Our core purpose is to foster public support for the Alewife Reservation, an irreplaceable wetland and forest reserve located in the heart of an urban landscape. The organization’s professional wildlife assessments contain over 90 species of birds, several hundred plant species (including the endangered  Gentiana Andrewsii or Bottle Gentian), and 20 mammal species such as deer, fox, coyote and mink, all in 115 acres, some land under intense pressure for development. About 7 acres of trees have already been destroyed.  By working with volunteers, elected officials, and community groups, we draw attention to a value of this unique ecological resource, including the environmental services it provides as a floodplain habitat, in order to preserve and protect the area. Our four areas of focus include protecting wildlife habitat, preserving the watershed through water quality improvements, requiring best management practices, universal access, and educational development in all of the above endeavors. Our vision and purpose for the Alewife Reservation in all activities including the FAR summer ecology camp is a protected ecological oasis, preserving local biodiversity and providing a highly-accessible wilderness area to inspire and educate future generations.