Photo Courtesy of Yellow Productions
Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge Named National Natural Landmark
On Thursday, December 19, 2024, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland designated Nantucket Barrier Beach and Wildlife Refuge in Massachusetts (Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge) as the newest National Natural Landmark, reflecting its unique ecological diversity and rare coastal features.
National Natural Landmarks recognize and encourage the conservation of publicly and privately owned and managed places that contain noteworthy biological and geological resources. Sites are designated by the Secretary of the Interior for their outstanding condition, illustrative character, rarity, diversity, and value to science and education.
This designation is 16 years in the making. To keep up with current work on the refuge, visit coskatacoatue.org. You can also read a National Parks Service article about the NNL designation here: Nantucket Barrier Beach and Wildlife Refuge: A New National Natural Landmark.
John Grade to Give 2025 Paul J. Cronin Memorial Lecture
Seattle-based artist and sculptor John Grade—who draws inspiration from changing ecosystems in the natural world—will be coming to deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum this March for the annual Paul J. Cronin Memorial Lecture. Grade works with his team to sculpt immersive large-scale, site-specific installations that engage people to directly participate in their creation and alteration over time. “I am pleased to join the community for this year’s Cronin lecture,” said Grade. “While excited to share recent and current work, I also look forward to engaging with attendees to better understand the remarkable history and landscape at and surrounding deCordova.” The Paul J. Cronin Memorial Lecture series was established in 1981 thanks to a generous grant from Grover J. Cronin and considers topics broadly focused on changing attitudes towards 20th- and 21st-century art. Grade will deliver his free lecture in the latest installment of the series at deCordova in Lincoln on Thursday, March 27.
deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum Celebrates 75th Anniversary
Since opening its doors in 1950, deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum has been a focal point of contemporary art in New England. Ground-breaking exhibitions from living regional artists coupled with a clear educational directive have always separated—and continue to distinguish—this special place in Lincoln from its peers. Now entering its 75th year, deCordova plans to celebrate its prevailing legacy. “For generations, deCordova visitors have been immersed in both stunning art and nature,” said Michael Busack, Trustees Museum Director of deCordova, Fruitlands Museum, and The Old Manse. “We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone anniversary with a year full of opportunities for visitors to experience this special harmony.” The museum’s rich history and unique ability to connect people, art, and nature will be honored throughout 2025 with various special events, program offerings, and a new outdoor exhibit. Stay connected with The Trustees as we share more about deCordova’s upcoming 75th anniversary celebrations.
