Juried Exhibition at Da Vinci Art Alliance

MEDIA, Pa., June 25, 2025 – Natural Lands, the region’s oldest and largest land conservation nonprofit, is thrilled to announce a call for submissions for Art & Connect. This juried exhibition is organized by Natural Lands’ NextGen Council and hosted in partnership with the Da Vinci Art Alliance in Philadelphia. The exhibition will take place this November and is open to artists aged 18 and older, working in all mediums and from all backgrounds.

Art & Connect invites artists to explore and express their personal connections to the natural world—particularly the landscapes and wildlife of eastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. Special consideration will be given to works inspired by Natural Lands’ conserved open spaces, which include 40+ nature preserves, one public garden, and nearly 500 privately owned properties under conservation restrictions.
From painting to poetry to sculpture, Art & Connect welcomes all original forms of creative expression. Emerging artists and seasoned creators alike are invited to this opportunity to share how nature moves them.

• Submission deadline: Friday, August 1, 2025
• Notification of acceptance: Friday, August 15, 2025
• Exhibit dates: November 13–16, 2025
• Opening reception: Thursday, November 13, 6:30–8:30 PM
• Location: Da Vinci Art Alliance, 704 Catherine St, Philadelphia, PA
• Artwork drop-off: November 6–9, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM

This exhibition is hosted by Natural Lands’ NextGen Council, a group of passionate advocates in their 20s, 30s, and 40s working to help Natural Lands reach a younger, more diverse audience.

“Art has the power to deepen our connection to nature. We are excited to invite people to reflect the beauty of our incredible local landscapes through their art and immerse themselves in nature this summer,” said Jarrodd Davis, chair of the NextGen Council’s event committee. “This exhibition is a celebration of creativity, conservation, and community, which we look forward to bringing to new audiences in the city, to inspire more to enjoy the nature that’s all around us.”

For more information and to submit your work, visit www.natlands.org/art.

Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone. As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 136,600 acres, including 40+ nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,600 acres. About five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all.

Please note: “Natural Lands” is the organization’s official operating name and should be used instead of its legal designation (Natural Lands Trust, Inc.).

Media Inquiries:
Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications
610-353-5587 ext. 267

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA, Pa., June 17, 2025 – Natural Lands announced a massive tree-planting effort was completed recently at the organization’s Peacedale Preserve in Landenberg, Chester County, Pennsylvania. The conservation non-profit planted 11,020 native species along waterways and across 36 acres of former fields. Over time, the seedlings will mature to a diverse forest, offering habitat for wildlife and improve water quality.

“It’s really quite remarkable how much of a positive impact planting trees along streams has on water quality,” said Gary Gimbert, vice president of stewardship for Natural Lands. “The creeks that travel through Peacedale Preserve flow to Big Elk Creek, onward to Elk River, and empty into Chesapeake Bay. About 2,700 plant and animal species live in the Chesapeake Bay Estuary. And fishermen harvest around 500 million pounds of seafood from the Bay every year.”

He added, “We are committed to creating and maintaining a minimum 100-foot buffer along all waterways that run through our nature preserves. As they mature, the native trees we’ve planted at Peacedale will help filter out sediment and other pollutants, reduce erosion, and slow stormwater to prevent flooding.”

In 1973, the estate of Charles Foote donated his farm to Natural Lands. Due to limited access and funding, it was an isolated parcel with no trails.

In 2009, Natural Lands purchased an adjoining 133-acres from a developer that had received approval for subdivision but—due to the economic downturn—decided to sell the land instead. Later that same year, and again in 2011, the organization acquired additional neighboring properties, bringing the preserve to its present size of 222 acres.

When Europeans first explored Pennsylvania, trees covered 90 percent of the territory. Though the Native Americans who had lived in the region for thousands of years did clear some land for hunting and agriculture, famed naturalist John Bartram still found forests so thick it was “as if the sun had never shown on the ground since the creation.” But by 1850, millions of acres had been cleared for farming, timber, and firewood.

In addition to improving water quality, the planting project at Peacedale Preserve will re-establish forest cover and improve wildlife habitat. In particular, woodlands are essential for migratory songbirds—such as Scarlet Tanager and Wood Thrush—that rely on the dense forest for food and protection from the weather and predators.

The seedlings are a variety of native species, including red maple, silver maple, hornbeam, redbud, tuliptree, blackgum, sycamore, white oak, swamp white oak, pin oak, chestnut oak, elderberry, and flowering dogwood. Planted at a density of 303 trees per acre, the seedlings are protected from deer by five-foot-tall tree shelters that photodegrade over time. The trees and shrubs were planted in 12-foot rows, wide enough to allow preserve stewardship staff to mow between them, reducing competition from other vegetation until the seedlings have matured.

Funding for this project was provided by the E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation; the Conservancy Grant Program, Commissioners of Chester County, Pennsylvania; and donors to Natural Lands’ preserve restoration fund.

Natural Lands plans addition large-scale reforestation projects at several other nature preserves under their care, including Diabase Farm Preserve (New Hope, PA), Sadsbury Woods Preserve (Parkesburg, PA), and Stroud Preserve (West Chester, PA). By the close of 2025, the organization will have planted 22,540 trees and shrubs on 75.5 acres in just one year.

Before and after drone video here: Planting a Forest: Peacedale Preserve Tree Planting Before & After

Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone.  As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 136,600 acres, including 40+ nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,600 acres. About five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all.

Please note: “Natural Lands” is the organization’s official operating name and should be used instead of its legal designation (Natural Lands Trust, Inc.).

Media Inquiries:

Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications
610-353-5587 ext. 267

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

First Conservation Success of Carbon County Open Space Grant Program

MEDIA, Pa., June 9, 2025 – Carbon County, PA, and Natural Lands announced today completion of the first conservation project to come to fruition through the county’s new Open Space Grant Program. Natural Lands purchased a once-vulnerable, 72-acre wooded property in East Penn Township using grant funds from the program and immediately transferred it to the PA Game Commission as an addition to Game Lands No. 217. The property will be open to the public for recreation and hunting and will remain preserved forever.

Known as the Recica property, the land consists of mature hardwood forest that lies within the state-designated Kittatinny Ridge Conservation Landscape and the Audubon-designated Kittatinny Ridge Important Bird Area.

The Kittatinny Ridge, which means “endless mountain” in Lenape, is the largest forested landscape in southcentral and eastern Pennsylvania, stretching 185 miles across 360,000 acres. It offers migration and stopover habitat for millions of songbirds and raptors each spring and fall. Tens-of-thousands of birds of prey—including the state-endangered Northern Goshawk—travel the ridge, using rising thermals to aid them in their long flights.

The upland forest of the ridge offers a year-round home to Pennsylvania’s state bird, the Ruffed Grouse, and is designated as a Global Important Bird Area because of its globally significant migratory route for Cerulean Warblers. From hummingbirds and warblers to raptors and game birds, the Kittatinny Ridge is a crucial landscape for more than 140 resident and migrant bird species

The forested habitat naturally cleans and cools the air, filters pollutants from the water, and helps control flooding during storms.

“Nearly two-thirds of the Kittatinny Ridge are privately owned by thousands of individual landowners,” said Jack Stefferud, senior advisor of land protection for Natural Lands. “What’s more, the region includes nine of the top 20 fastest growing counties in the state, making it vulnerable to both residential and commercial development. Thanks to the voters, this project is just the beginning of preserving land in Carbon County.”

During the November 2022 election, an astounding 83 percent of voters supported the Carbon County Water, Farms, and Land referendum, which established a conservation program to preserve open space, clean water, and wildlife habitat. It allows Carbon County to borrow up to $10 million.

“The Recica acquisition is a great first Carbon County Open Space Preservation project. The pristine outdoors are not only important to Carbon County residents’ quality of life, but also have key economic benefits for the county as a whole,” said Carbon County Commissioner Mike Sofranko. “In Carbon County, outdoor recreation—from hiking and biking to hunting and fishing—is something that brings families together. Being able to preserve these spaces for generations to come is something that the Commissioners are grateful to be a part of.”

In addition to funds provided by the Open Space Grant Program, Commissioners of Carbon County, Pennsylvania, the PA Game Commission provided support.

“Not only does this property further conserve and protect the forested Kittatinny Ridge, an important migratory corridor, but also creates an additional buffer to the existing State Game Lands 217, protecting it from development and creation of safety zones, while providing additional acreage for hunting and trapping,” said Steve Ferreri, southeast region land management supervisor for the PA Game Commission. “Managing wildlife habitats, for all species, is at the core of what the Game Commission does, and the partnership with Natural Lands continues to prove invaluable for those efforts.”

“As a lifelong outdoorsman and supporter of Pennsylvania’s rich hunting and conservation traditions, I’m proud to have played a role in protecting this land,” said Chad Fritzinger of Koehler Marvin Realty, representing the landowner. “Helping transfer it into the care of the Game Commission means it will be enjoyed by generations of hunters, hikers, and nature lovers to come.”

Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone.  As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 136,600 acres, including 40+ nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,600 acres. About five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all.

Please note: “Natural Lands” is the organization’s official operating name and should be used instead of its legal designation (Natural Lands Trust, Inc.).

Media Inquiries:

Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications
Natural Lands
610-353-5587 ext. 267

Anna Shigo, Open Space Coordinator
Carbon County Office of Planning and Development
570-325-3671 ext. 4466

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA, Pa., May 13, 2025 – Natural Lands announced today the permanent preservation of a small but important property in Lynn Township, Lehigh County. The forested tract will protect scenic views from the Appalachian Trail and offers essential habitat for birds and other wildlife.

“The property is located within the state-designated Kittatinny Ridge Conservation Landscape, which is a globally Important Bird Area that includes 160 miles of the Appalachian Trail,” said Jack Stefferud, senior advisor of land protection.

While only 7.27 acres in size, the parcel was an in-holding of the 8,513-acre PA State Game Lands No. 217—essentially a vulnerable hole in a forested landscape. Were it to have been developed, it would have fractured the contiguous forest cover that is so essential to neotropical migratory songbirds like Scarlet Tanager, Wood Thrush, and Cerulean Warbler, among others. These colorful birds—all of which are species of concern—migrate between the northern and southern hemispheres, breeding in the northern regions and wintering in the tropics. Researchers believe the greatest draw to neotropical migrants is the abundance of insects available in our region in spring and summer, insects that are present because of native tree species in forests like those of the Kittatinny Ridge.

Natural Lands purchased the property and transferred it to the PA Game Commission.

“The Game Commission is pleased to partner with Natural Lands to conserve forested habitat in the Kittatinny Ridge Conservation Landscape along the Blue Mountain,” said Tim Haydt, bureau director for Habitat Management. “This area of Pennsylvania is an important wildlife habitat connectivity corridor with State Game Lands comprising a large portion of protected lands. The parcel will also create additional access for State Game Lands No. 217 users via Gun Club Road.”

He added, “Natural Lands is adept at leveraging land acquisition grants to help the Game Commission purchase properties in the southeast part of Pennsylvania where prices are often out of reach. This effort is appreciated by hunters, trappers, and wildlife enthusiasts throughout the Commonwealth.”

Natural Lands received funding to underwrite this conservation project from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, which seeks to accelerate the pace and scale of conservation within the Appalachian Trail Landscape; Constellation Energy Generation through the Schuylkill River Restoration Fund and the Delaware River Basin Commission; the PA Game Commission; and Dana and Linnea Warren.

“The newly conserved land is less than half a mile from the Appalachian Trail, and its protection will help preserve a forest block that connects critical habitat for wildlife, ensures the Trail’s scenic quality, and ultimately safeguards that A.T. Experience,” said Katie Hess, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Pennsylvania conservation landscape director. “Supporting local conservation actions by our partners like Natural Lands is essential to keeping the trail and its landscape alive.”

Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone.  As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 136,600 acres, including 40+ nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,600 acres. About five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all. natlands.org.

Please note: “Natural Lands” is the organization’s official operating name and should be used instead of its legal designation (Natural Lands Trust, Inc.).

Media Inquiries:

Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications
610-353-5587 ext. 267

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA, Pa., May 7, 2025 – Natural Lands announced today the permanent preservation of several wooded properties in Haycock and East Rockhill Townships, Bucks County, totaling 30 acres. The properties were all inholdings within PA State Game Lands and have now been transferred to the state.

Two parcels totaling about 28 acres (“Grace Briarwood” and “Grace Sawmill”) were transferred to Game Lands No. 157, and a nearly two-acre parcel (“Grace Rockhill Mountain”) was added to Game Lands No. 139.

“While individually each of these parcels are small, the conservation impact of protecting them is huge,” said Jack Stefferud, senior advisor of land protection. “These properties were all inholdings, pockets of privately owned land within a larger landscape of state game lands. Were they to have been developed, the trees would have been felled to make way for driveways, buildings, and lawns, destroying the unbroken forest.”

Dense forest provides essential habitat to wildlife, particularly migratory songbirds such as Scarlet Tanager and Wood Thrush. In fact, these birds—along with 89 other bird species and hundreds of mammals, amphibians, fish, reptiles, and invertebrates—depend on Pennsylvania’s natural areas for their survival. The Commonwealth plays a key role in sustaining these Pennsylvania Responsibility Species’ global security by hosting at least 10 percent of their North American population or encompassing at least 25 percent of their North American range.

Forests that are fragmented into smaller plots by roads and developments favor predators that thrive along the edge of the woods, such as raccoons, snakes, Blue Jays, domestic cats, and Brown-headed Cowbirds. These predators impact the survival of songbirds and other vulnerable species face when added to challenges like climate change and habitat loss.

Said Tim Haydt, PA Game Commission bureau director for habitat management, “Acquiring these tracts eliminates indentures and adds additional forested habitat to the state game lands in Bucks County. Through our partnership with Natural Land, we are able to protect important wooded wildlife habitat for current and future generations of Pennsylvanians.”

To purchase and transfer the properties, Natural Lands used funds from the PA Game Commission and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Recreation and Conservation (Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund – LT).

“These properties provide critical continuous forest cover for migratory birds and native wildlife that depend on heavily wooded habitat to survive,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “Thank you to Natural Lands for supporting this important conservation work and thank you to the Game Commission for protecting these areas of critical wildlife habitat from development in rapidly expanding southeastern Pennsylvania.”

Additional financial support came from the Highlands Conservation Act (administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service).

Two other properties—one in Nockamixon Township (“Grace Nockamixon”) and another in Haycock Township (“Grace Toprock”)—are scheduled for purchase and transfer to State Game Lands No. 56 and No. 157, respectively, but are held up pending the release of federal funds.

Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone.  As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 136,600 acres, including 40+ nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,600 acres. About five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all.

Please note: “Natural Lands” is the organization’s official operating name and should be used instead of its legal designation (Natural Lands Trust, Inc.).

Media Inquiries:

Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications
610-353-5587 ext. 267

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Enhancement details and temporary closures announced

Coatesville, PA – April 24, 2025 – The much-anticipated revitalization of Ash Park, located in the heart of the City of Coatesville, is taking shape as bids for construction opened on April 7. The City expects to award the contract by the end of May with construction commencing in June on Phases I and II of the multi-year Ash Park Master Plan.

Situated between Third and Fourth Streets in Coatesville, Ash Park covers 9.3 acres and serves residents over a three-mile radius of the City.

“Since being founded nearly 100 years ago, Ash Park has served as the community’s most visited park for residents and visitors to congregate,” says Linda Lavender Norris, Coatesville City Council President. “It’s taken wonderful collaboration efforts to bring this impactful project to life. This transformation will serve to bolster the joy Ash Park brings to families and especially our City’s youth for years to come.”

With the design phase completed, significant development will occur over a four- to six-month period and include:

• Expanded play and recreation areas
• Renovated basketball courts including a new third court
• A vibrant splash pad to replace the pool, which has been non-operational for over a decade
• A new common area for gatherings
• Landscaping and stormwater infrastructure improvements
• New pavilion with seating area and restrooms

Future Phases III – V will address upgrades to the soccer field and playground and the construction of a new picnic-area pavilion.

“The redevelopment of Ash Park has been a major undertaking, and we are appreciative of the funding and the collaboration, vision and input provided by dedicated partner organizations, City officials and community members who helped bring this project to fruition,” says Tiniera Turner-Green, Coatesville City Council member representing the second ward. “Ash Park has always served as a bright spot and the heart of our City, and to see it come back to life means a lot to our community. Parks and green spaces are vital for a city to thrive, and we look forward to maintaining Ash Park as a wonderful and vibrant community hub.”

During construction, the soccer field, playground and pavilion will remain open. In preparation for the upgrades, safety fencing will be erected in mid-June around the pool area, basketball courts and horseshoe pits, which will remain closed until construction is complete. “While residents look forward to the addition of a third basketball court, the temporary closure will affect summer basketball activities at the park,” says Roberta Cosentino, Coatesville Assistant City Manager. “We are working with local organizations to help provide alternative locations and activities this summer. The rest of the park remains open, and we look forward to the first two newly renovated phases of the park that will serve as a lively community centerpiece and provide enjoyment for generations to come.”

In 2022, the City collaborated with Natural Lands to prepare the Ash Park Master Plan, and the project received multi-million-dollar funding and support from the PA Department of Conservation of Natural Resources (DCNR), Community Project Funding from U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan and U.S. Senator Bob Casey, and Keystone Communities funding from State Senator Carolyn Comitta. During initial planning phases, MCDC (Movement Community Development Corporation) began fundraising efforts for the Ash Park water feature, with the help of Senator Casey and State Representative Dan Williams. The project was also funded in part by the Chester County Preservation Partnership program and Natural Lands. Andrew Mears, Associate Vice President at Johnson Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT), serves as chief project engineer.

About the City of Coatesville:
The first and only city in Chester County, Coatesville is home to 13,300 neighbors and is undergoing economic and cultural revitalization that integrates innovation, education, and smart economic development. The City is fueled by a lively entrepreneurial spirit, rooted in its rich historic past. Founded in 1915, Coatesville’s Historic District features many resources listed on the National Register of Historic Places, coupled with vibrant new restaurants and small businesses in the downtown area. The City is home to the National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum and the nationally recognized Coatesville Invitational Vintage Grand Prix. www.coatesville.org

Media Contact for the City of Coatesville:
Ellen Langas, elangas@btcmarketing.com
610-256-2946

Note: Please read to the end to get the “full story.” 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA, Pa., April 1, 2025 – Lincoln, the Bald Eagle made famous for his flyovers at Philadelphia’s home football games, will now spend his summers close to the City of Brotherly Love, according to his carers. A state-of-the-art enclosure will be installed at Natural Lands’ Hildacy Preserve later this spring. 

The 27-year-old raptor took over for his predecessor, Challenger, when that Bald Eagle developed cataracts. Both eagles live with other birds of prey in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, at the American Eagle Foundation. The nonprofit organization works to rehabilitate eagles and other birds of prey, and to educate the public about their care and conservation. 

“As Lincoln is middle-aged, we are assessing the impact of the heat on his quality of life,” said Frank Prank, senior habitat scientist at the Foundation. “In Tennessee, it can get very hot and humid in the summer. We’ve observed Lincoln panting—which is how eagles thermoregulate—more often and acting more lethargic.” 

The Pennsylvania-based facility will also mean Lincoln won’t have to spend so much time being transported from Tennessee to Philadelphia for football games.  

“To be frank,” Frank stated, “we can use the enclosure at Hildacy Preserve to reduce stressful travel during football season when there are back-to-back home games.”

Bald Eagles can live into their 40s in captivity, so experts hope that the move to Pennsylvania will give Lincoln the best chance of a long and happy life. 

“We’re so excited to offer Lincoln summer accommodations,” said Natural Lands President Oliver Bass. “Our organization has worked for more than 70 years to preserve and care for habitats in which Bald Eagles and other wildlife can thrive. We hope Lincoln’s presence will remind preserve visitors how important the work of conservation is.” 

“Plus, we think it’s pretty cool that Lincoln will be closer to Philadelphia football fans,” Bass added. “There is an open invitation to all residents of our region to visit our properties, and that includes Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley. Over the decades, land development has impacted these beautiful birds… it’s really hit them low and hit them high. Our conservation work puts them on the road to victory. We take a 1-2-3 strategy, finding a place for them to touch down.”  

The eagle enclosure will be constructed largely within the 1800s bank barn on the preserve, which is located in Media, PA. The upper level of the barn, used only for storage over the years, will become an aviary with a retractable roof so that Lincoln can enjoy fresh air on milder days. Other amenities for the famous eagle include a programable sound system so his carers can read bedtime stories to Lincoln remotely, a pneumatic tube system that will release rats—Lincoln’s favorite snack—for both exercise and nutrition, and a carwash-like washing station with a conveyor belt to keep Lincoln clean and free of parasites.  

To cover all expenses for the raptor facility, we have an ambitious fundraising request out to Dolly Parton, who has long been a benefactor to the American Eagle Foundation.  

Construction is expected to begin later this month.  

“April is a busy time of year for us at Natural Lands,” said Gary Gimbert, vice president of stewardship. “Once we get through April Fool’s Day, it will be full steam ahead on this project.” 

(Happy April 1st!)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA, Pa., March 27, 2025 – Natural Lands and the Borough of Chester Heights, Delaware County, announced today the Borough purchased 40.2 acres of open space on Valleybrook and Smithbridge Roads. Natural Lands, a non-profit land conservation organization, has worked for the past several years to negotiate the project and secure grant funding.

The property is comprised of rolling meadows and woodlands with a tributary to Chester Creek. The land provides important natural services like slowing and absorbing stormwater to help reduce flooding and filtering rainwater before it enters Chester Creek. This waterway is one of the heathiest streams in Delaware County largely because much of the land along it remains undeveloped. Chester Creek empties into the Delaware River and is part of a watershed that provides drinking water to 15 million people. By purchasing the property to preserve as open space, the Borough will ensure the land continues to provide these valuable environmental services and offer habitat to native wildlife.

“It’s always a cause for celebration when a community invests in open space,” said Natural Lands President Oliver Bass. “More than just places to hike or relax, preserved open space cools and cleans the air we breathe, absorbs floodwaters, filters the water we drink, and gives wildlife food and habitat. Congratulations and our thanks to Chester Heights and the donors who made this possible.”

The Borough of Chester Heights plans to establish low-impact trails on the property for residents to enjoy.

“This acquisition marks a wonderful chapter for the Borough,” said Borough of Chester Heights Mayor Gina Ellis. “Almost five years ago, former mayor Fred Wood suggested to me that we do what we can to purchase the land rather than have it developed. He and I presented the concept to Council in an Executive Session. It felt like a Herculean task, but then Council President Drew Baum was on board and the many conversations began. The tremendous work from Natural Lands, the cooperation and patience of the landowners, and the generosity of private donors in Fred’s memory made it happen. My only regret is that Fred is no longer alive to see this project come to a successful conclusion. In his words, ‘We need to do this because land is the only thing we can’t make more of.’ The Borough and I will be forever grateful for Fred bringing this seemingly impossible idea to us. We did it, Fred!”

The property was valued at $3.74 million but the previous owner, Lorraine B. Powell, accepted a bargain sale price of $3.4 million.

Natural Lands secured funding from a variety of sources on the Borough’s behalf to underwrite the property purchase. These include Delco Greenways Municipal Grant Program; Land and Water Conservation Fund, a program of the National Park Service administered in partnership with the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; The Nature Conservancy; and the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, Local Share Account. Private donations in honor of Fred Wood and funds from the Borough of Chester Heights made up the balance.

“As everyone has heard me say repeatedly over the last five years in service, I place a very high premium on open space and historic preservation in our community. I was very happy to work with the Borough of Chester Heights on state funding and to clear a last-minute hurdle with regulatory approval,” said Representative Craig Williams. “I am grateful for the Powell family working with us to ensure the property remains undeveloped. And I am grateful to Borough Council, the Mayor, and Natural Lands on another successful collaboration.”

Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone.  As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 136,600 acres, including 40+ nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,600 acres. About five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all. natlands.org.

Please note: “Natural Lands” is the organization’s official operating name and should be used instead of its legal designation (Natural Lands Trust, Inc.).

Media Inquiries:

Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications
610-353-5587 ext. 267

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA, Pa., March 19, 2025 – Natural Lands announced today the preservation of two wooded properties that were transferred to state agencies. They provide critical habitat for migratory songbirds and other wildlife. The acreage will now be open to the public for visitation and recreation… and will never be developed.

The first property is a nearly 139-acre forested tract in both Heidelberg Township, Lebanon County, and Elizabeth Township, Lancaster County. Natural Lands purchased the property from the Byler family and transferred it to the PA Game Commission as an addition to the 6,254-acre Game Lands No. 46.

The second is a 12-acre property in Union Township, Berks County, comprised entirely of deciduous forest. Natural Lands purchased it from the Stauffer family and transferred it to the adjacent French Creek State Park. To date, Natural Lands has added 398 acres to the park.

These forested properties provide essential habitat to wildlife, particularly migratory songbirds such as Scarlet Tanager and Wood Thrush. In fact, these birds—along with 89 other bird species and hundreds of mammals, amphibians, fish, reptiles, and invertebrates—depend on Pennsylvania’s natural areas for their survival. These creatures are considered “Pennsylvania Responsibility Species.” The Commonwealth plays a key role in sustaining their global security by hosting at least 10 percent of their North American population or encompassing at least 25 percent of their North American range.

“More than half of Pennsylvania’s breeding birds are dependent on large, intact forests,” said Jack Stefferud, senior advisor of land protection for Natural Lands. “Anytime we can add acreage to existing forests like those held by the state it’s a victory for conservation.”

It is also a win for the thousands of visitors to these lands, as both properties will be available to the public for recreation, including hiking, bird watching, and hunting.

“Natural Lands played a vital role in bringing this important tract to the Game Commission,” said Tim Haydt, Pennsylvania Game Commission’s bureau director for habitat management. “Protecting this property from development will add to the biological, recreational, and scenic values associated with the network of lands comprising State Game Land No. 46. Natural Lands has proven to be an invaluable partner, and we look forward to future collaborations.”

A portion of the Byler property and the entirety of the Staffer property are located within the Schuylkill Highlands Conservation Landscape, an area designated by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources as a priority for land and water conservation, outdoor recreation, and compatible economic development.

Funding to support the Stauffer project came from the Highlands Conservation Act, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“I bought this land nearly 25 years ago as a real estate investment property,” said former owner Daniel Stauffer. “I enjoyed going for walks on the property and became attached to the beautiful ferns, mountain laurel, and large mature oak trees. It is special.”

He added, “Over the years, I was contacted by developers who were interested in building houses or developing a camping facility on the property. When Jack Stefferud contacted me about the state wanting to purchase my property to add to French Creek State Park, I immediately knew this is what I wanted to do. Now the property is forever protected from development, and I and everyone else can still enjoy it.”

Funding to support the Byler project came from the Byler family; the Highlands Conservation Act, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; and Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund – LT; and the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

“This addition to French Creek State Park is a major win for conservation and the wonderful community that supports the park,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “Thank you to Natural Lands for the continued commitment to protecting beautiful natural spaces like these in the region.”

“We are thrilled that Natural Lands has acquired this beautiful property, ensuring its protection and enjoyment for generations to come,” said Jonathan Byler. The Byler family generously accepted a bargain sale price for their property.

Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone.  As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 136,600 acres, including 40+ nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,600 acres. About five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all.

Please note: “Natural Lands” is the organization’s official operating name and should be used instead of its legal designation (Natural Lands Trust, Inc.).

Media Inquiries:
Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications
610-353-5587 ext. 267

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MEDIA, Pa., December 2, 2024 – Natural Lands announced today the conservation of the 14.4-acre Shillelagh Farm in Silver Spring Township, Cumberland County. The property offers essential habitat for wildlife, helps protect the quality of Hogestown Run, and helps mitigate the effects of a warming climate.

Shillelagh Farm consists of both woodland, agricultural fields, and floodplain. About 1,050 feet of Hogestown Run meanders through the eastern edge of the property. The land adjacent to the stream—which the landowner, Starr Offenger, has committed to leaving as a vegetated buffer—helps absorb and filter floodwaters during storms.

The property is now protected by a conservation easement held by Natural Lands, the region’s oldest and largest land conservation nonprofit. This perpetual, legally binding agreement ensures the farm will remain undeveloped forever.

“Starr and Howard Offenger’s efforts to conserve Shillelagh Farm will forever keep this remnant of Silver Spring Township’s agrarian heritage open for farming and wildlife,” said Land Protection Project Manager Robyn Jeney. “The landowners’ willingness to ensure the permanence of a naturally vegetated buffer along Hogestown Run will help to preserve and protect water quality as well as secure a meaningful corridor for wildlife habitat. It’s truly rewarding to see their conservation vision realized.”

In the early 2000s, after nearly three centuries of agricultural use, the area around the Offenger property began to be developed for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. To the east, the Property is bordered by the expanding residential and commercial development in the village of Hogestown, and to the west, by warehouses and numerous car dealerships. As a result, Shillelagh Farm is one of few remaining historical farmsteads in this part of Silver Spring Township.

“I could never in good conscience let this sacred land become another car lot or warehouse, which now surround our boundaries,” said landowner Starr Offenger. “It is a little piece of paradise for the wildlife to enjoy. It is indeed very calming to look out over the meadow and enjoy the beauty. I am glad for the opportunity to preserve!”

Silver Spring Township funded this conservation project.

Said Silver Spring Township Supervisor Laura Brown, “When the current owner’s father, Bud Gaskin purchased the farm in 1965, he planted more than 5,000 trees on the property. The foresight of Starr’s father allowed this land to stay protected and helped ensure it as an oasis for people and wildlife in the midst of rampant development. Silver Spring Township is proud to fully fund the preservation of Shillelagh Farm. With the completion of this project, the Township has now preserved more than 792 acres of farmland and woodland through our municipal Land Preservation Program.”

Natural Lands is dedicated to preserving and nurturing nature’s wonders while creating opportunities for joy and discovery in the outdoors for everyone.  As the Greater Philadelphia region’s oldest and largest land conservation organization, Natural Lands—which is member supported—has preserved more than 135,000 acres, including 40+ nature preserves and one public garden totaling more than 23,000 acres. Nearly five million people live within five miles of land under the organization’s protection. Land for life, nature for all. natlands.org.

Please note: “Natural Lands” is the organization’s official operating name and should be used instead of its legal designation (Natural Lands Trust, Inc.).

Media Inquiries:

Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications
610-353-5587 ext. 267

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