Who We Are
The Vineyard Conservation Society is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to preserving the environment of Martha’s Vineyard through advocacy, education, and the protection of the Island’s land and water.
Originally formed in 1965 by a small group concerned with the preservation of natural habitats, VCS today embraces a broad view of conservation. In addition to traditional land protection, addressing the Island’s current and future environmental challenges increasingly requires an informed and mobilized public.
Through public education, local political advocacy, and legal defense work, we will continue to promote community action in pursuit of a healthy environment and sustainable future.
Our Mission
To protect the Island’s land and water, inspire environmental stewardship, and advocate for a sustainable future for Martha’s Vineyard.
Nearly Six Decades of Stewardship
Since 1965, VCS has grown from a small group of passionate Islanders into a community-wide movement, balancing science, policy, and education to preserve Martha’s Vineyard’s natural heritage.
Member support is what makes our work possible.
If you are not yet a member, please consider joining today.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
We acknowledge that we are living on the land of the Wampanoag people, who originate from this land, have cared for the land and the surrounding waters for at least 12,000 years, and still call it home today. Although commonly referred to as Martha’s Vineyard, this Island has a much older Wampanoag name: Noëpe.
Through this acknowledgment, we recognize Wampanoag culture, creativity, stewardship and perspective. We honor Wampanoag perseverance in the face of colonization and displacement. We commit to the responsibility of understanding this history and building restorative relationships and practices with the Wampanoag people of Noëpe and with this land.