SGAR-free campuses in Waltham

September 5, 2025

SWW End of summer update September 5th, 2025

We’re happy to report that Waltham’s two universities, Bentley and Brandeis, which between them cover a good deal of green space and border on much more, have both stopped using SGAR poisons on their campuses. Bentley University clarified to us last spring, after several contacts, that they do not currently use SGARs in their bait boxes. More recently, Brandeis University agreed to stop using SGARs on their campus, after lobbying from SWW and from student groups. This is an especially welcome development given that several dead hawks, as well as a dying coyote pup, all found on the Brandeis campus, had tested positive for SGAR poisoning.  (See the  relevant article in the Waltham Times.)

SWW has since reached out to Brandeis students (some of whom have joined our email list!) regarding the importance of proper trash disposal and management for keeping rats at bay by depriving them of ready food sources. Part of this effort has been to have Brandeis students to take the “CAMPUS CHAMPION PLEDGE” (see the picture).

Recent Posts

By N/A N/A April 8, 2026
Join us for our free, annual training for volunteer trail stewards that covers native/invasive plants and trail sustainability. Cohosted with City of Waltham Ranger Adam Green, the workshop features classroom and “in the field” instruction.
By N/A N/A March 20, 2026
About twenty people enjoyed tasty food, delicious drinks, and exciting ping pong at Craft Food Hall to celebrate the Vernal Equinox. This was our first event at CFH, and we'll be sure to schedule another one there in the future. Please join us!
By N/A N/A March 20, 2026
25 folks and one dog celebrated the Vernal Equinox with a chilly walk at Prospect Hill Park. We met at Craft Food Hall and trekked on the "alternate" New Year's Day hike route on the park's west-side to the vista at Little Prospect.
By N/A N/A March 6, 2026
Over 60 nature lovers of all ages came to Christ Church for a program with Rick Roth the Snake Man and the Cape Ann Vernal Pool Team . We were introduced to many snakes found in New England and the world. Members of the team walked through the audience with them so everyone could see up close and take photos. Afterwards, brave people who wanted to hold the legless reptiles were given that opportunity. Many thanks to the Waltham Cultural Council for supporting this event!
Picture of Hooded Merganser Male
By N/A N/A February 28, 2026
EVENT CANCELLED due to path conditions, not weather Join us for walk along the Charles River trail in search of dazzling waterfowl visiting from northern climes, as well as our resident birds. Possible sightings include Bufflehead, Ring-necked, and Golden eye ducks, Hooded and Common mergansers, Great Blue herons, Red-tailed hawks, and Bald eagles! Bring cameras and binoculars. Registration is required and space is limited. Event is now CANCELLED.
By N/A N/A February 24, 2026
Help raise money for saving land, building trails, and outfitting stewards while enjoying food and drinks from The Chateau!
By N/A N/A February 20, 2026
Clean up is now FULL. Sign up will go to a wait list for the 27th anniversary of this special event and help remove litter or invasive plants from along the banks of the Charles River!
February 11, 2026
If you weren't able to attend this event you can check out this slideshow to learn more about Making Pollinator Gardens Easy !
By N/A N/A February 1, 2026
Help WLT earn a little money by enjoying food and drinks at this casual, sports-themed restaurant!
By N/A N/A January 31, 2026
To learn more about these fascinating animals, essential to life on earth, join us for a fun and educational program!