There’s something about this time of year when everything starts to come back to life that naturally pulls us outside. Consider Earth week a reminder to start getting out more for walks, starting a small garden, or gathering with friends doing something that feels good and connects you a little more to where you live.
Here are a few ideas to carry you through spring:
WALK, RIDE OR CAR POOL FOR A DAY
If walking or biking to your destination isn’t realistic, consider organizing a simple carpool for the day. Even one less car on the road makes a difference—reducing emissions, fuel use, and overall congestion.
It’s also a small shift that often turns into something more—slowing down your day just enough to notice your surroundings or even connect with someone you might not have otherwise
VISIT FARMER’S MARKETS AND LOCAL FARMS
There’s nothing quite like fresh, local food this time of year. Visiting a farm or joining a CSA (community-supported agriculture) program connects you directly to where your food comes from. Some local farms offer a delivery service as well.
To name a few both in Dartmouth, Round the Bend Farm and Brix Bounty Farm offer CSA’s and host market stands at their location. They can often be found at local farmers markets. Part of the experience is getting to know your farmers.
START A SMALL GARDEN
A visit to Butterfly Effect Farm in Westport is worth the trip. Specializing in native, ecologically beneficial plants, it’s the kind of place that changes how you think about your yard. Opening Day is Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 10-3pm.
Owner Emily Dutra is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate—whether you’re starting small or looking to transform your landscape into something more natural and low-maintenance.
If a garden seems too overwhelming then perhaps purchase some small herb plants and transfer into your own decorated pots. They are perfect for a sunny windowsill in your home or once the weather warms up on your porch. They also make great gift ideas especially for an Earth Day gift to neighbors and friends.
This brings me to one of my favorite ideas you can do this Spring….
HOST A SPRING “SWAP” GATHERING
This might be one of the simplest and most fun ways to celebrate Earth Week.
Invite a small group of friends and have each person bring something thoughtful to share with everyone else.
Ideas could include:
- Seed packets or seedlings
- A bit of sourdough starter
- Homemade vanilla extract or jam
- Local honey
- Fresh herbs
- Painted pots or handmade items
Everyone leaves with a collection of meaningful, earth-friendly items and it naturally turns into a relaxed, memorable gathering. Add a simple craft or light lunch, and you’ve created something special without overthinking it.
START A SIMPLE COMPOST SYSTEM
Even a small countertop bin or backyard setup can make a difference. Composting reduces waste while creating nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
It’s one of those habits that starts small and quickly becomes second nature.
Another option for compost is to purchase at a local farm. A few to mention are Sunnynook farm in Rochester and Copicut Farms in Dartmouth.
VISIT A LOCAL LAND TRUST TRAIL OR TRUSTEES PROPERTY
Check out Mattapoisett land trust properties for hikes in the woods and along the seashores. A popular visit is to Parsons Reserve in Dartmouth for the field of daffodils. They do charge a fee that goes towards the DNRT organization.
PLAN A LOW-KEY COASTAL DAY
Check out some new beaches for you next beach day. Most do require parking permits so perhaps check out before the summer season begins. Gooseberry Island in Westport is a great one to check out and does not require a permit for parking. Make it a day trip to Little Compton to Gooseberry berry. A few closer beaches worth checking out are West Island in Fairhaven and Shell Point Beach in Onset. Along the Mattapoisett Rail Trail is Goodspeed Island, a great local option for shell hunting and a picnic day.
Pack a reusable picnic, bring a blanket, and spend a few hours by the water. Walk, sit, read no agenda needed. However it’s always fun to walk the beach and gather shells, sea glass and drift wood for use later on in decorating or crafts.
Sometimes the best way to appreciate where you live is simply to slow down and be in it.
Earth Week doesn’t have to be about doing everything differently—it’s about noticing what’s already around you and making a few small choices that feel good.
And often, those small shifts are what make a home—and a community—feel even more meaningful.
Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor
Licensed in MA & RI
508-742-7316 cell
Bold Real Estate Inc.
45 Main Street
Mattapoisett, MA 02739