Quabbin Photo Group to host wildlife biologist

BELCHERTOWN – The Quabbin Photo Group (QPG) will hold its next meeting on Monday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m. at the Belchertown Recreation Department, 66 State St., Belchertown. The meeting is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend.

This month’s guest speaker will be Jillian Whitney, a wildlife biologist with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Division of Water Supply Protection. Whitney began her career with DCR in 2005 as a seasonal technician and has been with the agency ever since.

She will share insights from her work studying wildlife around the Quabbin and Ware River watersheds, highlighting projects such as Common Loon monitoring, vernal pool surveys, and other efforts to better understand and protect local wildlife.

Founded in 1984, the Quabbin Photo Group traces its roots to the Belchertown Color Camera Club, which was established in 1948 by noted local photographer Les Campbell. What began as a small group of friends meeting in homes a few times a year has evolved into a vibrant organization that now holds monthly meetings and educational programs for photographers of all levels.

The Quabbin Photo Group welcomes anyone with an interest in nature photography, whether beginner or experienced. Meetings throughout the year feature educational presentations, guest speakers, and “member nights,” where participants share and discuss their work.

For more information, visit our website at quabbinphotogroup.com or contact QPG President Mark Lindhult at mlindhult@gmail.com or Program Chair Ed Comeau at ecomeau@comeauphotography.com.

North Quabbin Garden Club meeting

ATHOL – On Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. at the Millers River Environmental Center, Kathie Skinner, a Lifetime Master Gardener, will discuss hydrangeas – planting, pH, pruning, problems and common issues. There will be time for questions. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Max Bowen is the editor of the Athol Daily News, and can be reached at mbowen@atholdailynews.com and 413-930-4074. He’s worked in media since 2003 as a correspondent, reporter, photographer and editor...