and how to communicat e with employees, and stress dialogue over one - way communications.

Consider true obstacles to improving your lifestyle and list those that you can address; Have a plan and allow yourself small steps.

Develop and share a company - wide plan that rewards gro up action.

Develop and share a personal plan consistent with your own goals and

note where rewards can be achieved by working within your employer’s plan.

Record company - wide progress; create conditions in which employees feel safe and comfortable contri buting their personal progress.

Record your personal progress, and be willing to share progress with your employer to underscore both need for and success of the initiative.

Create time in employee schedules to pursue wellness initiative activities.

Acc ept time in your work schedule to pursue wellness initiative activities.

Create a supportive environment by designing programs that encourage interaction not just among employees but with employees’ family and friends. Extend selected benefits and incent ives to others important in the employee’s life.

Involve family and friends in wellness initiative activities, your goals, and your progress.

Create a program with variety – something for all age levels and abilities. Learn from setbacks such as low enro llment, low turnout, or decreasing participation over time, and adjust.

Participate in a variety of activities associated with the initiative and provide constructive feedback to your employer as to the effectiveness of each.

Reward progress (but avoid c omparisons among employees).

Reward yourself (but avoid comparisons to other participants).

Typical Employee Pharmacy Drivers Conditions for top prescriptions : •Asthma & allergies •Depression, anxiety

•Diabetes •High cholesterol •High blood pressure • Pain relief •Acid reflux Targeted Interventions Must Focus on the Risk Factors Weight reduction will have an impact on: •Back and joints •Blood pressure and cholesterol •Diabetes risk •Sleep apnea •Mental health

Beyond the gym – Getting involved in lo cal recreation As seen already in this publication, Berkshire County offers a wide range of nature and recreational locations for residents and visitors alike to enjoy. Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast, a weekend recreationalist or just want to l eisurely enjoy nature’s beauty, there are plenty of year - round activities.

Taking advantage of the local recreation can have a positive impact on an individual's health and wellbeing. Physical activities such as hiking, running, skiing or snowshoeing are excellent ways to promote or enhance a healthy lifestyle and improve physical fitness. Other activities such as a canoe trip, outdoor yoga classes or a stroll through a botanical garden are ways to relax, unwind and reduce stress levels.

In addition to improving individual health and wellness, participating in various recreational activities can have a positive economic benefit to local businesses .

Check out this link for information on the number of calories burned during various recreational activiti es along with other nutrition and fitness information: http :// www . nutristrategy . com / index . htm

Outdoor Recreational Opportunities

Mount Greylock www . mass . gov / dcr / parks / mtGreylock At 3,491 feet, Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts. Wild and rugged yet intimate and accessible, Mount Greylock rewards the visitor expl oring this special place of scenic and natural beauty. Whether you are an outdoor adventurist, a photographer, a nature lover or just want to enjoy a tranquil picnic with stunning views, a variety of year - round recreational activity awaits.

How to get her e: www . mass . gov / dcr / parks / mtGreylock / directions . htm Access : Entrance to the park is free; there is a $2 parking fee for the summit parking lot only. Parking is free for ParksPass holders, vehicles with Handicapped, disabled veteran plates/placard, and seniors 62 and above with the Massachusetts Senior Pass.

What to do there : Whether you delight in the challenge of a strenuous h ike to the summit or prefer to sit quietly and watch the sunset, Mount

Greylock offers more than 70 miles of designated trails, including an 11.5 mile section of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail . Visit Maps and Brochures to view trail maps, trail mileages and suggested hikes.

A primitive Camping experience is available for backpackers at either the Mount Greylock Campground or one of the five remote trailside backpacker shelters; the campground is only accessible by foot, as are the backpa cker shelters.

• Reservations are required from May 27 to October 10 through ReserveAmerica: 1 - 877 - 422 - 6762. Off - season camping is available on a first - come, first - serve basis; no fee required, donations accepted, registration with park staf f is recommended: 413 - 499 4262.

• Backpacker Shelters : Five lean - to shelters are available year round, first - come, first - served, no fee required: Deer Hill, Wilbur’s Clearing, Bellows Pipe, Peck’s Brook and Mark Noepel. Limit up to 12 person group at each s helter site. Leave No Trace outdoor ethics are strongly encouraged. Visit camping for more specific information .

For safety it is recommended that backpackers call the Visitor Center: 413 - 499 - 4262 to notify park staff. Please provide a contact name, telephone number (cell phone if available ), names of additional hikers, planned camping locations and dates, overnight parking site and vehicle description with state and license plate number.

For naturalists the mountain is a popular destination for bird watching, butterflies and wildflowers. H unting is permitted in season. In winter, trails are available for snowmobiling , snowshoeing and back - country skiing.

Nearby, Greylock Glen features challenging trails up the steep eastern side of the mountain. Please note at Greylock Glen : Work on Gould Road will be limited access during weekdays, through summer 2012. Park at the intersection of Thiel and Gould R oads. ●

Pets are permitted. Must be on a 10 - foot maximum leash and attended at all times. Must have proof of current Rabies vaccine.

Please be courteous and clean up after your pet.

Hunting is permit ted in season. Hikers are recommended to wear blaze orange. No hunting or firearms are permitted within the War Memorial Park, a 0.75 mile radius from the War Memorial Tower. ● Winter Recreation opportunities include snowshoeing, back - country skiing (un - groo med trails), dog sledding and off - season backpacking . Visit Maps an d Brochures page to view the Winter Use Trail Map and trail designations. Click here for Winter Safety Tips . ●

Winter backpacking campers should be prepared for significant snow and/or weather conditi ons, as well as strenuous hiking. This is not a novice camping experience. For more information on winter trail conditions, or to register for off - season backpack camping, call the Visitor Center 413 - 499 - 4262.

●

Snowmobiling is permitted during winter on the auto roads and designated trails within the park under appropriate conditions: 4 inch minimum hard - packed snow base. Snowmobiling is permitted after sunset. Parking for snowmobiling is availa ble at the Visitor Center in Lanesborough, Notch Road Gate in North Adams and in Greylock Glen at the end of West Mountain Road in Adams. Please see winter use map for trail locations. Call the park Visitor Center 413 - 499 - 4262 for updates, or visit the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts websi te.

Other suggestions: For outdoor endurance try the Mt. Greylock Challenge : http :// roadbikingmassachusetts . com / featured - ride - mount - greylock challenge / For a scenic fall activity try the Mt. Greylock Ramble , Held each Columbus Day the tradition began in 1967 when the Chamber of Commerce decided to dedicate a day of appreciation to the mountain.

Since then, the an nual hike to the summit has attracted thousands of travelers.

Bascom Lodge atop Greylock offers lunch and dinner during the main season.

Reservations for June through October 2012 are being accepted for lodging, dinner, weddings, parties, etc.

Call: 413 - 743 - 1591 or email: mail@bascomlodge.net

Jiminy Peak www . jiminypeak . com

Jiminy Peak is a mid - sized ski resort in Hancock, in the Taconic Mountains. The peak of Jiminy Peak, which includes the Hendricks Summit Lodge, is located in Lanesborough. It offers year - round outdoor action, from skiing and snowboardi ng to a summertime Mountain Adventure Park.

How to get here : www . jiminypeak . com / directions What to do there: During the winter skiers enjoy 45 trails on 170 acres, serviced by 9 lifts www . jiminypeak . com / mountain - information , while snowboarders hone their skills on three terrain parks (Coyote Ridge, Alex's Park and Grometville) www . jiminypeak . com / terrain - parks .

Children's learn to ski and snowboard lessons are also available.

In the summer additional activities are offered at Mountain A dventure Park www . jiminypeak . com / mountain - adventure - park , such as an alpine super slide, mountain coaster, rock climbing wall, giant swing and the Euro - bungy trampoline. Hiking and mountain biking are also available.

New activities for 2012 are the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride and Segway Tours . The Aerial Adventure Park www . jiminypeak . com / aerial adventure - park is a challenge course up in the trees consisting of 6 individual elevated courses for varying ability levels consisting of over 70 elements that provide both physical and mental challenges. Elements include rope bridges , ladders, cargo nets, zip lines and more. All courses are self guided and every person is snapped into a guide line Courses range from 15 - 50 feet in the air.

Cranwell Resort www . cranwell . com / resort

Centrally located in the scenic Berkshires, this Lenox resort offers something for everyone during every season. Improve your heal th through a round of golf or an invigorating workout or enhance your wellness with a day of relaxing spa treatments.

How to get here : www . cranwell . com / maps - directions

What to do : Renowned for its outstanding natural beauty, Cranwell Resort’s historic 18 - hole Mass achusetts golf course combines spectacular views with challenging golf. The golf course is open to the public.

Membership is also available, as well as a pro shop and instruction on the driving range, putting greens and other features.

The Spa at Cranwell offers more than 50 services ranging from soothing massages and detoxifying wraps to rejuvenating skin and body treatments. Decorated in earth tones, the Spa at Cranwell creates a comforting environment where guests don terry cloth robes and slippers to e njoy the specially designed saunas, steam rooms and spacious whirlpool therapeutic baths. Before or after receiving a treatment, guests may relax in a comfortable lounge complete with a refreshment bar and fireplace.

The Fitness Center hosts an array of st ate - of - the - art equipment and specialty classes, including yoga to promote strength, end urance, flexibility and balance.

Kennedy Park www . townoflenox . com / public _ documents / lenoxma _ parkland / kennedy

How to get here: Parking is available at the Church on the Hill except during Sun day services and weddings. Parking is also available at the West Dugway Road entrance. Additional parking is located at the Department of Public Works, 275 Main St., in Lenox.

What to do: Kennedy Park in Lenox, is one of the best places to run on trails in Berkshire County. It is a multi - use area that is town - owned and maintained with 31 trails of hardwood forest, old carriage roads and

nearly 15 miles of groomed trails, making it an ideal locale for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, picnics, and c ross - country skiing.

Four - wheelers are not allowed. Trails are pretty smooth and not very rocky. Volunteers do a great job maintaining water bars and keeping the trails in very good shape. There are several more challenging single track trails that aren't on the map which are fantastic for mountain biking.

Hours: Park is open sunrise to sunset Regulations: No motorized vehicles No Hunting or trapping No Alcohol No Fires No tree cutting without permission Prior permission is needed for events held in t he park. Please contact any member of the Kennedy Park Committee at the Town Hall.

Stockbridge Bowl

www . thesba . org /

How to get here: Stockbridge Bowl has a boat ramp and parking lot off of Route 183 in Stockbrige.

What to do: Stockbridge Bowl comprises 372 acres of water. Throughout the year, the lake is extensively used for sculling, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, waterskiing, power boating and fishing. Each September, during the annual Josh Billings Runaground, a team triathlon event, the middle leg of the race requires canoers and kayakers to navigate one and three - quarters times around the perimeter of the lake.

On the west shore is a public boat ramp. Swimming at the ramp area is forbidden.

Toward the south end of the lake there is a piece of land juttin g out into the lake. This is known simply as The Island. It is about two acres of land that is owned by the Stockbridge Bowl Association. The island is one of the nesting grounds for the Canada geese. It also attracts blue herons, green herons, osprey as w ell as many ducks, making it a great stop for bird watching.

Kripalu Center for Health & Yoga http :// kripalu . org

How to get there : http :// kripalu . org / guest _ information /17 What to do : Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health (kri - PAH - loo) is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to promoting the art and sci ence of yoga to produce thriving and health in individuals and society. Programs at Kripalu are led by many of the world’s most accomplished teachers in

yoga, self - discovery, and holistic health and are designed to provide people with tools they can apply in their daily lives Program topics include wellness, Ayurveda, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, relationships, meditation, spiritual practice, professional training, and much more. Yoga programs are offered for people at all levels, feature all yoga traditions and styles, and include therapeutic yoga, yogic anatomy, and trainings for teachers.

Many Kripalu programs offer continuing education credits for professionals in fields such as social work, counseling, nursing, and massage and bodywork.This ce nter also offers outdoor fitness programs – from kayaking to horseback riding – as well as martial arts practice, golf and relaxation services such as massage therapy and meditation.

Eating Well Guide A sample listing of locally - sourced food vendors Nor th County Stores Wild Oates Coop Williamstown, 413 - 458 - 8060, www . wildoats . coop / Farms Cricket Creek Farm Williamstown, 413 - 458 - 5888, www . cricketcreekfarm . com /? page = home Central Berkshire Stores Guido’s Fresh Marketplace Pittsfield, 413 - 442 - 9912; also in Great Barrington, 413 - 528 - 9255 www . guidosfreshmarketplace . com / Berkshire Organics Dalton, 413 - 442 - 0888, http://be rkshireorganics.com Farms Holiday Brook Farm Dalton, 413 - 684 - 0444, http :// holidaybrookfarm . com / South County Stores Berkshire Blue Great Barrington, 413 - 842 - 5128, http :// berkshireblue . com / index . php Farms Taft Farms Great Barrington, 413 - 528 - 1515, www . taftfarms . com /

General Food Resource Site s: Organic Information Massachusetts: http :// enterprisefarmcsa . com / Recipes and resources: http://berkshiregrown.org Cooking classes: http :// kushiinstitute . org / index . html

Berkshire County Leadership Who’s Who in the Berkshires to advo cate for outdoor recreation initiatives *Congressman John W. Olver (*retiring, a race will be held this year for a successor) Congressman John Olver District Office 78 Center St. Pittsfield, MA 01201 Phone 413 - 442 - 0946 Website: www.olver.house.gov Cong ressman John W. Olver has represented the 1st Congressional District – spanning Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester and Middlesex Counties – since June 1991.

Olver's public service career began in 1969 in the Massachusetts State House rep resenting a section of Hampshire County. Beginning in 1973, he served 18 years in the Massachusetts State Senate representing portions of Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden, and Berkshire Counties. On June 25, 1991, Olver was sworn in to the U.S. House of Repres entatives to complete the term of the late Rep. Silvio O. Conte.

Prior to his tenure in the Massachusetts State House, Olver was a chemistry professor at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Olver earned his B.A. from Rensselaer Polytechnic Instit ute, his M.A. from Tufts University, and his Ph.D. in chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Olver was born on September 3, 1936, in Honesdale,

Pennsylvania, where he grew up on a farm with his brother and sister.

Olver and his wife Rose , a psychology and women's and gender studies professor at Amherst College, have lived in Amherst since 1963. They have one daughter, Martha.

State Senator Benjamin Downing Benjamin Downing State House Room 413 F Boston, MA 02133 Phone: 617 - 722 - 1625 Benjamin.downing@masenate.gov Berkshire County is represented in the state senate by one senator who also represents portions of Franklin and Hampshire Counties.

State Representatives Ber kshire County has 4 districts represented in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, each with its own representative: First Berkshire – Galianne Cariddi State House Room 130 Boston, MA 02133 Phone: 617 - 722 - 2130 Email: Gailanne.Cariddi@mahouse.gov Consisting of the towns of Adams, Clarksburg, Florida, North Adams, Savoy and Williamstown, all in the county of Berkshire; and the towns of Charlemont, Hawley, Heath, Monroe and Rowe, all in the county o f Franklin. Gailanne Cariddi (D ) is the current Representative.

Second Berkshire – Paul Mark State House Room 473F Boston, MA 02133 Phone: 617 - 722 - 2210 Email: Paul.Mark @mahouse.gov Consisting of the tow ns of Becket, Cheshire, Dalton, Hancock, Hinsdale, Lanesborough, New Ashford, Peru, Richmond, Washington and Windsor, and precinct B of ward 1, of the city of Pittsfield, all in the county of Berkshire; the towns of Ashfield, Bernardston, Buckland, Colrain , Leyden, Northfield and Shelburne, all in the county of Franklin; and the towns of Cummington, Middlefield and Plainfield, all in the county of Hampshire. Paul Mark (D) is the current Representative.

Third Berkshire – Tricia Farley - Bouvier State House R oom 156 Boston, MA 02133 Phone: 617 - 722 - 2240 Email: Tricia.Farley - Bouvier@mahouse.gov Consisting of precinct A of ward 1, all precincts of wards 2, 3, 4, precinct A of ward 5, and all precincts of war ds 6 and 7, of the city of Pittsfield, in the county of Berkshire.

Christopher N. Speranzo (D), was the Representative, but has left for another position. A special election to fill his unexpired term has Tricia Farley - Bouvier (D) as the current representa tive.

Fourth Berkshire – William Smitty Pignatelli State House Room 448 Boston, MA 02133 Phone: 617 - 722 - 2582 Email: Rep.Smitty@mahouse.gov Consisting of the towns of Alford, Egremont, Great Barrington, Lee, Lenox, Monterey, Mount Washington, New Marlborough, Otis, precinct 5B of the city of Pittsfield, the towns of Sandisfield, Sheffield, Stockbridge, Tyringham and West Stockbridge, all in the county of Berkshire; and the towns of Blandford, Chester and Toll and, all in the county of Hampden.

William Smitty Pignatelli (D), is the current Representative.

Pittsfield Mayor Daniel Bianchi Dan Bianchi was elected as mayor of Pittsfield in January 2012, succeeding James Ruberto who had held the position since 200 4. Dan is a lifelong resident of Pittsfield, and provides a vast amount of experience with growing small businesses as well as energy conservation and resource consumption. The mayor has a strong focus on creating a strong business development strategy in the Berkshires to create new revenue and jobs for local businesses, reducing crime and drug abuse, continuing to improve our local school

systems, and drive Berkshire county towards green energy consumption and state and federal initiatives.

Before takin g his seat as mayor, Dan served as Pittsfield’s Director of Administration and Finance, then moved on to five years as City Councilor of Ward 6.

Dan is a graduate of Pittsfield High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in Business and Finance at the Unive rsity of Massachusetts at Amherst. He currently resides in Pittsfield with his wife Theresa and three children, Benjamin, Matthew and Madeline.

To reach Mayor Bianchi, contact him at: Daniel L. Bianchi, Mayor City Hall, Mayor’s Office (413) 499 - 9321 No rth Adams Mayor Richard Alcombright Richard (Dick) J. Alcombright is the 25th Mayor of the City of North Adams. Dick attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School and graduated from McCann Technical High School. He studied accounting and received a diploma fro m Southern Vermont College. He also is a graduate of the National Association of Mutual Savings Banks School of Banking at Fairfield University. Dick, over a 36 year career rose to the rank of Senior Vice President of Retail Banking for Hoosac Bank and Wil liamstown Savings Bank. Dick served for 19 years on the McCann School Committee and was appointed to the City Council in 2000. His service to The McCann Technical School Committee

included: Vice Chairman, 9 years - Budget Committee, 16 years, 11 years as C hairman - Policy Committee, Chairman - Curriculum Committee - Negotiations Committee - and Superintendent Search Committee, Chairman. Mayor Alcombright resides in North Adams on Williams Street with wife Michelle. They have four children, Casey, Paul, Matt and Ashley.

To reach Mayor Alcombright, contact him at: Dick Alcombright, Mayor City of North Adams 10 Main Street North Adams, MA 01247 Phone: 413 - 662 - 3000

Funding Berkshire County gets much of its support from grants and state funding. Through Janua ry in fiscal 2012, Berkshire County had already received over $650,000 in grants for local projects.

Recently, Senator Benjamin Downing announced a release of $95,000 to fund the creative economy in the Berkshires. The grants come through MCC’s Adams Arts Program for the Creative Economy, the oldest and most far - reaching program of its kind in the nation.

Some of the locally funded programs include: City of Pittsfield - $40,000 Funding will a ssist in the improvement of economic activity in Pittsfield through the expansion of marketing and branding efforts to position Pittsfield as the cultural center of the Berkshires. Program objectives also include networking and professional development opp ortunities for artists and creative workers.

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts - $40,000 Funding will help provide resources, training, and support to attract a creative class of people to th e Berkshires. An emphasis will be placed on creating work opportunities for young adults currently living in the Berkshires and supporting the existing class of artists and arts organizations in the county.

Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (Mass M oCA) - $15,000 Funding will be used to grow commercial artistic enterprises in the Berkshires by providing individual development accounts, financial education, and technical and business assistance to low - to moderate - income artists.

http://berkshirecreative.org/95k - in - state - funding - to - boost - creative economy - state - program - invests - in - innovative - projects - in - berkshire cou nty/

Local Government There is not an agency or division of government that oversees all recreational sites and venues in Berkshire County. Different agencies or townships are responsible for the parks and areas within their jurisdiction. Without a cen tralized administrative hub, staffing and funding levels vary creating competition for grants, and non - standardized maintenance for the various areas.

Nevertheless, municipalities understand the role recreation plays in quality of life. Despite challengin g budgets and low staffing levels, recent renovations encompassed not only major tourist attractions, but also improved smaller parks in different towns and neighborhoods throughout Berkshire County. Residential areas that offer safe, updated, and well - mai ntained recreational areas are likely to attract new permanent residents, which affects the economy of the region significantly in a number of different ways. A few examples of parks and other recreational areas maintained by towns are: Lenox Beach (Lenox) , Lee Beach (Lee), The Common (Pittsfield), Kennedy Park (Lenox), Western Gateway Heritage Park (North Adams) among many others.

In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, funding, maintenance, and administration of parks and other recreational areas are handl ed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR, www.mass.gov/dcr/ ) who subsequently subdivides its efforts within the multiple counties for the sites covered by its jurisdiction. State Forests and State P arks are funded, maintained, and administered by the DCR. Some examples of State Forests are: Beartown (Monterey), Pittsfield, Mount Washington, October Mountain (Lee), and Windsor. Examples of State Parks are: Bash Bish Falls, Clarksburg, Wahconah Falls, and Mount Greylock State Reservation.

It is important to mention that not all green areas, forests, parks, and other recreational sites in Berkshire County are maintained by the DCR.

Overall Administration In addition to town and state governments, ther e are multiple non profit institutions responsible for different sites. Though part of Berkshire County, and subsequently located in a given town, the maintenance, administration, and funding may be handled by such non - profits. Please see below examples of well - known recreational sites, and their respective affiliations: Site Appalachian Trail Berkshire

Agency

Website

Appalachian Mountain Club http://amcberkshire.org/at

Becket Historic Quarry Becket L and Trust and Forest

http://www.becketlandtrus t.org/

Berkshire Botanical Garden

Non - Profit/Membership Supported

http://www.berkshirebotan ical.org

Canoe Meadows Wildlife S anctuary

Mass Audubon

http://www.massaudubon. org

Goose Pond

The Trustees of Reservation

http://www.thetrustees.or g/

Monument Mountain

The Trustees of Reservation

http://www.thetrustees.or g/

Notchview Reservation

The Trustees of Reservation

http://www.thetrustees.or g/

Pleasant Valley Wildlife

Mass Audubon

http://www.massaudubon. org

Tyringham Cobble

The Trustees of Reservation

http://www.thetrustees.or g/

Collaboration - Towns/Cities, State, and Non - Profits Collaboration involving the various jurisdic tions does not occur in a centralized manner. In other words, there is not one institution or committee facilitating the different (or overlapping) efforts of the towns, DCR, and non - profits. With a shrinking pool of dollars, each recreational site has lim ited resources – especially staff and equipment – to perform the required maintenance. Nevertheless, dedicated employees and members of the community ensure that some of Berkshire County's most famous postcards continue to be just that. Moreover, Berkshire County offer some of the best outdoor recreation options in the country (per square foot), despite the limited resources and struggles for funding.

Local government and non - profits collaborate through partnerships in local opportunities and issues on a c ase - by - case basis through participation in town meetings, forums and workshops, newsletters, and volunteering efforts. Community involvement from local residents is often the facilitating power or cohesive effort involving all parties. This type of collabo ration is not necessarily geared toward maintenance, but more so concerning environmental issues.

There are many steps being taken toward collaborative efforts, such as the Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT, www.thebeatnews.org/ ), who keeps nearly everyone who is interested informed about any and all environmental issues affecting Berkshire County. BEAT works with both individual and organizational partners in order to spread the information, gain support , and accomplish a given mission. With increased environmental awareness, and direct impact in the local economy as a result of recreational options in the Berkshires, increased community and institutional participation may result in new organizations with similar approach to BEAT's, only geared toward maintenance that prevent issues

Tourism and the Creative Economy The Berkshires is a valuable source of wonderful opportunities and activities, right in your own backyard. From hiking to exploring the local attractions that offer cultural guided tours, one could never run out of things to do. Most of these activities are free and provide wonderful memories for you when you take the time to stop, breathe and really enjoy this place we call Home.

Taconic Crest Trail

The Taconic Crest Trail is quite the tranquil hike with gorgeous views and a rare treat at the end of the hike, the Snowhole!

Although the trail officially begins in Pittsfield, you can start the trail at the northern end of the trail at Williams College Hopkins Memorial Forest. The northern point of this trail, near where Snowhole is located is at the end of Route 346 in Vermont.

A link for the map is located below. http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/trails/pi ttsfield.pdf

At the end of the hike on the Taconic Trail be sure to stop and see the SnowHole.

Even in the middle of August, if you are lucky, you will find icy snow at the base of the cave.

Snowhole

Where the Taconic Crest Trail enters Vermont and 2.75 miles from Petersburg Pass a short trail leads east to the Snow Hole.

A view from the inside looking up.

Berkshire Botanical Garden

5 West Stockbridge Road PO Box 826 Stockbridge, MA 01262

Phone: 413.298.3926 Email: info@berkshirebotanical.org Website: http://www.berkshirebotanical.org/ Display Gardens and Visitor Center Open 9 am – 5 pm daily May 1st to Columbus Day Administrative Office Open 9am – 4pm Monday through Friday, all year

The Berkshire Botanical Garden, formally Berkshire Garden Center, was started in 1934 and granted a non-profit corporate charter in 1936. The Garden, sits upon 15 acres of land with over 3,000 species that thrive in the Berkshires. It includes rock gardens, sculptures, vegetable gardens, chickens, a school house, some trails and several buildings that house a gift shop, lecture hall and greenhouses.

During my visit on May 19, 2012 there was a workshop, in the school house, where a group of guys were building a brick oven to make pizza for the day camp. It is a great place to go and enjoy your family, read a book, have a picnic and take in the scenery.

-Jess

Don’t forget to stop by the Berkshire Athenaeum and pick up a pass good for free admission for four adults.

Children 12 and under are always free.

Mount Greylock Adams, Ma Mount Greylock is the highest peak in Massachusetts at 3,941 feet in elevation.

Part of the Appalachian Trail runs through Mount Greylock. A trail marker is actually located near the summit to mark where it intercepts the trail on your way to the top.

++++++

Below is a link from DCR, which provides trail maps and camping information.

http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/mtGreylock/brochures.ht m

Thunderbolt Trail - Adams, MA

Mount Greylock’s Thunderbolt trail is an awesome experience that definitely makes you earn the view.

One of the most difficult hikes to the top it is also the quickest. This is truly one of the most picturesque and “good for the soul” journeys that you could take.

The Thunderbolt was a ski trail built by the CCC and in 1936 was the host for the US Eastern Alpine Ski Championships. A few hardcore, dedicated groups still utilize these trails for alpine skiing in the winter months.

Bartholomew’s Cobble 105 Weatogue Road Ashley Falls, Sheffield MA 01257 Phone - 413-329-8600 Email - bcobble@ttor.org Directions – From Rte 7 South in Sheffield: take a right onto Rt. 7A right onto Rannapo Rd; take another right onto Weatogue Rd to the entrance on the left.

Hours – Open daily sunrise to sunset.

This beautiful 329 acre reservation is a must see for outdoor recreation lovers! Since 1971, the cobble has enjoyed the National Natural Landmark status in recognition for its wide array of plant and animal species and also its diverse habitats.

There are over 700 species of plants and the natural history museum has a neat collection of mounted birds, a bobcat, butterflies, arrowheads, and Mohegan Indian artifacts. There are trails around the property that are suitable for any age. The trails outlined below are based on distances beginning from the visitor’s center.

Vista on Hurlburt’s Hill – ¾ mile To the Ashley House – ½ mile Ledges Trail loop – less than an ½ mile Bailey Trail and Spero Trail loop – 1 ¾ mile They also have guided specialty programs – check out their website bcobble@ttor.org for a complete listing. On Mother’s Day 2012 – they hosted a Wildflower Walk. It was a 2 hour leisurely adventure seeing many beautiful wildflowers and a stop at the second oldest Cottonwood Tree in Massachusetts that you can actually get inside! The kids really loved that one!

Mass Audubon Pleasant Valley Bird Sanctuary The Pleasant Valley Bird Sanctuary is truly a gem in the Berkshires. Not only does it offer a huge variety of bird types, but is also a breeding sanctuary for many species. There are seven miles of trails, canoe trips, houses a large beaver population, but also salamander migrations that are major events along West Mountain Road. It is also home to a 4.8 KW photovoltaic array. The Preserve offers several facilities: Restrooms, All Persons Trail, Barn, and Education Center.

472 West Mountain Road Lenox, MA 01240 413-637-0320 Hours of operation:

Nature Center: Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Sunday, and Monday holidays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday (end of June through Columbus Day), 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Contact sanctuary for more information berkshires@massaudubon.org.

Trails: Open on days the nature center is open, dawn to dusk.

The Sanctuary has offered a variety of camps since 1947. Here children can explore the 1,400 acres of forest, meadow, mountain, brook and beaver ponds. Check out their online program list for children of ALL ages at: http://www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Pleasant_Valley/catalog.php

As always, don’t forget to stop at the Berkshire Athenaeum and pick up free passes good for two adults and two children’s admission.

The Cheshire Cobbles The trail to get to the Cheshire Cobbles is actually part of the Appalachian Trail’s path through the Berkshires.

This amazing hike awards a beautiful view of Mount Greylock and the Hoosic River Valley.

Standing on top of the rock outcropping is an experience to remember.

http://www.appalachiantrail.org/hiking/find-a-hike/hikes---ma

The above link brings you to the Appalachian Trail website where you will find directions to the Cobbles.

A view from the Cobbles of Cheshire Lake.

Natural Bridge State Park

McCauley Road, off of Route 8 North Adams, MA Phone - 413-663-6392 http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/western/nbdg.htm Hours and directions are available from the above website.

You won’t want to miss this one of a kind experience right here in Berkshire County!

The highlight of this state park is a natural marble bridge, the only one of its kind in the United States. The bridge extends across a gorge 60 feet above ground. It was formed when flowing water and ice gradually eroded the many layers of rock covering the marble, at the rate of one foot every 2,500 years. Now, deep chasms are sculpted into the rock. Some of the walls of the chasms sport graffiti dating back to 1740.

Picnic tables and restrooms are available.

Workfor ce Development Building businesses, creating jobs in the local outd oor recreation industry

Here, four Berks hire County businesses share their experiences – both challenges and successes – in operating an outdoor recreation business in the Berkshires.

Business Overview - Mission Statement: o To help people discover the adventures of the underwater world in a fun and exciting way by providing unparalleled customer service and the best Snorkeling and Scuba Instruction around - Specialties include: o Snorkeling to Scuba Diving o Recreational to Tech Diving o Beginner to Dive Leader Number of Employees - Winter: 1 - Summer: 3 - Plus our dive leaders, which range from 4 to 15, depending on the year Financing - Started very small, using personal savings - let the business create its own capital to grow

Local Support - There was never an instance where support from local government was required

What was the first thing you did when you realized you wanted to open your own business?

- Accepted that we needed to star t small – found a small space to operate and offer lessons What advice would you give to an entrepreneur that would like to get in to the outdoor recreation business in the Berkshires?

-

Keep an eye on the community and the sector you serve - and respond t o its needs accordingly Stay involved in the community – host events and keep them involved with your business

Biggest Challenge?

- Learning the needs of our community and how to respond to them, because they’re always changing

How did you overcome this c hallenge?

- Began catering to our target audience, participating in Lake Cleanups and organized events relating to outdoor recreation - Began offering special events, such as underwater Christmas Tree decorating - Constantly looking for more ways to stay invol ved History In the early 1980’s Jerry and Jo Smith moved to Pittsfield, MA to attend to family affairs. Having been a partner at a successful outdoor recreation shop in Arizona, Jerry Smith, at the time, couldn’t imagine going back to work in any other f ield. Because underwater sports were his passion, he was determined to find a way to make this passion a viable career in the Berkshires.

Using all of his savings, Smith was able to rent a small shop on Melville Street in Pittsfield, out of which he offe red Snorkeling and Scuba instruction lessons, carrying a limited amount of rentable gear. With no marketing budget, Smith relied on a word - of - mouth campaign that quickly caught fire. Luckily, scuba was all the rage in the early 80’s and there wasn’t much c ompetition in the area. Before he knew it, sales representatives from scuba gear manufactures began offering more product and better service – and Smith became quite confident that the business was going to last.

About ten years after opening their Melvi lle Street location, a storefront on North Street became available and the building owner immediately approached Smith, offering a great space for a reasonable rent. Moving to this space allowed Smith to host many

more products on site. This changed the cl imate of the business, introducing a focus on sales, in addition to the already established focus on instruction and lessons.

Since that time, the business has remained open with a steady client - base, outlasting several storefronts on North Street and ma king it through a recession. Current store operator Laurie Smith, daughter of Jerry and Jo Smith, says that the key to running a successful business in the Berkshires is staying connected to the community and responding to its needs, something that Action Sports & Travel has done over the years.

Why is Berkshire County a great place to operate an outdoor recreation business?

- Outdoor recreation keeps people healthy – balances their minds, bodies, and souls.

- Berkshire County has so much to offer, from amazing lakes to stunning scenic trails. The opportunities are endless as long as you can get people to turn off technology and turn on a sense of adventure.

Business Overview - Oldest outdoor recreation store in Berkshire County - Specialties include: o Equipment Rentals o Equipment Sales o Gear and Supply Sales o Product Demos Number of Employees - 4 total, including Steve, the owner Financing - Did not need a business loan; ½ of the building was rented out at the start to help pay the mortgage Local Support - The business grew slowly, and it is not located right in the downtown, so permitting and other governmental support was not required

What was the first thing you did when you realized you wanted to open your own business?

- Berkshire Outfitters di d not start out as a business idea; both Steve and his wife had full - time jobs. It grew into a business out of a love for the outdoors.

What advice would you give to an entrepreneur that would like to get in to the outdoor recreation business in the Berks hires?

- Understand that it is hard. The success of this kind of business is often determined by the weather. As the County experienced just this year, sometimes winter does not arrive, thus leaving products on the shelves.

Biggest Challenge?

- Having to com pete with the “Big Box” stores, who are able to buy in volume and therefore offer products at lower prices - Advancing technology, i.e. amazon, e - bay, craigslist are another avenue of competition that did not exist even 5 years ago How did you overcome this challenge?

- Expertise and service that Big Box stores cannot match - Berkshire Outfitters’ staff are professionals who live their work; they participate in and absolutely love the outdoor recreation activities that they market in the store - Berkshire Outfitte rs has been able to maintain a loyal customer base - Specials and discounts on overstock items offered through the store’s website

History The oldest outdoor shop in Berkshire County, Berkshire Outfitters got its humble start out of owner Steve Blazej ewski’s parents’ basement in Adams in 1973. The idea did not start out as a way to make money in the retail business, but rather, so that Steve and his wife could get canoes at wholesale prices and enjoy the outdoors together without breaking the bank. To do this, they started selling canoes out of the basement. In the winter, Steve branched out and sold cross - country skis. The idea caught on, and business began to grow. In 1982, an opportunity for a brick - and - mortar expansion presented itself. A large stor efront on Route 8 in Adams became available; it had already been used for the sale and installation of camper trailers, so Steve took the leap and purchased the building.

The location could not have been more perfect, as it is situated on a large lot with the Appalachian Trail located directly behind the store.

It was not without trepidation however; it took 6 months before he would even hang a sign out front to advertise the business. In the beginning, ½ of the store was rented to a fly - fishing shop, in pa rt to help pay the mortgage on the building.

Since that time, Berkshire Outfitters has kept up with the changing needs and interests of its customers. Berkshire Outfitters regularly holds demonstrations of new products, from canoes to skis to stand up p addleboards. The store rents and sells equipment, clothing,

footwear, gear and everything in between for the outdoor enthusiast.

Berkshire Outfitters draws customers from all over, whether it is the Adams resident who has been coming to the shop for 15 yea rs, or a visitor to Mass MoCA who finds his way down to the shop to rent a bike or canoe.

Berkshire Outfitters is a family - owned business operating throughout the year. The dollars spent at Berkshire Outfitters stay in the community, more so than at la rge retailers. Despite the growth of large retailers, Berkshire Outfitters remains a popular destination for the outdoor enthusiast. It could be the shop dogs that greet customers. Or it could be the knowledge and expertise of the staff.

As Steve says, “yo u are only as good as your employees.� Whatever the secret, Berkshire Outfitters has a model that works.

Why is Berkshire County a great place to operate an outdoor recreation business?

- The County is not overdeveloped so there is a wealth of preserved open space and well - run state parks - Northern Berkshire County in particular has its own following of outdoor enthusiasts because of the many opportunities available, i.e. Mt. Greylock, Heritage Park, Rail Trail

148 North St | Pittsfield, MA | gardenma.com | 413.442.9088 | @thegarden413 Business Overview The Garden is a destination skateboard, BMX, shoe and clothing shop based in western Massachusetts. Started by two local die - hard skateboarder/snowboarders, the Garden has served the skating and riding community from its current location in downtown Pittsfield since 2001.

Specialties • • • • •

BMX Skateboard Snow Shoes Apparel

Workforce • Two co - owners Matt Murray and Bill Whittaker • Hire staff as needed with part - time and seasonal employees • Currently training a team of counselors for a Garden sponsored skate/BMX camp at the Pittsfield Skate Park in Summer 2012 Lesson for Local Entrepreneurs Bill and Matt say not to let fear of failure get in the way of doing what you love for a career. Just because other skate shops have come and gone doesn’t mean a shop run with passion and vision can’t survive.

Biggest Challenge Seasonality. Coming off winter 2010 - 2011, which had record snowfall, and a 20 - plus inch early season dump Fall 2012, there was tremendous anticipation for epic amounts of snow. Ski and snow gear are expensive items and the shop stocked up. Winter basically skipped the Berkshires later that year and the Garden was left with a lot of excess inventory. The merchandise was slowly liquidated at discount prices and the Garden struggled, but survived, the terribly warm and uneventful winter of 2011 - 2012.

“From Tanglewood, to Jiminy Peak, to the Garden, outdoor recreation based businesses need to be diversified and able to ride out the peaks and val leys of the Berkshire County weather cycle.

Without the ability to take some punches from Mother Nature, staying power isn't a reality,” said Murray.

Opportunities The opening of the Pittsfield Skate Park is big win for Pittsfield’s skate and BMX communi ties. Both Bill and Matt of the Garden offered their expertise to guide the project in the right direction. The most crucial decision was the park’s location. Tucking the park away in a corner of town limits accessibility and can lead to safety issues. Thr oughout the process, the Garden’s co owners were vocal advocates for the current location on East Street. The Pittsfield Skate Park’s obvious success has a lot to do with their community activism aimed at providing skaters and riders with a safe and highly accessible location.

In Summer 2012, the Garden will be offering a skate and BMX training program, called Camp Garden, at the Pittsfield Skate Park.

To staff - up for the new opportunity, the Garden is hiring and training a team of counselors. With the ind irect revenue created from the $149/camper tuition, counselor’s wages, and tax from increased product sales, the Pittsfield Skate Park is slowly beginning to create a modest return on investment for the City of Pittsfield.

Maintaining Brand Identity Scoo tering and rollerblading are business opportunities the Garden passed over. Rollerblading has come and gone, but scootering seems to be remaining popular most likely due to its relative ease.

While it’s tempting for business owners to lump scootering and r ollerblading with skateboarding and BMX, in the minds of insiders, there is no crossover what so ever. Safeguarding the Garden’s brand, even at the expense of a diversification opportunity, has solidified relationships with customers and increased brand eq uity.

Matt and Bill, both as lifetime skaters and boarders, live their work and personify the Garden brand. As savvy local business owners, they both know that alienating their niche market would be brand suicide.

Marketing Almost all the Garden’s marke ting outreach is done for free through social media. The shop is constantly promoting new products and events on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The shop website has a dynamic design, an active blog and extensive video galleries. The Garden also sponsors local skaters and riders to help promote the shop on the grassroots level.

Custom Garden apparel has recently become a new profit center for the shop and a unique guerrilla - marketing platform. Like a lot of

cutting edge apparel design, many items push the envelope with controversial graphics and slogans. Regardless of the clothing's perception, designing custom clothing and accessories is an emerging strength for the Garden. While the apparel has led to some negative publicity, it continues to provide the Garden with a competitive advantage, by turning the company's marketing investment into both direct and indirect profit centers.

Why Berkshire County?

Both Matt and Bill have lived in Berkshire County all their lives and love what the area has to offer in terms of quality of life and community.

Like all East Cost snow junkies, Matt and Bill yearn for bigger mountains and feet upon feet of fresh powder.

While winters in the Berkshires are hit or miss, the ownership team has a the perk of spending a few we eks every winter out west attending industry trade shows and boarding the country’s best mountains. “We’re always happy to get home though,” said Bill. Some of our favorite times are shredding at Jiminy for a few hours and stopping at the Old Forge on the way home. For as long as we live in the Berkshires, that sh*t will never get old.”

91 Pittsfield Road (routes 7 & 20) | Lenox, MA | arcadian.com.com | 413.637.3010 Business Overview The Arcadian Shop is a full - service hub for outdoor recreation and endurance sports for families (including pets). It provides not only equipment and maintenance services, and apparel for fashion and function, but the shops also offers guides, maps, accessories and gear for cycling and mountain biking, hiking, camping, ka yaking, cross - country and telemark skiing, snowshoeing, running, climbing, as well and food and nutritional supplements and travel gear to keep people going, wherever their destination.

It was established in 1974 by and for outdoors lovers. Since then, it s mission and operations have expanded to provide a Trailside CafĂŠ, rentals, guided tours and demos, and both in - store and online retail services.

Specialties • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Apparel for men, women and children Footwear Running Boats, SUPs and accessories Camping and travel Cycling Dog gear and toys Skiing & Snowshoeing Climbing equipment Food and Nutrition Car racks Informational materials (maps, guides) Equipment rentals

Workforce • Currently owned and operated by Larry Lane.

• A staff of about 16 people, a mix of ful l - time, part - time and seasonal employees.

• Hiring practice includes hiring personnel who have experience and expertise in at least one specialized area.

Financing and local support Lane purchased the business from two other partners in 1981, with the help of savings, purchase revenue, and loan services from Lenox Savings Bank. He credits the facts that he is a Berkshire native and was able to work with local bankers to help him continue to grow the business and relocate from two locations (Williamstown and Lenox) into Arcadian Shop’s current Lenox location. He also worked with Lenox architect Frank Macioge to re - design the historic 1791 building that the shop is housed in.

Lesson for Local Entrepreneurs Lane graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a bachelor’s degree in history. He never set out to start a business.

But when he did first get involved, he was attracted by the prospects

of this new and growing industry. Industry leaders like Patagonia and North Face were just getting off the grou nd in the mid - to late 1960s.

Lane says to be successful you have to have a solid business plan and be able to articulate it well to stakeholders, from lenders to potential customers. You have to have a vision and drive. “My goal is to not be satisfied. I f you’re satisfied, then you can become complacent. We can always improve ourselves,” he said.

Biggest Challenge Arcadian Shop co - manager and buyer Keith DuPuis said that keeping up - to - date with industry trends and competing in an online market is one of the biggest challenges as a retail operation, along with competing with “Big Box” stores.

How did you overcome this challenge?

Lane said the business is customer service - oriented. Everyone on staff there has a specific expertise. For example, store assoc iate Andrew Boino is an avid cyclist and runner and likes to help people find the right footwear. Lane himself is a big fan of skiing.

“We have to have the knowledge to be able to teach people the correct way to do things, otherwise, that’s how people ge t hurt,” Boino said.

In addition, employees also live in and are familiar with Berkshire County, so the employees are a draw for customers, who can benefit from their live, in - person expertise.

“I couldn’t do this by myself. I have a motivated dedicated staff that helps us build credibility,” said Lane.

He and some of his staff often travel to trade shows and conferences to stay up on trends, whether it’s the latest telemark skis or gourmet jerky.

In addition to doing retail, the shop’s business also in cludes food service and rentals, from kayaks to car racks.

Other assets for the business include the large amount of space to store and display products on - site (about 10,000 square feet). The Arcadian Shop parking lot is also connected to a trailhead fo r Kennedy Park, a public outdoor recreation trail system.

HISTORY The Arcadian Shop was founded in 1974 and started with three employees. It was first housed in Williamstown then a second store was opened in the center of Lenox. Larry Lane bought the business from his partners in 1981, and consolidated the operations into a leased space at the former Lenox Country Shops on routes 7 & 20.

In 1996, a final move was made into its current location. The dated 1791 building, a former tavern was renovated and re - designed by Lenox architect Frank Macioge in a fashion that was sensitive to the original historic designs of the area. It is also conveniently located to a trailhead for Kennedy Park.

In addition to some structural changes and renovations over the ye ars, the Arcadian Shop has also expanded its presence, product inventory and services. This includes an online retail site including

its own “Arc Shop” logo - wear line of merino wool apparel. The shop also maintains an in - store café and seating area, featur ing sandwiches, soups, baked goods, coffees, teas, and other soft drinks. Rentals include bikes, kayaks, stand - up paddleboards, luggage boxes, cross country and telemark skis, and snoeshoes.

The Arcadian Shop and its staff also partners with other area bu sinesses and individuals to sponsor special events, from equipment demos, outings, even beer tastings.

Why keep your business in Berkshire County?

“The outdoor recreation industry is great to be in. It’s exciting and fun,” said Lane. He said that it ’s especially viable with national and global concerns about health and wellness and keeping people active.

“We have pretty locally - minded citizens here that support small businesses. Also, Berkshire County is a great place to be in for all outdoor sports ,” said manager/buyer Keith DuPuis.

“In Lenox, were kind of like a community center. We love the area in general because there is so much great character here,” Lane said.

Workforce Development Summary: Outdoor recreation job opportunities in a nd around Berkshire County Surrounded by natural beauty, from lakes to mountains, rivers and trails, open skies and lush forests, Berkshire County offers residents and visitors alike boundless opportunities to learn, play and grow outdoors.

But the count y is also dependent on people caring for, directing to and instructing people how to safely and happily enjoy outdoor recreation.

Outdoor recreation - related jobs range greatly, from custodial and food service providers for outdoor - oriented resorts and act ivity centers, groundskeepers and instructors, to park rangers, conservation manager, and outdoor recreation planners and developers.

The outdoor recreation industry also generates business because they rely on other services, from consultants, designers, marketing firms, municipal permitting agencies, accountants and investors.

Employees in this field can enjoy benefits of an outdoor environment, job training, decent wages and life in the region. However some employees in this field m ay find challenges w ith seasonal employment and a competitive job market, as well and lower wages in comparison to other fields like education, engineering and health care. Benefits, such as health insurance and retirem ent plans m ay vary.

For exam ple, 30 em ployees worked as either lifeguards, ski patrol and other recreational protective services jobs and earned a median annual income of $21,003, according to May 2011 state data collected on occupational em ploym ent and wage statistics for Berkshire County. Two

hundred - forty pe ople were employed as “recreation workers� at $27,750 in annual m edian earnings.

But what would schools be like without field trip coordinators for ski trips or guided nature walks? How might our lakes be without lifeguards or cities and towns without gol f courses and summer baseball leagues? W hat would happen if participants in the Josh Billings Runaground or the Greylock Ram ble had no shops to service their bicycles, kayaks and athletic footwear needs?

Outdoor recreation - oriented businesses and the peop le employed by them fuel, literally at tim es, seasonal and year - round industry and economic developm ent in the Berkshires.

A sam ple guide of 12 websites and opportunities in outdoor recreation em ploym ent in and around Berkshire County (as of June 5, 2012) Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Now seeking a seasonal laborer in Otis; a recreation facilities supervisor in Cheshire http://www.mass.gov/dcr/employment.htm Ski Butternut (G reat Barrington) http://www.skibutternut.com/contact - directions/employment/ Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort (Hancock) Now hiring food service staff http://www.jiminypeak.com/employment Ski Bosquet (Pittsfield) Now hiring summer staff http://www.bousquets.com/about - bousquet/employment/ Berkshire Botanical Garden (Sto ckbridge) Now seeking “Farm in the Garden” camp staff http://www.berkshirebotanical.org/about/employment.html The Trustees of Reservations Now seeking an assistant superintendent in S tockbridge; caretaker at Ashintully; property ranger at Bartholomew’s Cobble http://www.thetrustees.org/about - us/employment/ Country Club of Pittsfield Now seeking banquet servers and bartend ers www.ccpittsfield.org Zoar Outdoor Now seeking whitewater and rock climbing instructors http://www.zoaroutdoor.com/instinfo.htm Nature’s Classroom Now hiring Fall 2012 teachers, cooks and medical staff www.naturesclassroom.org/nc_employment.htm Berkshire W orks Current job listings includes grounds crew, kayak guide, outdoor sports guide s www.berkshireworks.org

Cranwell Current job listings range from spa staff, groundskeeper, security and more www.cranwell.com/positions OutdoorEd.com Curre ntly lists jobs for wilderness program coordinator and outdoor educator at Christodora, which has an education center in town of Florida http://www.outdoored.com/

Commercial Lending One of the biggest challenges facing small businesses is the inability to obtain financing, either to provide a cushion for those first few difficult months or to get the business up and running. For a new start - up company, local banks will send the entrepreneur to the local Small Busi ness Developm ent Center (“SBDC”) before considering financing. The staff at the SBDC will provide free, face - to - face business consulting and at - cost training on writing business plans, accessing capital, marketing, regulatory com pliance, international trad e and more. It is generally only after a business owner has worked with the SBDC to formulate a viable business plan that a local lender will engage in a conversation about commercial lending opportunities. Listed below are the websites for some of the reg ion’s banking institutions’ commercial lending divisions: Adams Com m unity Bank – http://www.adam scom m unity.com/BUSINESS.aspx Berkshire Bank – http://www.berkshirebank.com/business Greylock Federal Credit Union – https://www.greylock.org/page.php?page=4 Lee Bank – http://www.leebank.c om/business/checking NBT Bank – http://www.nbtbank.com/home/business - main.html Pittsfield Co - op – http://www.pittsfield - coop .com/commercial - loans.aspx TD Bank – http://www.tdbank.com/net/small_business.aspx Massachusetts Sm all Business Development Center: Berkshire County Division – http://www.m sbdc.org/berkshire/

SOURCES Action Sports & Adventure African Am erican Heritage Trail American Red Cross Appalachian M ountain Club Appalachian Trail Conservancy Arunah Hill Natural Science Center, Inc. Bartholom ew’s Cobble Bec ket - Chim ney Corners YM CA Berkshire Bike Path Council Berkshire Botanical Garden Berkshire Com m unity College Berkshire Eagle Berkshire Environm ental Action Team Berkshire Natural Resources Council Berkshire Outfitters Berkshire Regional Transit Authority B erkshire W ind Power Co - Op BerkshireSports.org Center for Eco Technology (CET) City of North Adam s City of Pittsfield

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Cranewell Resort Environmental Protection Agency EOS Ventures Golf the Berkshires Greylock Federal Credit Union Grow a Row Housatonic Valle y Association Jiminy Peak Kripalu Center for Health & Yoga Mass Audubon Mass.gov Massachusetts Appalachian Trail Committee Massachusetts Clean Energy Center Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation Massac husetts Museum of Contemporary Art Massachusetts Small Business Development Center New England W aterfalls NutriStrategy Nutrition and Fitness Roadbiking Massachusetts

Snowm obile Association of Massachusetts Stockbridge Bowl Association The Arcadian Shop T he Garden The Jim Lam bert Annual Ice Fishing Derby The Town of Lenox The Trustees of Reservations Town of Richm ond Recreation Committee United Cerebral Palsy of Berkshire County W estfield River W ild & Scenic Association W illiam s College W illiam stown Rural Lands www.m alegislature.gov Youth Center, Inc.

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