Message from the President
In this publication we are pleased to report on the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy’s 2011 accomplishments in watershed protection, land conservation, natural heritage, gardens and greenspace work, and the continued preservation of Fallingwater. We also highlight the Conservancy’s three-year programmatic results measured against the objectives set forth in the 2009-2011 strategic plan.
In 2011, we conserved 10 properties totaling 2,901 acres across the region, including land on Evitts Mountain in Bedford County, the Lake Erie shoreline, in the Ligonier Valley and in the French Creek watershed. In partnership with landowners and other watershed groups, our Watershed Conservation Program protected, restored or enhanced 220 miles of rivers and streams. Our Natural Heritage Program provided information about animals, plants and natural places to guide the conservation work and land-use planning of government agencies, businesses and the conservation community. And our policy and science staff educated the public about potential impacts of Marcellus Shale development on Western Pennsylvania’s landscapes, and participated in policy recommendations to protect our region’s environment. Fallingwater hosted more than 160,000 visitors while celebrating its 75th anniversary with a landmark book, special events and educational opportunities. Approximately 13,000 volunteers helped plant 135 flower gardens and 3,975 street trees, demonstrating Western Pennsylvanians’ commitment to greening the region.
In addition, 2011 marked the final year of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy’s most recent three-year strategic plan. Guided by a defined vision that was articulated through a strategic planning process, the Conservancy achieved significant results in all programmatic areas, continuing our focus on protecting Western Pennsylvania’s most important places, in keeping with WPC’s mission and core values.
We could not have accomplished these outcomes without the support and generosity of our more than 11,300 contributors, collaborations with key partners, and the hard work and dedication of thousands of volunteers. Thank you to all of those partners, as well as a dedicated staff and board of directors, as we continue to be inspired to conserve Western Pennsylvania’s most special places for future generations.
Thomas Saunders
President and CEO
