image description
Those without power can get emergency shelter at the Visitor Center.

Adams Emergency Shelter Set Up For Those Without Power

By Jack GuerinoiBerkshires Staff
Print Story | Email Story

Update Tuesday morning via Town of AdamsThank you to the Town of Adams Emergency ManagementAdams Police DepartmentTown of Adams Forest Warden DepartmentAdams Fire Department, and Adams Ambulance for setting up and staffing the Visitors Center as a shelter throughout the night. The building is now closed, but will reopen at 8:30 am for normal business hours. We continue to monitor the situation in the affected areas. If you are in the affected area and require assistance please contact the Adams Police Department at 743-1212 or 911 for emergencies.


ADAMS, Mass. — Emergency Management is providing shelter at the Visitor Center for those still without power.

Adams Police reported that parts of East Street, Francis Avenue, and Morningside Avenue are still without power after Monday's heavy winds and the Visitor Center is open for those without heat.

Police Sgt. Scott McWhirt said it is believed that the outrage stems from an incident around noon on Airport Road and although National Grid is on the scene, power has not yet been restored.

“National Grid has been advised and they have been in the area but they have been unable to get the power back on so people are losing heat,” he said. “It is only if they want. I am sure some people are going to stay home.”

McWhirt said those without transportation can call the department (413-743-1212). Northern Berkshire EMS are providing transportation to the Visitor Center.

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

State Celebrates Agriculture Day with Farmland Preservation Funding, Youth Council Announcement

BOSTON.—Governor Maura Healey has declared March 18, 2025, as Massachusetts Agriculture Day. The event, held at the State House, highlighted the contributions of farmers, growers, and agricultural groups to the state's food supply and natural resource protection.
 
"We stand with our incredible farmers every day, and today we are proudly celebrating their hard work and resilience. Through every challenge they face, these farmers cultivate the crops that feed our families and strengthen our communities. Their dedication ensures that fresh, local food reaches every table," said Governor Maura Healey. "At a time of immense uncertainty at the federal level, Massachusetts is fully committed to delivering the support, programs and resources that empower our farmers to grow, expand and succeed."
 
The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced over $5 million in funding to permanently protect nearly 400 acres of farmland across eight farms through the Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) program. Shaker Farm in Richmond completed an APR project in 2024.
 
An additional $500,000 will be allocated to assist existing APR farmers in restoring previously unsuitable land.
 
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner Ashley Randle announced the new members of the Massachusetts Agricultural Youth Council. The council, now in its second year, comprises 15 high school students selected to discuss agricultural issues, learn about the legislative process and workforce development, and attend industry events. Olivia Silvernail from Hoosac Valley was selected to serve on the council.
 
Commissioner Randle also declared 2025 as the Year of Youth in Agriculture, aimed at increasing youth involvement in farming. The declaration will provide opportunities to highlight young adult voices in agriculture through events and partnerships with organizations such as 4-H and FFA.
 
"Youth engagement in agriculture has been one of our top priorities at MDAR so I’m delighted to welcome in a new class of leaders who will help shape the future of agriculture and especially want to thank our inaugural class for their contributions and involvement over the past year," said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle. "While there are always challenges in farming and agriculture, I’m optimistic that our future looks bright with the amount of interest we’ve seen in our students who share the same values we all have in making sure we continue to grow and nurture a rich and diverse industry. Through our farmland protection programs, we’ll make sure that when the next generation of farmers take their place in shaping the agricultural landscape, they will have access to farmland here in Massachusetts so they can make their mark."
 
View Full Story

More Adams Stories