Urban Wilds Strategic Plan
The City of Boston (Environment Department and Parks and Recreation Department) is conducting an Urban Wilds Strategic Plan update that will guide the strategic and sustainable growth of the Urban Wilds Program.
The Urban Wilds Program, which is a partnership between the Parks and Recreation Department and the Boston Conservation Commission, protects, restores, and maintains 30 Urban Wilds across Boston for conservation, environmental education, and passive recreation. The plan will build on the 2002 Urban Wilds and Natural Areas Management Plan to provide updated recommendations on best practices for recreation and resource management, staffing and budget structures, acquisition criteria, and program identity and awareness to support the future of the Urban Wilds program.
The Urban Wilds Strategic Plan is managed by the Boston Parks & Recreation Department and the Environment Department. The consultant team is led by Agency Landscape + Planning who have partnered with ChapmanEcoLandscape and PROS Consulting.
WHAT IS THE GOAL OF THIS STUDY?
Our goal for this plan is to develop:
- a clear vision for building a top tier natural areas program for the City of Boston;
- recommendations to guide land management decisions in support of Urban Wilds Program priorities and strategic investment of funds and resources for conservation and recreation purposes;
- structures for staffing and budgeting that will ensure the longevity and successful operation of the Urban Wilds Program; and
- branding, signage, and programs that will raise the profile of the program and improve access and education for residents.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
Take the survey! The City wants to hear from everyone, whether you visit Urban Wilds often, live next to one, or have never heard of them until today. The survey should take about 5-10 minutes. Responses are anonymous, and results will directly inform the plan.
Join us at the Open House on November 10! Meet with other residents and City staff to talk about the Urban Wilds program and provide additional feedback. Stop by the Franklin Park Club House between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Meet the staff working on the strategic plan at one of these upcoming events where we'll be popping up with maps and additional information about the existing program.
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Roslindale Mayor’s Coffee Hour – Thursday, October 15, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Adams Park (Roslindale)
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Mattahaunt Woods Discovery Day – Saturday, October 17, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mattahunt Woods Urban Wild (Mattapan)
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Evergreen/Kenny Neighborhood Association Plant Care Day – Saturday, October 17, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Nira Rock Urban Wild (Jamaica Plain)
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Roslindale Open Streets – Sunday, October 18, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Adams Park (Roslindale)
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Roxbury Mayor’s Coffee Hour – Thursday, October 22, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Malcolm X Park (Roxbury)
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Condor Street Painting Session – Saturday, October 24, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Condor Street Urban Wild (East Boston)
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Mayor’s Cup Cross Country Race – Sunday, October 25, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Franklin Park (Dorchester/Roxbury)
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Hunter’s Full Moon Guided Nature Journaling – Monday, October 26, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Geneva Cliffs (Dorchester)
More details on the project timeline and how to participate will be posted as the project develops.
Reach out to alice.brown@boston.gov or katherine.oetheimer@boston.gov if you have any questions.
