People walking along a coastal path beside the water on Martha’s Vineyard during a Vineyard Conservation Society annual event

Annual Events

Events Menu

Winter Walks

The VCS Winter Walks are an annual series of inspiring and educational explorations of some of the most beautiful locations on the Island. The guided walks weave together ecological, cultural, and conservation history with a chance to get outdoors during the off-season. Exploring both private and public land, these events bring together our members and the public alongside local ecologists and conservationists, strengthening our collective knowledge and connection to the Island. The Winter Walks are free and open to the public, but because we sometimes must limit the total number of attendees based on the route, registration is required.

Walks are typically held on the second Saturday of the month from November through March, begin at 10 am unless otherwise noted, and last about two hours.

Sign up for our conservation almanac to stay informed for the 2026/27 season.

“This story is not necessarily new. It is the growth and development story the Vineyard has been telling for years. But we are starting to see the results of a feared tipping point. Ponds that are unsafe to swim in, some towns where wastewater and drinking water infrastructure are at or beyond capacity. These were the unimaginable realities of an overdeveloped off-Island world that were described with caution in that very first VCS founding letter, but they are now here on our shores.”

~Excerpt from VCS Director Samantha Look reflecting on 60 years of advocacy.

Annual Meeting

The VCS Annual Meeting brings together our members, board, partners, and community leaders to reflect on the past year’s conservation efforts and to chart priorities for the year ahead. Highlights include updates on our initiatives, stewardship successes, and educational outreach programs, as well as recognition of dedicated volunteers and members. The meeting also provides a forum for discussing emerging environmental challenges facing the Vineyard, from development pressures to climate resilience. At VCS, we believe in being a voice for the Island, and this event gives us an opportunity to highlight the ways our community gives our mission strength and direction.

The event is free and open to the public.

Sign up for our conservation almanac for an invitation to our 2026 Annual Meeting.

Earth Day Beach Clean-up

The VCS Earth Day Beach Clean-up is one of the Vineyard’s favorite Earth Day traditions—neighbors, families, and local groups teaming up to care for our coastline, one beach at a time. It’s easy to join: pick a beach, show up, and help collect debris with support from on-site volunteers.