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'Trees are Terrific' is the theme of the state Arbor Day Poster Contest this year.

Fifth Grade Arbor Day Poster Contest Theme: 'Trees are Terrific'

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BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation has announced the theme of 2017's fifth grade Arbor Day Poster Contest: "Trees are Terrific … from Berkshires to Bay!"

Fifth grade classes from both public and private schools across the commonwealth are encouraged to participate in the annual Arbor Day Poster Contest by having the students create posters highlighting this year's theme, and then hosting a school poster contest. The winning poster from each school can then be submitted to the agency for review.

"I am delighted that students from across the Commonwealth continue to participate in the Department of Conservation and Recreation's annual Arbor Day Poster Contest," said DCR Commissioner Leo Roy. "Every year the agency receives excellent posters from many of the state's fifth grade students, and I am excited to view this year's creative entries."

First place prizes for the DCR Arbor Day Poster Contest include a tree planting ceremony at the winner's school, a certificate for art and science supplies, and more. Second Place, Third Place, and Honorable Mention winners will also receive art and science supplies.


"The Arbor Day Poster Contest is a fun way for students to use their creativity and put their knowledge about trees to use," said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester. "I encourage all students to consider participating."

Important benefits trees provide the commonwealth include: rhe reduction in energy consumption; the cleaning of both water and air; he reduction of noise pollution; rhe beautification of communities; and the providing of habitats for wildlife.

This year's theme is designed to highlight the importance of trees within Massachusetts’ communities and diverse landscapes throughout the state. Additionally, the Arbor Day Poster Contest combines both art and science in an effort to instill the vital role trees have on the public’s daily lives.

The DCR Urban and Community Forestry Program, with support from the U.S. Forest Service, sponsors the annual contest for fifth graders across the commonwealth. Posters must be submitted by March 15, and the contest is open to all students currently enrolled in the fifth grade. An Arbor Day Poster Contest Guide is available on the DCR website or can be obtained by contacting Mollie Freilicher, 413-577-2966 or mollie.freilicher@state.ma.us.


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MassDOT Project Will Affect Traffic Near BMC

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Prepare for traffic impacts around Berkshire Medical Center through May for a state Department of Transportation project to improve situations and intersections on North Street and First Street.

Because of this, traffic will be reduced to one lane of travel on First Street (U.S. Route 7) and North Street between Burbank Street and Abbott Street from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday through at least May 6.

BMC and Medical Arts Complex parking areas remain open and detours may be in place at certain times. The city will provide additional updates on changes to traffic patterns in the area as construction progresses.

The project has been a few years in the making, with a public hearing dating back to 2021. It aims to increase safety for all modes of transportation and improve intersection operation.

It consists of intersection widening and signalization improvements at First and Tyler streets, the conversion of North Street between Tyler and Stoddard Avenue to serve one-way southbound traffic only, intersection improvements at Charles Street and North Street, intersection improvements at Springside Avenue and North Street, and the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of First Street, North Street, Stoddard Avenue, and the Berkshire Medical Center entrance.

Work also includes the construction of 5-foot bike lanes and 5-foot sidewalks with ADA-compliant curb ramps.  

Last year, the City Council approved multiple orders for the state project: five orders of takings for intersection and signal improvements at First Street and North Street. 

The total amount identified for permanent and temporary takings is $397,200, with $200,000 allocated by the council and the additional monies coming from carryover Chapter 90 funding. The state Transportation Improvement Plan is paying for the project and the city is responsible for 20 percent of the design cost and rights-of-way takings.

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