Retreat Program

Build foundational climate adaptation knowledge and forge new connections with peers!

Mass ECAN (Ecosystem Climate Adaptation Network) is a community of practice for climate adaptation practitioners and researchers interested in ecosystems and nature in Massachusetts. 

Our Retreat Program is a unique opportunity to receive training in foundational adaptation knowledge and have opportunities to develop and deepen relationships with peers. This program will run from September 10-12 in Plymouth, MA. The Retreat Center is nestled in the woods and surrounded by 12 miles of trails. The property is off the beaten path and this will be a true sleepaway camp experience!

This Retreat will be for those already working on climate adaptation in our state who are passionate about advancing adaptation practices on the ground, building relationships with colleagues, and sharing what they learn. All participants will develop a climate adaptation project to implement afterwards. This opportunity is made possible through funding from the Barr Foundation.

See the announcement
 

Thank you to those who attended our pilot Retreat!

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Retreat Programs are unique in their balance of professional and informal social opportunities, while allowing participants time for reflection away from their normal daily responsibilities and in a beautiful natural setting. After the Retreat, the cohort will have opportunities to stay connected with each other and future alumni of the Program.

    Learning: Build and sharpen foundational climate adaptation knowledge

    Skill-building: Practice skills and workshop climate adaptation approaches 

    Community: Develop and deepen relationships with peers

    Reflection: Get off the treadmill and gain new perspective on your work

    Motivation: Gain inspiration through engaging with others

    • Working on climate adaptation projects in Massachusetts and interested in ecosystems and nature

    • Commitment to a ~2.5-day sleepaway camp experience 

    • Ability to gain supervisor approval

    • If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at massecan<at>umass.edu!

    • Be open to peer learning and collaboration

    • Engage in Retreat activities over the course of 2.5 days

    • Workshop a climate adaptation project/initiative idea to implement after the Retreat

    • Apply what you have learned to your work and share it within your own network

    • Complete pre- and post-evaluations

  • The following criteria will be assessed by the Retreat Planning Committee when reviewing interest forms:

    • Commitment to the program expectations and format

    • Representation from a variety of organization types and geographies across the state

    • Demonstrated work on climate adaptation and potential impact of future work

  • Lodging and meals are included, but we ask that participants contribute $40 in tuition towards the Retreat. Please do not let this deter you from applying! If your organization is unable to do so, just reach out to us about a waiver.