MISSION STATEMENT

The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy protects, conserves and restores land and water for the diversity of the region's plants, animals and their ecosystems.

Through science-based strategies, collaboration, leadership and recognition of the relationship between humankind and nature, WPC achieves tangible conservation outcomes for present and future generations.

A message from WPC Board Chairman E. Michael Boyle

A message from WPC President
and CEO Dennis McGrath

Establishing a conservation plan for Bear Run Nature Reserve

Targeting a leading pollution source in Pennsylvania

Establishing a conservation plan for Bear Run Nature Reserve

Bear Run Nature Reserve is the largest property owned by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. This 5,000-acre tract of wild mountain land lies along the western slope of Laurel Ridge in Fayette County. To gain a full appreciation of the vantage points offered by the trail’s bridges, spend some time looking both up and down Bear Run at each crossing. Track a darting submerged shadow retreating from an expanding ripple and you might see a brook trout. Watch for movement along the streambank, and you may observe a waterthrush feedingor a black-throated blue warbler bathing. The stream is clear because it drains from a protective forest that both filters and controls the flow of Bear Run.

The Bear Run Nature Reserve conservation plan initiated in 2005 will provide guidance for conservation, restoration and protection of terrestrial and aquatic habitats in the reserve and the surrounding landscape in order to maintain healthy ecosystems. High-gradient clear water streams, old hemlock stands and mixed hardwood forests have been identified as conservation targets in the reserve.

The View from Bear Run

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