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Environmental Justice at the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)

All people have a right to be protected from environmental hazards and to live in and enjoy a clean and healthy environment.

As the steward of one of the largest and most diverse park systems in the country, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) works to nurture the vital connection between people and the environment while ensuring its properties are safe, welcoming, and accessible to all residents and visitors of Massachusetts. Through the agency’s Environmental Justice Strategy, DCR is removing barriers to outdoor recreation, expanding language access, strengthening public engagement, and investing in historically underserved communities so everyone can benefit from the natural, cultural, and recreational resources we manage and feel a sense of belonging in our open spaces and public lands.

This page can be translated into multiple languages by clicking the “Language” button on the top right of the page.

What is Environmental Justice?

Environmental Justice (EJ) is based on the principle that all people have a right to be protected from environmental hazards and to live in and enjoy a clean and healthful environment. EJ is the equal protection and meaningful involvement of all people with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies and the equitable distribution of environmental benefits. Massachusetts defines EJ Populations in the state's Environmental Justice Policy, as well as Burdened Areas in the new MassEnviroScreen tool.

Important Links

2024 DCR Environmental Justice Strategy 
2026 DCR Language Access Plan 
Request a Translation of Mass DCR Document 
MassEnviroScreen Story Map 
MassEnviroScreen Assessment Tool 

DCR Programs in Environmental Justice Communities

Our focus extends beyond providing equitable access to green spaces—we are actively integrating climate resiliency and environmental stewardship into our programs and policies. Below are just some of the ways DCR is working to promote Environmental Justice and ensure that our services are accessible to all.

Greening the Gateway Cities Program  DCR Summer Nights Program  Universal Access Program  Community Wood Bank Program  Borrow a DCR Park Pass from Library  DCR Park Passport Challenge  Commission on the Future of Metropolitan Beaches  DCR Project Shade  Charles River Task Force on Equitable River Access  Steering Committee to Build Forest Stewardship for a Just and Resilient Future  Better Beaches Summer 2026 Events 

Funding Opportunities Across EEA Related to Environmental Justice

Environment & Climate One Stop (ECO One Stop)  Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs Grants Management System  Environmental Justice Fund Opportunities at the Attorney General's Office  MassDEP Air Sensor Grant (Deadline December 31, 2026) 

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