Conservation group director Mark Robinson urges preserving Cape Cod land, calls out clear‑cutting for some solar projects

Mark Robinson, executive director of the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trust, told the Mashpee Women’s Club that preserving open space is essential to maintaining Cape Cod’s character and recreational opportunities.

Robinson traced conservation efforts over the past century, citing early shore reservations and philanthropic land gifts, and noted the 1961 designation of the Cape Cod National Seashore as a turning point. "We do need to remember that, particularly here in Mashpee, there were people preserving open space long before any of us were here," he said.

Robinson warned that recent development practices are eroding the landscape. He questioned the practice of clear‑cutting forest for ground‑mounted solar arrays and pointed to large new housing developments and road building: "Why are we cutting down a forest to make solar arrays when we have a lot of parking lots that don't have canopy yet?" he asked, urging consideration of alternatives that protect trees and public recreation land.

He cited local examples of philanthropy and preserved parcels — including gifts that created town reservations and donations around Mashpee River and neighboring areas — as models for balancing public access with protecting natural resources.

Robinson’s presentation outlined a mix of historical context and contemporary land-use concerns but did not include a vote or motion by the club. The talk was presented as an informational program for the membership and concluded with an invitation to discuss conservation priorities further at future meetings.