The Rise of Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and cycling, have experienced a significant surge in popularity over the past few decades.

Keystone Trail Association and Lancaster Conservancy have collaborated on numerous projects, including the development of the 1,200-mile-long Keystone Trail, a multi-use trail that spans across the state of Pennsylvania.

Keystone Trail Association and Lancaster Conservancy: A Partnership for Conservation

The Keystone Trail Association and Lancaster Conservancy have been working together for years to protect and preserve the natural environment in Central Pennsylvania.

The conservancy also owns 12 miles of streams and 1,200 acres of wetlands.

The Nature Conservancy’s Pennsylvania Properties

The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental organization with a significant presence in Pennsylvania. The organization’s Pennsylvania properties encompass a vast array of ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and streams. In this article, we will delve into the details of The Nature Conservancy’s Pennsylvania properties, highlighting the organization’s efforts to protect and preserve the state’s natural resources.

Preserves and Trails

The Nature Conservancy owns 50 nature preserves in Lancaster and York Counties, covering over 7,700 acres of land. These preserves provide critical habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species, and serve as important corridors for wildlife migration and habitat connectivity. Some of the preserves have Universal Access (UA) trails, which allow visitors to explore the natural areas while maintaining accessibility for people with disabilities. Three more preserves have UA projects in different stages of planning and construction, aiming to create more accessible trails and habitats for wildlife. The conservancy also owns 12 miles of streams and 1,200 acres of wetlands, providing vital habitats for aquatic species and supporting the state’s water quality.

The Importance of Wetlands and Streams

Wetlands and streams play a crucial role in maintaining the health of Pennsylvania’s ecosystems. These areas provide critical habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species, and support the state’s water quality. Wetlands act as natural filters, removing pollutants and sediments from the water and preventing erosion. Streams serve as corridors for aquatic species, providing habitat and connectivity for fish and other aquatic organisms.

The organization is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the state’s wilderness areas and promoting the enjoyment of nature for all people.

History of the Keystone Trail Association

The Keystone Trail Association has a rich history that spans over six decades. Founded in 1956, the organization has been working tirelessly to protect and preserve the state’s natural resources. The association’s early years were marked by a focus on building and maintaining trails in the state’s wilderness areas. Over the years, the organization has expanded its mission to include not only trail development but also environmental education and conservation.

Early Years

The Keystone Trail Association’s early years were marked by a small group of dedicated volunteers who shared a passion for hiking and conservation. These early members worked tirelessly to build and maintain trails in the state’s wilderness areas. The association’s first major project was the construction of the 100-mile-long Pine Creek Trail, which was completed in 1960. This trail was a significant milestone for the organization and marked the beginning of its commitment to preserving the state’s natural beauty.

Expansion and Growth

In the 1970s and 1980s, the Keystone Trail Association began to expand its mission to include environmental education and conservation. The organization established a number of programs and initiatives aimed at promoting the enjoyment of nature and protecting the state’s natural resources.

The Keystone Trail Association has been actively involved in the efforts to stop the construction of the dam.

The Keystone Trail Association’s Mission and Activities

The Keystone Trail Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation and conservation in the region. The association offers various training programs in outdoor skills, such as wilderness first aid, rock climbing, and kayaking. These programs aim to equip members and guests with the necessary skills to navigate and appreciate the natural environment. Some of the training programs offered by the association include:

• Wilderness first aid
• Rock climbing
• Kayaking
• Backpacking
• Camping

The association also leads outings for members and guests, providing opportunities for socialization and exploration of the region’s natural beauty. These outings can range from day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips, depending on the group’s interests and abilities.

The Concerns Over the Proposed Cuffs Run Dam

The Keystone Trail Association has raised concerns over the proposed Cuffs Run pumped storage hydroelectric power dam.