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Esplanade Association Mission

The Esplanade Association is a nonprofit organization that works to revitalize and enhance the Charles River Esplanade, sustain its natural green space, and build community in the park by providing educational, cultural, and recreational programs for everyone. Working in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Esplanade Association is dedicated to improving the experiences of the millions of visitors who enjoy Boston’s iconic riverside park.

We achieve this through:

Ecological Restoration & Stewardship

We improve the biological diversity and beauty of the natural environment on the Charles River Esplanade. Our horticulture and stewardship staff utilize the best management practices in land care to improve soil health, manage invasive plants, expand native plantings, and care for our urban tree canopy. Since 2012, we have developed and implemented a compost program, planted hundreds of native perennials, shrubs, and trees, and created new initiatives to raise awareness about conservation and restoration. We also manage environmental threats to increase the health and resiliency of the Charles River Esplanade. In 2015, the Esplanade became a certified wildlife habitat through the National Wildlife Federation.

Community Engagement & Education

The Esplanade Association offers a variety of free and inclusive programming, events, and volunteer opportunities to the greater-Boston community to engage people’s minds and bodies on the Esplanade. Every year, the Esplanade Association brings thousands of children, students, and families to the Park for free exercise classes, day camps, and educational events. Our Volunteer Program invites conscientious citizens to take part in keeping the Park beautiful and healthy while educating them about the Park’s history and critical role in this urban landscape.

Advocacy

We advocate on behalf of the Park to ensure that the land and natural environment is protected for generations to come by partnering and working with donors, legislators, and other organizations.

Investment

Through capital projects and campaigns, we restore and revitalize structures and landscapes, reactivating underutilized and fragile parts of the Park.

Vision

A thriving, safe, accessible park where people come together to share, explore and enjoy nature and community.