The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Pennsylvania’s rich and diverse forests harbor an array of wildlife and are a cornerstone of the state’s economy. Working Woodlands is a forest conservation program that aims to protect these critical forests while improving private forest management, providing revenue for forest landowners and fighting climate change.

Because over 70 percent of Pennsylvania’s forests are privately held – mostly by small and medium-sized ownerships – and largely lack long-term protection and management guidance, these valuable lands are vulnerable to fragmentation, land-use conversion and unsustainable harvesting practices. Many landowners do not have access to professional guidance that would help them maintain the biological health, diversity and economic viability of their forests.  And when these lands change hands, or a sudden financial need arises, the forest may be harvested quickly and in ways that damage the long-term viability of the forest. 

In response to this critical challenge, Working Woodlands for the first time provides a way for small as well as larger private landowners to gain access to markets that will help them manage their lands for long-term sustainability.

Program Basics

Get the facts about this model forest conservation program.

Who's Involved

Working Woodlands is a team effort. Find out more about who's involved. 

How it Works

Learn about our high-quality integrated certified forest management and forest protection services.

Program Description

Download an overview guide to this program.

Press Release

Read a press release about a recent Working Woodlands project that will protect 22,000 acres.

Contact Us

Want to know more? Find out how to contact our office.