Places We Protect in Pennsylvania

Through long‑standing collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Pennsylvania Game Commission and local landowners, The Nature Conservancy has helped protect 729.27 acres within Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge. This partnership has strengthened habitat connectivity across a landscape known for its forests, wetlands, streams and rolling hills.

The refuge offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, birdwatching, nature photography and peaceful hiking, making it a standout natural destination in eastern Pennsylvania. Together, TNC and local partners have ensured that this diverse ecosystem remains protected and publicly accessible for future generations.

Woodbourne Forest Preserve in Dimock, PA, home to the largest remaining old‑growth forest in northeastern Pennsylvania, is one of the region’s most remarkable natural areas. Originally protected as The Nature Conservancy’s first preserve in Pennsylvania, Woodbourne is now owned and managed by the Edward L. Rose Land Conservancy, whose conservation mission closely aligns with TNC’s.

This partnership ensures long‑term protection of the preserve’s ancient trees, rich wildlife habitat and serene hiking trails, allowing visitors to experience one of Pennsylvania’s most intact old‑growth ecosystems.

Forest Pools Preserve at Kings Gap is a standout natural destination within Pennsylvania’s scenic South Mountain landscape, known for its rare vernal pools and ephemeral spring wetlands that support globally rare salamanders, frogs and woodland wildlife. These seasonal pools create some of the region’s most important breeding habitats, making the preserve a top spot for nature enthusiasts, hikers and wildlife photographers seeking unique springtime activity.

Over the years, The Nature Conservancy has helped protect this ecologically rich area, ensuring long‑term conservation of sensitive forests and wetlands. In May 2021, TNC transferred the Sutton Tract to the Kings Gap State Environmental Education Center, expanding the park to nearly 2,600 acres. This partnership increases public access, enhances trail connectivity and strengthens the region’s overall conservation impact.

Today, Forest Pools Preserve offers a peaceful, biodiverse escape where visitors can experience seasonal wildlife, scenic forest views and rare natural habitats all protected through collaborative stewardship.

Bristol Marsh is Pennsylvania’s last remaining freshwater tidal marsh, a rare and ecologically significant wetland along the Delaware River. Despite its small size and urban surroundings, the marsh supports six rare plant species found only in Delaware River tidal ecosystems. These plants and the marsh itself play an essential role in filtering pollution, improving water quality and protecting the health of the Delaware River.

The Nature Conservancy works in close partnership with Heritage Conservancy to manage and restore this unique wetland, ensuring its sensitive habitats remain healthy and resilient. Today, Bristol Marsh offers visitors a chance to experience a one‑of‑a‑kind tidal ecosystem, while ongoing conservation efforts protect this vital natural area for future generations

The Nature Conservancy helped protect 57.76 acres at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia through a combination of technical assistance and land transfer. This partnership expanded one of the city’s most important natural spaces, strengthening habitat for migratory birds and wildlife while increasing outdoor access for local communities.

Today, visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, birdwatching, fishing and peaceful wetland views, all within city limits. The expanded refuge demonstrates how collaborative conservation creates healthier ecosystems and more opportunities for people to connect with nature close to home.

The Nature Conservancy partnered with the U.S. National Park Service to help protect 46 acres now incorporated into Valley Forge National Historical Park. This conservation success enhances the park’s natural landscapes, adds important wildlife habitat and ensures the land remains publicly accessible for generations.

With the expanded acreage, visitors can explore an even richer network of hiking and biking trails, open meadows, forests and scenic views while experiencing the powerful blend of history and nature that makes Valley Forge a national treasure.

Part of the State Line Serpentine Barrens, Chrome Barrens Preserve represents one of the rarest ecosystems in the eastern United States. After decades of active stewardship, including managing the unique 63‑acre Lower Chrome tract, The Nature Conservancy has transferred this land to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, ensuring its long‑term protection.

This globally significant landscape features thin, nutrient‑poor soils and sun‑baked serpentine rock, creating desert‑like conditions where rare species such as serpentine aster, fameflower, glade spurge and long‑haired barrens chickweed thrive.

Today, the preserve remains a remarkable destination for botanists, hikers and nature enthusiasts eager to explore one of Pennsylvania’s most unusual and biodiverse natural habitats.