Pennsylvania is home to a diverse array of natural landscapes and wildlife, from the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains to the shores of Lake Erie. Fortunately, there are many dedicated local nonprofit organizations working tirelessly to protect and preserve these precious resources for future generations. We’ll highlight some of the key groups focused on conserving Pennsylvania’s natural areas and wildlife.
The Nature Conservancy – Pennsylvania Chapter
The Nature Conservancy’s Pennsylvania Chapter has been working tirelessly for decades to protect the state’s diverse natural landscapes and iconic species. Their science-based approach to conservation has led to numerous successful initiatives and partnerships across the state.
One of TNC’s primary focus areas in Pennsylvania is protecting and restoring critical habitats, such as the Allegheny Mountains and the Poconos. These regions are home to a wide array of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or threatened. By working with local communities, businesses, and government agencies, TNC aims to ensure that these habitats remain healthy and resilient in the face of various environmental challenges.
Another key aspect of TNC’s work in Pennsylvania involves collaborating with farmers to promote sustainable agriculture practices. By helping farmers adopt techniques that reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, and enhance biodiversity, TNC is working to create a more sustainable future for both agriculture and the environment.
TNC also partners with energy companies to minimize the impact of development on natural areas. This includes working to ensure that energy infrastructure, such as pipelines and wind farms, are sited and constructed in a way that minimizes harm to sensitive habitats and species.
Finally, TNC supports research and monitoring efforts focused on key species in Pennsylvania, such as the hellbender salamander and the Indiana bat. By gathering data on these species and their habitats, TNC can develop more effective conservation strategies and measure the success of their efforts over time.
Address: 555 E. North Lane, Suite 6030, Conshohocken, PA 19428
Website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/pennsylvania/
Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
Founded in 1932, the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) has been a leader in protecting and restoring the region’s exceptional natural places for nearly a century. With a focus on land conservation, watershed restoration, and community engagement, WPC works to ensure that Western Pennsylvania’s natural heritage remains intact for future generations.
One of WPC’s primary areas of focus is preserving natural lands, including forests, streams, meadows, and farmlands. By acquiring and managing these lands, WPC helps to protect the region’s biodiversity, maintain water quality, and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation.
WPC also works to restore rivers and streams throughout Western Pennsylvania, with the goal of ensuring clean water for both wildlife and people. This includes efforts to reduce pollution, improve in-stream habitat, and restore riparian buffers along waterways.
In addition to its land and water conservation efforts, WPC is dedicated to studying and protecting the region’s rare, threatened, and endangered species. This includes conducting research on species such as the Eastern hellbender salamander and the Indiana bat, as well as working to protect the habitats these species depend on.
WPC also recognizes the importance of connecting people to nature, particularly in urban areas. Through its Community Gardens and Greenspace program, WPC works to create green spaces and plant trees in cities and towns across Western Pennsylvania. These efforts not only beautify communities but also help to address environmental challenges such as stormwater runoff and urban heat islands.
Finally, WPC is responsible for caring for Fallingwater, Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic house in Mill Run, Pennsylvania. In addition to preserving this architectural masterpiece, WPC offers educational programs at Fallingwater to inspire visitors to appreciate the connections between art, architecture, and nature.
Address: 800 Waterfront Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Website: https://waterlandlife.org/
Pennsylvania Environmental Council
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) is a statewide organization that works to protect and restore the state’s natural and built environments through a combination of innovation, collaboration, education, and advocacy. By partnering with a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, government agencies, communities, and individuals, PEC seeks to find practical solutions to environmental challenges that benefit all Pennsylvanians.
One of PEC’s key areas of focus is promoting clean energy and addressing climate change. This includes advocating for policies and practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources.
PEC also works to support conservation and recreation on public lands throughout Pennsylvania. This includes efforts to expand and improve state parks, forests, and trails, as well as to promote sustainable land management practices that balance conservation with responsible resource use.
Another important aspect of PEC’s work involves advancing watershed health through education, community engagement, and sustainable stormwater management. By working with local communities and watershed groups, PEC helps to raise awareness about the importance of clean water and promote practices that reduce pollution and improve water quality.
Finally, PEC provides support for local watershed groups through the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR). POWR serves as a statewide network for watershed groups, providing them with resources, training, and opportunities for collaboration and advocacy.
Address: 810 River Avenue, Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Website: https://pecpa.org/
Audubon Pennsylvania
Audubon Pennsylvania, the state office of the National Audubon Society, plays a crucial role in protecting birds and their habitats throughout the Commonwealth. With a network of chapters across the state, Audubon Pennsylvania works to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on the unique needs of birds and other wildlife.
One of Audubon Pennsylvania’s most significant initiatives is the operation of the Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch, located in Cumberland County. This globally important site is a critical migratory pathway for raptors, including hawks, eagles, and falcons. The Hawk Watch provides valuable data on raptor populations and migration patterns, which informs conservation efforts both locally and internationally.
In addition to monitoring raptor migration, Audubon Pennsylvania is actively involved in restoring and managing Important Bird Areas (IBAs) across the state. IBAs are sites that have been identified as critical for bird conservation due to their unique habitat features or the presence of significant bird populations. By working to protect and enhance these areas, Audubon Pennsylvania ensures that birds have the resources they need to thrive.
Engaging local communities is another key aspect of Audubon Pennsylvania’s work. The organization promotes bird-friendly practices, such as the use of native plants in landscaping and the reduction of light pollution, which can disorient migrating birds. By educating the public about the importance of these practices, Audubon Pennsylvania empowers individuals and communities to take action for birds.
Finally, Audubon Pennsylvania is a strong advocate for policies that protect birds and their habitats. The organization works with state and local governments to promote legislation and regulations that prioritize conservation and address threats to bird populations, such as habitat loss and climate change.
Address: 1201 Pawlings Road, Audubon, PA 19403
Website: https://pa.audubon.org/
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a pioneering force in raptor conservation. Founded in 1934 as the world’s first refuge for hawks, eagles, and falcons, the Sanctuary has been instrumental in changing public perception of raptors and advancing the science of raptor conservation.
One of Hawk Mountain’s primary roles is providing a safe haven for migrating raptors. The Sanctuary’s location along the Kittatinny Ridge makes it a vital stopover point for thousands of raptors each year. Visitors to the Sanctuary have the opportunity to witness this incredible migration and learn about the importance of these birds in our ecosystems.
In addition to offering a protected space for raptors, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary conducts long-term monitoring and research on raptor populations and migration. The data collected at the Sanctuary provides valuable insights into the health of raptor populations and the factors that influence their migration patterns. This information is used to guide conservation efforts both at the Sanctuary and around the world.
Education is another core component of Hawk Mountain’s mission. The Sanctuary offers a wide range of educational programs for schools, families, and the general public. These programs aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of raptors and their role in our environment. By engaging visitors of all ages, Hawk Mountain inspires the next generation of conservation leaders.
Perhaps one of Hawk Mountain’s most significant contributions to global raptor conservation is its Conservation Science Traineeship program. This program provides hands-on training for international conservation leaders, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to protect raptors in their home countries. Graduates of the program have gone on to establish raptor conservation initiatives around the world, multiplying the impact of Hawk Mountain’s work.
Address: 1700 Hawk Mountain Road, Kempton, PA 19529
Website: https://www.hawkmountain.org/
Wildlands Conservancy
The Wildlands Conservancy is a leading voice for land and water conservation in eastern Pennsylvania. With a focus on the Lehigh Valley and the Lehigh River watershed, the Conservancy works to preserve and restore critical natural areas, ensuring that these spaces remain healthy and accessible for generations to come.
One of the Wildlands Conservancy’s most significant achievements is the protection and restoration of the 1,100-acre Trexler Nature Preserve. This vast expanse of forests, meadows, and streams provides vital habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species, while also offering recreational opportunities for the local community.
Environmental education is a key priority for the Wildlands Conservancy. The organization’s 77-acre Pool Wildlife Sanctuary serves as an outdoor classroom, where students and the public can learn about the natural world through hands-on experiences. The Conservancy offers a variety of educational programs, from school field trips to adult workshops, aimed at fostering a deeper connection to nature.
In addition to protecting and educating, the Wildlands Conservancy is actively involved in land and water conservation projects throughout the region. One notable example is the Lehigh River Watershed Conservation Plan, which seeks to protect and enhance the health of this vital waterway. By working with partners and stakeholders, the Conservancy is helping to ensure that the Lehigh River remains a thriving ecosystem and a valuable resource for local communities.
The Wildlands Conservancy also provides a wide range of community programs designed to engage people with nature. From bike and boat trips to summer camps and volunteer opportunities, the Conservancy offers something for everyone. By connecting people to the natural world, the Wildlands Conservancy is building a community of conservation stewards who will help protect these precious resources for years to come.
Address: 3701 Orchid Place, Emmaus, PA 18049
Website: https://www.wildlandspa.org/
Natural Lands
Natural Lands is a regional leader in land conservation, working to protect and steward natural areas throughout eastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. With a focus on the greater Philadelphia region, Natural Lands has made significant strides in preserving open space and connecting people to nature.
Since its founding in 1953, Natural Lands has protected over 125,000 acres of land, ensuring that these natural areas remain intact and unspoiled. The organization achieves this through a variety of methods, including land acquisition, conservation easements, and partnerships with landowners and government agencies.
In addition to protecting land, Natural Lands is dedicated to caring for the nature preserves under its stewardship. The organization manages a network of 43 nature preserves, many of which are open to the public for low-impact recreational activities like hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. By maintaining these preserves, Natural Lands provides valuable opportunities for people to experience and appreciate the natural world.
Engaging the public is another critical aspect of Natural Lands’ work. The organization offers a wide range of educational programs and events designed to connect people with nature and inspire a conservation ethic. From guided hikes and workshops to lectures and community events, Natural Lands is working to build a community of nature lovers and advocates.
Natural Lands also provides assistance to municipalities and private landowners on conservation planning and land stewardship. By sharing its expertise and resources, the organization helps communities and individuals make informed decisions about how to protect and manage their natural resources.
Address: 1031 Palmers Mill Road, Media, PA 19063
Website: https://natlands.org/
Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation
The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests. Working in partnership with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), PPFF is the voice for these invaluable public lands.
One of PPFF’s primary roles is advocating for state parks and forests in the state legislature. The organization works to ensure that these public lands receive adequate funding and support, so that they can continue to provide recreational opportunities, protect wildlife habitat, and preserve our natural heritage.
PPFF also plays a vital role in mobilizing volunteers to support and improve state parks and forests. The organization coordinates volunteer events and friends groups, which help with a wide range of projects, from trail maintenance and habitat restoration to educational programming and fundraising.
Education is another key component of PPFF’s mission. The organization offers a variety of educational programs and events designed to connect people with nature and promote stewardship of our public lands. By fostering a deeper appreciation for these natural resources, PPFF is helping to ensure that they will be protected for future generations.
Finally, PPFF raises funds for projects that enhance the visitor experience and protect the natural resources of our state parks and forests. From trail improvements and facility upgrades to habitat restoration and conservation initiatives, PPFF is working to ensure that these public lands remain vibrant and healthy for years to come.
Address: 1845 Market Street, Suite 202, Camp Hill, PA 17011
Website: https://paparksandforests.org/
Final Words
These are just a few of the many dedicated nonprofit organizations working to protect Pennsylvania’s natural heritage. By supporting these groups through donations, volunteering, and advocacy, Pennsylvanians can help ensure that the state’s natural areas and wildlife are preserved for generations to come. Whether it’s a local land trust protecting a beloved natural area or a statewide organization advocating for conservation policies, these nonprofits play a vital role in maintaining the health and beauty of Pennsylvania’s environment.
