Letter: Halt the Notch Reservoir Logging Project

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed logging project at the Notch Reservoir in North Adams, a key source of our city's drinking water. While the city has released minimal details regarding this project, what has been shared raises significant concerns about both the environmental and community impact.

After attending the Conservation Commission meeting on Oct. 3, it is clear that both the commission and the community feel ill-prepared to assess the project and its potential impacts on the surrounding wetlands.

There are several reasons this project must be reconsidered:

Risk to our watershed: Logging around our drinking water supply introduces the threat of contamination. The use of heavy machinery, combined with industrial activities such as equipment storage, maintenance, and potential leaks, poses an unnecessary risk to the water quality that so many residents depend on. The consequences of contamination could be devastating.

Lack of hydrological studies: No hydrological studies have been conducted to assess the current state of the reservoir or the surrounding wetlands. Without baseline data, we are unable to measure the long-term impact of this project. If water quality issues arise in the future, we will have no reference point to determine the extent of damage or hold responsible parties accountable. This is simply irresponsible.

Destruction of the Bellows Pipe Trail: The Bellows Pipe is an iconic hiking trail that connects our community to Mt. Greylock. This trail draws tourists and locals alike, contributing to the city's appeal and economy. The logging project threatens to severely damage this vital natural resource, severing a key part of our recreational landscape.
No financial benefit: The city's financial projections show a poor financial outcome from the logging project, meaning North Adams would not profit. To risk our watershed, our trails, and increased infrastructure strain makes no sense. The minimal financial gain does not justify the environmental and community costs.

Strain on local infrastructure: The increased use of local roads like Luce, Notch, and Reservoir roads by heavy logging equipment will put additional strain on our infrastructure. These roads run through residential neighborhoods, and the presence of industrial vehicles will not only cause wear and tear but also increase safety risks for residents and commuters. This cost has not been adequately considered.

I urge the city to halt this project, thoroughly study the potential impacts, and prioritize the long-term health of our natural resources.

Justin Wagg
North Adams, Mass. 

Clarksburg Students Write in Support of Rural School Aid

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
07:25AM / Sunday, March 15, 2026

Mason Langenback calculated that Clarksburg would get almost $1 million if the $60 million was allocated equally.

CLARKSBURG, Mass. — Eighth-graders at Clarksburg School took a lesson in civic advocacy this week, researching school funding and writing letters to Beacon Hill that call for fully funding rural school aid. 

 

The students focused on the hardships for small rural schools and their importance to the community — that they struggle with limited funding and teacher shortages, but offer safe and supportive spaces for learning and are a hub for community connections.

 

"They all address the main issue, the funding for rural schools, and how there's a gap, and there's the $4 million gap this year, and then it's about the $40 million next year, and that rural schools need that equitable funding," said social studies teacher Mark Karhan.

 

A rural schools report in 2022 found smaller school districts cost from nearly 17 percent to 23 percent more to operate, and recommended "at least" $60 million be appropriated annually for rural school aid. 

 

Gov. Maura Healey has filed for more Chapter 70 school aid, but that often is little help to small rural schools with declining or static enrollment. For fiscal 2027, she's budgeted $20 million for rural schools, up from around $13 million this year but still far below the hoped for $60 million. 

 

Karhan said the class was broken into four groups and the students were provided a submission letter from Rural Schools Advocacy. The students used the first paragraph, which laid out the funding facts, and then did research and wrote their own letters. 

 

They will submit those with a school picture to the governor.