Detailed description

The Tri-City Forest project protects 6,500-acres of combined watershed across the Western Massachusetts cities of Holyoke, West Springfield, and Westfield. This swath of land not only sequesters about 122,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per year, but also protects forests consisting of hardwoods, spruce-fir, and other shrub species. The project, under the guidelines of the American Climate Registry, the Forest Stewardship Council and the Massachusetts Water authorities, protects forests around critical watersheds which helps the cities earn needed income from carbon rather than harvesting valuable trees. With sustainable forest management of the Tri-City Forest project, this ideal forest ecosystem offers the least expensive natural filter for the drinking water that serves three cities. The project has the added benefits of protecting and enhancing the habitat for a variety of large and small mammals, birds, and reptiles that are considered rare or threatened species. It also involves the public through outreach and education to ensure the preservation of these forests.