NGI

Community members gathered at a Summer Beach Seine event on Edgartown Great Pond.

Do you love the coastal ponds of Martha’s Vineyard? Whatever your connection to ponds, we all share one essential responsibility; to preserve and protect these rare Island treasures and ensure that future generations can experience and benefit from these remarkable environments.

GPF has been working to bring together the next generation of the Island ponds community through the Next Generation Initiative (NGI). Developed by Lisa Berkower (Kanomika neighbor) and Anne Mazar (GPF Board Member), the NGI was created to inspire younger community members to develop a meaningful connection to the ponds and to participate in their long-term preservation.

The NGI will host free events both in the summer and throughout the off-season, offering opportunities to:

  • Explore pond ecology and the challenges facing these sensitive environments
  • Work directly with scientists and conservation professionals
  • Meet peers who share a passion for the environment
  • Develop practical stewardship skills

We invite you to help us ensure that the coastal ponds of Martha’s Vineyard remain healthy, vibrant, and accessible for generations to come. By supporting and sharing the NGI, you play a vital role in protecting these invaluable ecosystems and fostering the stewards of tomorrow.

We want to be clear that this is not a solicitation for funding, but solely an educational and social endeavor. When joining the NGI, members will receive information about free optional upcoming programs and events!