Eco-Friendly Holidays: A Gift to the Earth

This holiday season, let’s take a moment to honor our shared home on Earth. Consider a gift of gratitude to various local organizations dedicated to protecting the environment of the Hudson Valley and promoting a sustainable future. Many earth-focused nonprofits provide programs and grants that support small farms, protecting animals and pollinators, and clean rivers and streams. Others are instrumental in maintaining the health and vitality of our forests, enhancing biodiversity, mitigating climate change, advocating for open spaces, organizing cleanup efforts, and improving the overall ecological health of our region.

Although it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the world’s problems, we can make a significant difference right in our own communities. We can make a positive impact through volunteerism, taking thoughtful actions, and making financial contributions. Also, tax-deductible donations made in the names of loved ones offer inspiring alternatives to mass-produced presents during the holiday season.

Together, let’s support our neighbors in need, fortify our communities, and help nourish our local ecosystems and waterways. Even small amounts of time and money go a long way.

“To love a place is not enough. We must find ways to heal it.” – Robin Wall Kimmerer

With gratitude and love, we share this roundup of amazing organizations that are protecting our communities and beyond.

Catskill Forest Association | Arkville, NY | @catskillforest
The Catskill Forest Association promotes sustainable forestry and forest restoration in the Catskill region. Through education and outreach, they help landowners manage their forests for long-term ecological health, focusing on replanting, biodiversity conservation, and soil and water protection.

Catskill Mountainkeeper | Rosendale, NY |  @mountainkeeper
Catskill Mountainkeeper is dedicated to protecting the Catskill and Hudson River regions through sustainable development and environmental advocacy. The organization addresses issues like water quality, habitat preservation, and renewable energy while championing responsible growth.

Columbia Land Conservancy | Chatham, NY | @columbialand
The Columbia Land Conservancy is a land conservancy dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural landscapes of Columbia County, NY. Through land stewardship, conservation easements, and community engagement, CLC works to maintain the area’s ecological health and scenic beauty for future generations.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Dutchess County | Millbrook, NY | @ccedutchess
Providing educational programs and resources to support sustainable agriculture, gardening, and community health, they offer workshops focused on pollinator-friendly habitats, soil health, and farm productivity, helping local farmers and gardeners adopt environmentally responsible practices. Through hands-on learning, they foster biodiversity, environmental stewardship, and the long-term sustainability of agriculture in the Hudson Valley.

Dutchess Land Conservancy | Millbrook, NY | @dutchesslandconservancy
The Dutchess Land Conservancy works to conserve the natural landscapes and agricultural heritage of Dutchess County, NY. By protecting vital open spaces, farmland, and wildlife habitats, the Conservancy ensures the preservation of the county’s ecological and scenic resources for the benefit of both people and wildlife.

Dreaming of a Chance Bird Sanctuary | Pleasant Valley, NY |  @dreamingofachanceny
Dreaming of a Chance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing abandoned domestic pigeons from the Hudson Valley and NYC, offering them a forever home. Located on a restored 1840s farm, the organization also educates the public on proper bird care, the environmental impacts of bird abandonment, and how to assist abandoned domestic birds. Alongside their pigeon rescue efforts, Dreaming of a Chance shares the farm with Lilymoore Farm, an alpaca farm, and cares for over 160 animals across 14 species.

For Farmers Movement | @xoxofarmgirl | Exclusive I+O Article Here
This is a great way to support our local farmers of the Hudson Valley! A nonprofit program offering essential grants to small and mid-sized American farms, it is an organization dedicated to advocacy and making sure these more vulnerable farms have the funding and support they need. Owner Dana Diprima says, “Farmers are essential. They’re at the center of solutions to our health, environment, communities and economy.” Remembering “no farms, no food” is an excellent way of sharing the love.

Friends of the Shawangunks | New Paltz, NY | FACEBOOK
Dedicated to preserving the Shawangunk Ridge and its surrounding watersheds that are vital sources of drinking water in the area and beyond. The organization works to protect the region’s natural resources through sustainable land use advocacy, water quality monitoring, and ecological preservation.

Glynwood | Cold Spring, NY |  @glynwoodorg
Glynwood promotes sustainable farming and local food systems in the Hudson Valley, with an emphasis on protecting pollinator health. Their programs educate farmers and landowners on cultivating native plants and adopting practices that support and preserve pollinator populations.

Hudson Highlands Land Trust | Cold Spring, NY | @hhltny
The Hudson Highlands Land Trust is committed to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Hudson Highlands region. Through land conservation, stewardship, and community outreach, HHLT protects vital habitats, wildlife corridors, and scenic vistas for future generations.

Hudson River Audubon Society | Tivoli, NY | @hudsonriveraudubon
The HRAS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of birds, wildlife, and habitats in the Hudson River Valley. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, HRAS promotes environmental stewardship, organizes birdwatching events, and works on habitat restoration projects. Their efforts focus on raising awareness about local ecosystems and advocating for policies that safeguard the natural environment for future generations.

Hudson River Estuary Program | Albany, NY |  @nysdec
The Hudson River Estuary Program, managed by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, supports forest restoration and stewardship across the Hudson River watershed. Its projects focus on restoring native vegetation, controlling invasive species, and improving water quality and biodiversity in the region.

Hudson River Sloop Clearwater | Beacon, NY | @sloopclearwater
Founded by Pete Seeger, Clearwater is dedicated to preserving the Hudson River and its watershed. Through educational programs, sailing excursions, and advocacy, the organization raises awareness about pollution, climate change, and the importance of clean water.

Hudson River Watershed Alliance | Garrison, NY | @hudsonriverwatershedalliance
The Hudson River Watershed Alliance supports local communities in protecting and improving the water quality of the Hudson River and its tributaries. The Alliance provides resources, technical assistance, and advocacy to municipalities, landowners, and organizations to enhance water conservation practices and effective watershed management.

Hudson Valley Farm Hub | Kingston NY | @hvfarmhub
The Hudson Valley Farm Hub is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing sustainable farming and food systems in the region. Through research, education, and support for local farmers, the Farm Hub focuses on innovative farming practices, soil health, and climate resilience.

Nature Conservancy – New York Chapter | New York, NY |  @nature_org
The Nature Conservancy in New York works to protect pollinators through habitat restoration, land conservation, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. Their efforts focus on planting native species and reducing pesticide use to create healthier ecosystems for pollinators.

Pollinate HV | Hudson Valley, NY | @climateactionhv
Pollinate HV encourages individuals, schools, and municipalities to plant native, pollinator-friendly plants and offers instruction and support. The initiative aims to combat the decline of pollinator populations in the region by creating safe habitats for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Riverkeeper | Ossining, NY | @riverkeeper
A nonprofit organization focused on protecting the Hudson River and its tributaries. Through advocacy, water quality monitoring, and grassroots campaigns, Riverkeeper aims to reduce pollution and protect public health, ensuring a clean and healthy waterway for future generations.

Scenic Hudson | Poughkeepsie, NY | @scenichudson
Scenic Hudson is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of the Hudson River Valley. Through land conservation, environmental advocacy, wildlife protection, and community engagement, Scenic Hudson works to promote sustainable development and increase public access to nature.

The Dyson Foundation | Millbrook, NY | FACEBOOK
The Dyson Foundation is a nonprofit that serves the Hudson Valley region, focusing its philanthropic efforts in the counties of Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, and Ulster. Through grants and community initiatives, the Foundation supports education, health, arts, and environmental conservation projects across these areas.

The New York Bee Sanctuary | New York, NY (Sanctuary Location TBD) | @nybeesanctuary
The New York Bee Sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of honey bees and other pollinators across the Hudson Valley. The sanctuary, in the process of establishing a permanent site, uses permaculture principles to create thriving, pollinator-friendly habitats.

The Rondout Valley Growers Association (RVGA) | Accord, NY | @rondoutvalleygrowers
The Rondout Valley Growers Association is a farmer-led nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the Hudson Valley’s agricultural community. RVGA supports local agriculture through education, community engagement, and youth development, fostering connections between farmers, consumers, and underserved populations.

Watershed Agricultural Council | Walton, NY | @waterfarmforest
The Watershed Agricultural Council promotes sustainable agricultural practices in the New York City watershed, which extends into parts of the Hudson Valley. By partnering with local farmers, the Council helps reduce water runoff, prevent pollution, and improve water quality through environmentally conscious farming techniques.

Wild Earth | High Falls, NY | @wildearthny
Wild Earth Camp and Wilderness School offer nature-based educational programs focusing on outdoor adventure, wilderness skills, and environmental awareness. Their immersive camps and courses help build confidence and resilience, fostering a deep connection to the natural world and a sense of stewardship. Summer, year-round, child, family and adult programs.

Woodstock Land Conservancy | Woodstock, NY | @woodstock_land_conservancy
Committed to preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of the Woodstock area, their team has been working diligently to protect forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitats since 1987. The Conservancy ensures these spaces remain accessible for future generations through partnerships with landowners and local communities, they promote sustainable land management and environmental stewardship in the heart of the Hudson Valley.

Thank you, friend, for all the ways you give, big and small, to protect, restore and nourish the Earth!  And THANK YOU to all the organizations that play a crucial role in safeguarding the environment of the Hudson Valley and beyond, advocating for a sustainable future for all of us.

We will leave you with one more inspiring Earth-minded quote by environmentalist and author Robin Wall Kimmerer from her book Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants.

“We need acts of restoration, not only for polluted waters and degraded lands but also for our relationship to the world. We need to restore honor to the way we live so that when we walk through the world, we don’t have to avert our eyes with shame so that we can hold our heads up high and receive the respectful acknowledgment of the rest of the Earth’s beings.”