HAMPDEN, Mass. (WWLP) - Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary in Hampden will be getting some improvements over the next year to enhance its environment for both wildlife and visitors. Mass Audubon announced on Monday that in 2025 and beyond, the trails and surrounding habitats will undergo a series of projects to restore ecosystems within the sanctuary. Forest Park Zoo opens Saturday for 2025 season The entrance area of the sanctuary near the parking lot has become overgrown due to the non-native, invasive Autumn Olive plant. The Autumn Olive threatens native wildlife and can lead to habitat decline, and during this project, Mass Audubon plans to remove the plant and other invasive species to allow the area to thrive. Courtesy of Mass Audubon. Recently, there have been frequent trail closures due to hundreds of hazardous trees blocking paths due to an infestation of Spongy Moths. Mass Audubon said that teams will be working to clear the dead trees to improve trail safety and visitor experience. Mass Audubon said that they also have the opportunity to revitalize an uncommon habitat type through tree-clearing. The Pitch Pine-Oak Heathland is considered a top conservation priority in Massachusetts, and active restoration efforts of this ecosystem can improve the health of the forest and a diverse wildlife population. Eastern Whip-poor-will. Courtesy of Mass Audubon. Animals that would benefit from enhancing the Pitch Pine-Oak Heathland include birds of conservation concern in the state, like the Eastern Towhee and the Eastern Whip-poor-will. As these projects begin, Mass Audubon said that heavy equipment will be in use at times, and Laughing Brook will occasionally need to close. These projects are intended to provide a more resilient forest and safer trails for everyone. Local News Headlines Healey warns researchers leaving, students may stay away Mass. woman indicted for allegedly posing as caregiver to steal from elderly victims Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary to undergo restoration efforts Winter Weather Advisory: Freezing rain through Sunday morning WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less