News
September 17, 2025
Trustees cite ecosystem protection in ending Flying Deer’s longtime Bartholomew’s Cobble programs
After more than a decade at Bartholomew’s Cobble, Flying Deer Nature Center is relocating its programs to April Hill in South Egremont — a move that has left some parents who say their kids have grown up on the land...
**Flying Deer Nature Center Moves Programs from Bartholomew's Cobble, Citing Ecosystem Protection**
Sheffield, MA – After a long and fruitful partnership spanning over a decade, Flying Deer Nature Center is ending its programming at Bartholomew's Cobble Reservation, a scenic and ecologically significant landmark managed by The Trustees of Reservations. The popular nature-based education organization will be relocating its programs to April Hill in South Egremont, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the center.
The decision to move, according to The Trustees, stems from a commitment to protecting the delicate ecosystem of Bartholomew's Cobble. The reservation, a National Natural Landmark, boasts an extraordinary array of biodiversity, including rare plant species and unique geological formations. Increased foot traffic and program activities, while beneficial for community engagement, have raised concerns about their potential impact on the Cobble's sensitive environment.
"The Trustees are dedicated to preserving the natural integrity of Bartholomew's Cobble," explained a spokesperson for the organization. "While we value our long-standing relationship with Flying Deer Nature Center and appreciate the educational opportunities they provided, we believe this relocation is necessary to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of this invaluable resource."
Flying Deer Nature Center has expressed understanding and support for The Trustees' decision. They acknowledge the importance of responsible land stewardship and are excited about the opportunities that April Hill presents. The new location offers a diverse landscape for exploration and learning, allowing them to continue providing high-quality nature-based programs for children and adults.
However, the move has been met with mixed emotions from some parents whose children have deeply benefited from Flying Deer's programs at Bartholomew's Cobble. For many, the Cobble has been more than just a location; it has been an integral part of their children's upbringing and connection to nature.
"My kids have practically grown up at the Cobble," said one parent. "They've learned so much about the natural world through Flying Deer's programs, and the Cobble itself has become a second home for them. It's sad to see this chapter close."
Despite the bittersweet feelings, Flying Deer Nature Center is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for its participants. They are working diligently to create engaging and enriching experiences at April Hill, fostering the same sense of wonder and connection to nature that has defined their programs at Bartholomew's Cobble. The center anticipates announcing its new program schedule at April Hill soon and looks forward
Sheffield, MA – After a long and fruitful partnership spanning over a decade, Flying Deer Nature Center is ending its programming at Bartholomew's Cobble Reservation, a scenic and ecologically significant landmark managed by The Trustees of Reservations. The popular nature-based education organization will be relocating its programs to April Hill in South Egremont, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the center.
The decision to move, according to The Trustees, stems from a commitment to protecting the delicate ecosystem of Bartholomew's Cobble. The reservation, a National Natural Landmark, boasts an extraordinary array of biodiversity, including rare plant species and unique geological formations. Increased foot traffic and program activities, while beneficial for community engagement, have raised concerns about their potential impact on the Cobble's sensitive environment.
"The Trustees are dedicated to preserving the natural integrity of Bartholomew's Cobble," explained a spokesperson for the organization. "While we value our long-standing relationship with Flying Deer Nature Center and appreciate the educational opportunities they provided, we believe this relocation is necessary to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of this invaluable resource."
Flying Deer Nature Center has expressed understanding and support for The Trustees' decision. They acknowledge the importance of responsible land stewardship and are excited about the opportunities that April Hill presents. The new location offers a diverse landscape for exploration and learning, allowing them to continue providing high-quality nature-based programs for children and adults.
However, the move has been met with mixed emotions from some parents whose children have deeply benefited from Flying Deer's programs at Bartholomew's Cobble. For many, the Cobble has been more than just a location; it has been an integral part of their children's upbringing and connection to nature.
"My kids have practically grown up at the Cobble," said one parent. "They've learned so much about the natural world through Flying Deer's programs, and the Cobble itself has become a second home for them. It's sad to see this chapter close."
Despite the bittersweet feelings, Flying Deer Nature Center is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for its participants. They are working diligently to create engaging and enriching experiences at April Hill, fostering the same sense of wonder and connection to nature that has defined their programs at Bartholomew's Cobble. The center anticipates announcing its new program schedule at April Hill soon and looks forward
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