Geography-Land

Situated north of Connecticut and south of Vermont, Berkshire County in Western Massachusetts is typical New England country. Gently rolling hills, that offer beautiful vistas round every corner, are criss-crossed by hiking trails and country roads that meander delightfully through the splendid natural setting.

Geologically referred to as the Berkshire Taconic Landscape, this region consists of relatively intact forests that still sustain living ecosystems such as wetlands. The mountains in the region are clustered together to form a high plateau rather than being spread out into soaring peaks and deep valleys. The lowest areas in the region are 700 feet above sea level, with the highest areas soaring upwards of 3,000 feet above sea level. It took more than a billion years for this ideal setting to be created.

Mt Greylock (3,491 feet), the highest peak, rises colossus-like above the surrounding landscape and can be seen from five states.

The Berkshires abound in limestone formations, thus accounting for the abundant marble available in the region. The rich soil in the area is a remnant of the glaciation that once characterized the region. Rich, moist, loamy soil covers the lowlands, while dry, thin soil covers the mountains.

This excellent calcium-rich hydrological system sustains life in the Berkshires. It ensuring plenty of rivers, streams, lakes and ponds that support a wide variety of life. Wetlands are a characteristic feature of the Berkshires and abound in plant and animal life.

Rich soil and abundant water is what created the rich farming heritage of the Berkshires. The economy once depended on the varied local produce of farming communities that dotted the region Though farming has declined in the past few decades, efforts are on to bring about a revival of viable farm units.

The first human settlement by Native Americans made its appearance in the Berkshires 4,600 years ago.

Total Area: 931 sq. miles

Density: 144.9 persons/sq. mile