Q & A with Department of Fish & Game Commissioner Tom O’Shea

We sat down with Commissioner Tom O'Shea to learn more about Massachusetts' new biodiversity goals. 

Commissioner Tom O’Shea leads the Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game, the mission of which is to conserve the Commonwealth’s abundant fisheries and wildlife, as well as the habitats that support them, for the benefit and enjoyment of all people. Here, he shares why the agency is developing nation-leading biodiversity conservation goals for 2030, 2040, and 2050, as called for by Governor Maura Healey’s Executive Order No. 618, and what that means for Massachusetts. 

Q: Why is Massachusetts’ biodiversity so crucial?  

A: Biodiversity is the extraordinary abundance and variety of life—including all the species, habitats, and complex interactions that make up the astonishing web of life. In Massachusetts, biodiversity anchors our history and culture; sustains our health, well-being, and economy; and enriches our quality of life. Biodiversity is also a key climate solution—restoring nature will build resilience to flooding, drought, and extreme heat, as well as store and sequester carbon. Despite its critical value, biodiversity is in crisis, both globally and right here in Massachusetts. More than 450 species are threatened, and hundreds more are at risk. Habitat loss, pollution of our lands and waters, and invasive species—all amplified by climate change—threaten our collective future.  

Q: What will developing biodiversity conservation goals accomplish?  

A: This is an unprecedented opportunity—never before have we seen this level of attention, urgency, and enthusiasm for biodiversity conservation. By setting ambitious biodiversity goals for 2050, we will build momentum, capacity, and coordination to halt and reverse species loss and rebuild resilient ecosystems for generations to come. This initiative will accelerate our collective work to conserve key habitats, restore free-flowing rivers and wildlife migration corridors, protect crucial salt marshes and wetlands, sustain farms and fisheries, and connect all people with nature.   

Q: How does equitable access to nature play into biodiversity?  

A: We know biodiversity is essential for human health and well-being and flourishing communities. Yet underserved and environmental justice communities have traditionally not had equal access to the life-giving benefits of nature, nor equal opportunity to engage in its stewardship. We can use this initiative to create new, biodiverse green spaces in every neighborhood, support community-led and Indigenous-led projects, and grow education and outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly in urban areas. 

Q: How can regular folks/organizations like Mass Audubon aid in this effort?  

A: We all have a role to play—solving the interconnected crises of climate change and biodiversity loss will take all of us. Key partners like Mass Audubon will play an instrumental role in advancing the ambitious goals and strategies we set. All of us can make a measurable difference and contribute to this global effort. This movement starts with you, right in your community, your backyard. Get involved in local efforts, advocate for change, and educate those around you.   

Explore the State's Biodiversity Goals

Fostering a robust landscape of biodiverse plants and animals strengthens Massachusetts' resilience to environmental changes now and in the future. Learn more about the state’s biodiversity goals to find out how you can support this new initiative.

Learn More