PETERSHAM – The town of Petersham and North Hatfield-based Conservation Works are co-hosting the Petersham Environmental Expo this Saturday, April 6, from noon-4 p.m. at Petersham Town Hall, 1 South Main St. According to the organization’s web site, it “…work(s) with public, private, and non-profit landowners to enhance land conservation and ecological resiliency.”

The expo is a step toward preparing a state-certified Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Plan for Petersham. The goal is to identify Petersham’s strengths, as well as areas of vulnerability, and potential resources to help the community prepare for weather and storm-related impacts and related emergencies that are the result of climate change. It will also prioritize projects that will facilitate preparedness efforts, and qualify the town for additional state funding.

Andrew Smith, the state’s Greater Connecticut River Valley MVP Coordinator, will provide opening remarks. He will be followed at 1 p.m. by a Petersham Emergency Management panel discussion, which will include a question-and-answer period with Petersham Police Chief Peter Buck, Fire Chief Bob Legare and Animal Control Officer Deb Bachrach.

Conservation Works will provide an exhibit with representatives who will speak on climate concerns and emergency preparedness. The exhibit will also include a survey seeking written responses, climate information data and forecasted trends specific to Petersham.

Large-format printed maps will be available for pinpointing areas in town which are of greatest concern.

The Northeast Organic Farmers Association will provide information on pollinators, community composting, invasive plants, and biochar solutions.

Biochar is charcoal created from plant matter and stored in the soil to help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. There will also be an electric bike display, and a sample do-it-yourself “winsert” weatherization window model and instructions.

Petersham Memorial Library will display books on climate and sustainable living. A solar array will be displayed, along with miniature electrified house models, and an induction cooktop display.

For additional information on Saturday’s event, go to www.townofpetersham.org.