conservation easement, On the Blog

NPC Conserves 116 Acres in Lycoming County

Comment

The Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) recently accepted the donation of a conservation easement from Robin Read and John Bierley. Located near Hughesville, the 116-acre property features a scenic blend of forest, open fields, and sweeping views that reflect the land’s natural balance and beauty.

Read and Bierley purchased the property in 1997, drawn immediately to its open spaces and expansive view of the West Branch Susquehanna Valley. Over time, their connection deepened, not just to the landscape itself, but also to the responsibility of caring for it intentionally.

John Bierley and Robin Read donated a 116-acre conservation easement to the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC).
A Seed Planted Long Ago

The idea of conserving the land took root years before the conservation easement was finalized. More than two decades ago, Read attended an event where she met NPC’s Executive Director, Renee’ Carey. That conversation left a lasting impression, planting the idea of land conservation in her head and her heart.

Read and Bierley’s respect for the land and the wildlife that share it is evident throughout the property. Walking the land reveals a mix of hardwoods and softwoods, wildlife tracks zigzagging through the woods and fields, and a thoughtfully tended pollinator meadow providing year-round food and habitat. A pond nestled on the property serves as a reliable watering hole for wildlife and unnamed tributaries wind through the valley below the woods, flowing onward to Muncy Creek and the West Branch Susquehanna River. These features all work together to benefit the wildlife, downstream waters, and broader community.

The streams, woods and fields on the conservation easement provide habitat for a variety of wildlife.
A Thoughtful, Deliberate Process

For Read and Bierley, the choice to conserve the land was also shaped by a powerful example close to home. After a neighboring landowner passed away, his property was subdivided for development. This outcome reinforced their desire to act intentionally. Read did not want to have any regrets, sharing, “Conserving the land was something I’ve wanted to do for a while now. I’d often think while packing for a trip, ‘what happens to our land if something happens to us?’ Now I know our land is conserved. It’s a relief. I’ll be more at ease when planning our next vacation.”

When reflecting on her experience working with NPC, Read added that, “It was not a difficult process, but it was a long one. There was a lot to consider, but now that it’s done I feel at peace and grateful.” 

This conservation easement represents Read and Bierley’s thoughtful commitment to the land and the community around it. With the continued support of NPC members and donors, NPC is able to work alongside landowners to shape a lasting future for the lands, waters, and wildlife that define Northcentral Pennsylvania.

The conservation easement, affectionately named Quiet Spirit by the couple, overlooks the West Branch Susquehanna Valley.
Learn More

If you are inspired by Read and Bierley’s story and want to learn more about NPC’s conservation projects and programs, we invite you to visit www.npcweb.org or contact the staff directly at 570-323-6222.

The Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) is a local land trust dedicated to conserving and enhancing the lands and waters of Northcentral PA. They have helped gain and enhance recreational access to some of the area’s most beloved outdoor destinations – including the Loyalsock Trail, Pine Creek Rail Trail, as well as the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. Moreover, their ongoing streambank stabilization projects have contributed significantly to the restoration of the region’s water resources. With the support of their members, NPC has conserved over 12,000 acres for the environmental well-being of our communities across a 12-county area. To learn more about NPC’s initiatives and how you can help make a difference, please visit their website at www.npcweb.org.   

conservation easement, On the Blog

NPC Conserves 230 Acres on the Snyder-Mifflin County Line

Comment

The Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) recently accepted the donation of a 230-acre conservation easement in Snyder and Mifflin Counties. NPC is a regional land trust conserving and enhancing the lands and waters in a 12-county area. NPC partnered with the landowner, Allen Jones, to establish the conservation easement. The property, aptly named Stillwater for its many ponds and wetlands, highlights how a forest, when cared for, benefits everyone. 

Allen Jones and NPC Land Steward Sara Schlesinger at the Stillwater conservation easement, marking a shared commitment to conservation.
A Lifelong Bond with the Land 

Jones’ bond with the land runs deep. Growing up in Snyder County, he spent countless hours exploring the woods, learning nature’s rhythms and cultivating a love for wildlife. While his classmates studied farming in their high school agricultural class, Allen focused on wildlife habitat. These early experiences helped shape his passion for the woods and the animals that call them home. 

Jones purchased the land for his homestead in 1988, and years later had the opportunity to acquire the surrounding acreage – including the forest where he harvested his first deer at age 12. However, his vision went far beyond himself. He wanted to create “a paradise for man and beast,” where friends could hike and hunt, children could explore and learn, birds could rest during migration, and wildlife could roam freely throughout a healthy forest. 

Caring for the Land 

In order to bring his vision to life, Jones worked with a forester to develop a Forest Management Plan. For more than a decade, he has restored the forest by addressing the history of heavy logging on the land and controlling invasive species like stilt grass. He created spaces for new growth and planted native trees, including oak and maple. Fallen logs and brush were left to provide wildlife cover and protect seedlings, while deer populations were monitored to ensure forest regeneration. Jones established a nut orchard with almond, American chestnut, hazelnut, and pawpaw trees, providing additional food and habitat. Stewardship required patience, persistence, and sometimes difficult choices, but his dedication created a thriving, resilient forest. 

Stillwater is also alive with water and wetlands. Springs flow from neighboring Bald Eagle State Forest through the property leading to Jack’s Creek, a state-designated Cold Water Fishery, that connects to the Juniata and Susquehanna Rivers. Ponds and wetlands host wood frogs and other amphibians, while 40 bluebird houses and a scattering of wood duck nesting boxes provide homes for migratory and local birds. Each spring, local youth groups explore the vernal pools, connecting the next generation to nature. 

Conserving for the Future 

For Jones, conserving Stillwater was the natural next step, stating “I felt like my work was done, and it was time to conserve it for the future.” After some careful research, he connected with NPC Land Steward, Sara Schlesinger. Their shared interests of hunting and the outdoors quickly turned a conversation into collaboration. “It’s been a joy. Sara at NPC has been great to work with right from the start,” Allen added. 

This conservation easement reflects not only Jones’ dedication, but also the support of NPC members. Through the generosity and commitment of members and donors, NPC can partner with people to conserve the landscapes, waters, and wildlife that define Northcentral Pennsylvania. 

For landowners considering a conservation easement, Jones offered the following advice: “If you want to conserve your land and life’s work, do it now. A conservation easement with NPC is a means to pass on something you love for future generations. And consult with a forester to get a plan together – it makes all the difference.” 

Learn More 

If you are inspired by Jones’s journey and want to learn more about NPC’s conservation projects and programs, we invite you to visit www.npcweb.org or contact the staff directly at 570-323-6222. 

The Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) is a local land trust dedicated to conserving and enhancing the lands and waters of Northcentral PA. They have helped gain and enhance recreational access to some of the area’s most beloved outdoor destinations – including the Loyalsock Trail, Pine Creek Rail Trail, as well as the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. Moreover, their ongoing streambank stabilization projects have contributed significantly to the restoration of the region’s water resources. With the support of their members, NPC has conserved over 12,000 acres for the environmental well-being of our communities across a 12-county area. To learn more about NPC’s initiatives and how you can help make a difference, please visit their website at www.npcweb.org.    

Event, On the Blog, Tioga River Restoration

NPC Brings Van Wagner to Blossburg: Concert Celebrates Coal Mining History and Tioga River Restoration 

Blossburg, PA – The historic Victoria Theatre in Blossburg was alive with music and storytelling on Sunday, September 28, as musician, educator, and former coal miner Van Wagner performed in Songs Celebrating Coal Miners of Pennsylvania. 

This family-friendly concert, presented by the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC), honored the coal miners who helped shape Pennsylvania’s history while highlighting ongoing efforts to restore the Tioga River. 

Van Wagner Brings Coal Mining History to Life

Van Wagner is an educator, forester and musical artist. In the classroom, he teaches Agriculture Science at Danville Area High School.  His songwriting explores Pennsylvania’s history, landscapes, and its spirit. He is releasing his thirty-sixth album this fall.  

Wagner’s stories, songs, and humor were well-received by the 85 concertgoers who came out to enjoy the show. 

Ben Nevin, a Blossburg resident who attended the concert, shared: “It was a great honor to have Van in my soft-coal hometown, promoting a great cause cleaning up abandoned mine drainage in the Tioga River.” 

Concert Shines a Spotlight on Tioga River’s Restoration Journey

The intimate Victoria Theatre provided an inviting setting for the community to connect through music and history while learning about the local conservation efforts. 

NPC’s Executive Director, Renee’ Carey, shared: “Van Wagner’s music brought our coal mining history to life and gave us an opportunity to engage with the community about the Tioga River and the ongoing clean-up project.” 
 
This free, public concert was made possible thanks to support from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC).  

L to R: Renee’ Carey (NPC), Deb Capece (Victoria Theatre), Van Wagner, Erica Tomlinson (TCCD), Holly Byers (NPC)
Rivers, Coal & Crafts

The concert was part of the 2025 Rivers, Coal & Crafts series, a series of hands-on educational events coordinated by NPC, the Blossburg Memorial Library, and the Tioga County Conservation District (TCCD). Throughout the series, participants explored the region’s mining history, learned about the decades-long impacts of Abandoned Mine Drainage (AMD), and discovered how local partnerships—including NPC, TCCD, the Tioga County Concerned Citizens Committee, and SRBC—are working to improve the health of the Tioga River. 

Learn More about the Tioga River Restoration
Acquisition, On the Blog, Public Access

NPC Members Add Frontage Along Pine Creek to Tiadaghton State Forest

The 11.3-acre property along Pine Creek that NPC members helped conserve last year has now been officially added to the Tiadaghton State Forest! The land was transferred to the Bureau of Forestry and is now part of the state forest system. 

Thanks to the ongoing support of NPC members, this beautiful stretch of Pine Creek—with about 1,500 feet of creek frontage and surrounded by state forest land will be open for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are paddling by, fishing along the bank, or just taking in the view, this spot is now part of what makes the Pine Creek Valley so special. 

This addition also plays an important role in forest management. Now that the Bureau of Forestry owns the land, staff can more easily access and care for this section of the forest.  

“Adding this property improves our ability to manage invasive species, monitor forest health, and maintain access to a large block of public land. We’re grateful to NPC and its members for helping expand the Tiadaghton State Forest in a way that supports both conservation and recreation.”
-Tom Casilio, Forest District Manager, Tiadaghton State Forest

We are thankful to everyone who helped make this project happen. That includes NPC members, partners, and especially George Durrwachter, whose support and connections helped move this forward. 

Because of you, another piece of Pine Creek’s natural beauty has been conserved for people to enjoy today and in the future. 

To learn more about the property, visit the Fitzgerald Project page.

Event, On the Blog

Paddlers Support Local Conservation at the W&L Subaru Paddle Happy Jumbo 

Paddlers gather as W&L Subaru’s Bryce Kile presents a donation to NPC’s Reneé Carey and Holly Byers at the W&L Subaru Paddle Happy Jumbo event held on July 19, 2025.

The Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC), W&L Subaru, and Bad Adventures welcomed more than 30 paddlers to the inaugural W&L Subaru Paddle Happy Jumbo on Saturday, July 19. The one-day paddle trip along the West Branch of the Susquehanna River gave participants an opportunity to experience the River through a guided paddle while supporting conservation work across the region. 

Highwater in June forced the original event to be rescheduled, but the day proved worth the wait. With overcast skies and a light breeze, the weather was ideal for exploring the River by kayak and canoe. The group launched from Watsontown Memorial Park and made a stop at Milton State Park for live music and lunch before continuing downriver to Lewisburg. 

Paddlers launch from Watsontown Memorial Park to begin the inaugural W&L Subaru Paddle Happy Jumbo

Before the paddlers set out, W&L Subaru Owner, Andy Long, addressed the group, sharing his appreciation for their participation and support. He also encouraged the group to reach out if they are aware of any other community needs that W&L Subaru might be able to assist with in the future.

“W&L Subaru has been a part of this community for a long time, and we love supporting events like the Paddle Happy Jumbo. We enjoy doing community work, and while it’s a great opportunity for exposure, we truly value these events that contribute to our community and help us fulfill our Love Promise.”

Bryce Kile, Marketing at W&L Subaru

During the lunchtime stop, NPC received a generous donation from W&L Subaru, reflecting a portion of the proceeds from the event. Participants also contributed directly to NPC, furthering the organization’s mission to conserve and enhance the lands and waters of northcentral Pennsylvania. These contributions support initiatives such as NPC’s streambank stabilization projects, which restore the health of local waterways by reducing erosion, improving aquatic habitat, and supporting clean water across the region. 

“This event is a great demonstration that conservation, recreation, and community go hand in hand,” said Reneé Carey, NPC’s Executive Director. “We’re grateful to W&L Subaru, Bad Adventures, and every person who came out to paddle for a purpose.” 

NPC is thankful for the community spirit that made the Paddle Happy Jumbo a success. Events like this bring people together on the water, while also helping to advance real, on-the-ground conservation work. Whether it’s restoring streambanks, conserving working farms, or connecting people to the outdoors, NPC’s work is made possible by the partnerships and generosity of supporters like you.

Support the Work
Event, On the Blog

A Community “Water Quilt” Comes Together

Blossburg – On June 30, the Blossburg Memorial Library came alive with bright colors and big ideas during Part 1 of the Water Quilt project. This special event was part of the Rivers, Coal & Crafts series from the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) and partners. The hands-on workshop invited kids to learn about rivers through a story and an art project. 


Julie Weaver, a retired teacher and NPC Board Member, leads the creation of the community “Water Quilt” at the Blossburg Memorial Library.

Julie Weaver, a retired teacher and NPC Board Member, led the workshop. She began by reading a river-themed story that encouraged children to imagine the sights and sounds they might encounter while traveling down a river. As they listened and shared, they also learned about the Tioga River—how it has been affected by Abandoned Mine Drainage (AMD) pollution in the past – and how people are working together to help it recover. After the story, the kids brought their ideas to life by drawing river-inspired scenes on sandpaper.

Their designs have since been transferred onto fabric squares using an iron, and those squares have been pieced together into a quilt top! 

Children gather to listen to a river-themed story and then create their own artwork to add to the community Water Quilt.

The “Water Quilt” Continues: Join Us for Part 2

Now it’s time to finish the quilt together! On Monday, July 28 at 1:30 PM, we invite you to return to the Blossburg Memorial Library for Water Quilt (Part 2). This free event is open to everyone. You do not need to have attended Part 1 to join. 
 
Julie will read a new river-themed story, then new participants will have the chance to create their own sandpaper artwork to be ironed onto a Rivers, Coal & Crafts t-shirt. Afterward, everyone will work together to tie the final knots and complete the Water Quilt. We’ll be using yarn from the Blossburg Company Store’s Tioga River yarns, adding a special local touch to the project. Once finished, the quilt will be displayed at the Blossburg Memorial Library.

A Stitch in a Larger Story: Restoring the Tioga River

The Water Quilt project is part of the ongoing Rivers, Coal and Crafts series, made possible by grant funding from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC), the Jones Foundation, and Friends of the Blossburg Memorial Library.   

The series – coordinated by NPC, Tioga County Conservation District, and the Blossburg Memorial Library – celebrates the Blossburg community and shares information about the Tioga River’s ongoing restoration. 

Through hands on workshops, craft projects, and storytelling, participants of all ages are learning about the decades-long impacts of AMD on the Tioga River, and how local partnerships are working together to restore the health of the river and its surrounding landscape.   

Event, On the Blog, Tioga River Restoration, Water

Tie-Dye and the Tioga River: Turning Pollution into Art 

Blossburg – On Friday, June 27, more than 80 people gathered at the Blossburg Memorial Library for an afternoon of creativity, learning, and community connection at a free tie-dye party. However, this was not your typical tie-dye event. Instead, participants used an orange dye made from an unusual source: abandoned mine drainage (AMD). 

Erica and Maddy from the Tioga County Conservation District help out at the Tie-Dye Party held at the Blossburg Memorial Library.
Inside, NPC staff, Sara and Jesse, lead participants through a macro-matching game while waiting for their turn to tie-dye.

Why the Tioga River Runs Orange

AMD happens when water flows through old coal mines, picking up iron and metals along the way. When this water reaches meets air (oxygen) chemical reactions takes place. One chemical reaction is the iron in the water turns orange. This orange can stains the rocks and streambeds. This is what causes some parts of the Tioga River to have that bright orange color. 

At the tie-dye party, guests of all ages learned how AMD has affected the Tioga River for years. AMD from old mines along Fall Brook, Morris Run, and Coal Creek continues to flow into the river, harming water quality and aquatic life. Rather than just talking about the problem, we turned it into something colorful. Using pigment made from iron oxide collected from AMD, guests created one-of-a-kind t-shirts they could take home. 

The bright orange color in parts of the Tioga River comes from iron in abandoned mine drainage (AMD). As the iron-rich water meets air, chemical reactions turn the riverbed orange.

Access Leads to Action

The Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) is playing a key role in the Tioga River’s recovery. By acquiring the Coal Creek property, NPC helped make it possible for scientists and engineers to reach the largest mine discharge site in the entire Tioga River watershed. This access is an important step toward designing and building treatment systems that can clean the water and bring fish and other aquatic life back to the river.

Rivers, Coal and Crafts: Highlighting the Tioga River Restoration

This event is part of the ongoing Rivers, Coal and Crafts series, made possible by grant funding from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC), the Jones Foundation, and Friends of the Blossburg Memorial Library.  

The series, coordinated by NPC, Tioga County Conservation District, and the Blossburg Memorial Library celebrates the Blossburg community and shares information about the Tioga River’s ongoing restoration.  

Through hands on workshops, craft projects, and storytelling, participants of all ages are learning about the decades-long impacts of Abandoned Mine Drainage (AMD) on the Tioga River, and how local partnerships are working together to restore the health of the river and its surrounding landscape.  

Uncategorized

Artists Capture Blossburg in Motion During Urban Sketch Workshop

Artists of all ages recently spread out along the Tioga River and Main Street in Blossburg, PA, for an urban sketch workshop.

Thanks to grant funding from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC), participants had the opportunity to develop their sketching skills with guidance from artist Bibi S. Brion.

Although the Tioga River is currently impacted by Abandoned Mine Drainage, restoration work is underway. In a few years, the river will once again support water-based recreation. These changes could also bring new opportunities for businesses and services along Main Street.

Artist Bibi S. Brion leads the Urban Sketch Workshop at the Blossburg Memorial Library.
Exploring Blossburg Through Plein Air

During the workshop, artists used pencils, pens, and watercolor-style techniques to capture the sights and scenes of the community. At the end of the day, the group gathered to share their work with one another.

Bibi and several workshop participants practice plein air painting—a style where artists work outdoors and are inspired by their surroundings. This approach often captures natural landscapes, painted directly on-site.

The urban sketching method Bibi shared focuses on the built environment—bridges, buildings, roads—and often begins with pencil or pen drawings created on location. Artists may later add color using watercolors, pastels, or other media.

Stay tuned for more photos of the artists’ work! We’ve asked participants to send in images of their sketches so we can share them with you.

Rivers, Coal & Crafts: Highlighting the Tioga River Restoration

The grant from SRBC is supporting a full series of events this summer: the Rivers, Coal & Crafts series. Coordinated by the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) and the Blossburg Memorial Library, the series celebrates the Blossburg community and shares information about the Tioga River’s ongoing restoration.

Through hands-on workshops, craft projects, and storytelling, participants of all ages are learning about the decades-long impacts of Abandoned Mine Drainage (AMD) on the Tioga River—and how local partnerships are working together to restore the river and its surrounding landscape. 

Tioga River Restoration, Uncategorized, Water

Local Students Explore Water Quality with Gnolli and the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy

Gnolli, the Tioga River Gnome, recently joined the 2024–2025 class of the Tioga County Partnership for Community Health’s Youth Leadership Program at their final session. High school juniors and seniors from across Tioga County spent the day learning about watersheds, water quality, abandoned mine drainage (AMD), and the importance of community involvement in conservation.

Students test pH with red cabbage juice and learn how abandoned mines affect local waterways.

Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) Board Member and former Southern Tioga School District science teacher, Julie Weaver, led students through an activity exploring water pH.

pH is a measure of how acidic or basic water is. Because pH is affected by the chemicals present, it’s an important indicator of whether the water is undergoing chemical changes. The pH level also determines how much of a substance can dissolve in the water and how accessible that substance is to aquatic life.

pH is one of the key indicators used when studying abandoned mine drainage.

Metals like aluminum become more toxic at lower pH levels because more of the metal dissolves into the water under acidic conditions.

After discussing how abandoned mines can affect water quality, students used red cabbage juice to test the pH of various liquids. One of the samples was water from Coal Creek. Other samples included lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, milk, pond water, rainwater (there was plenty of that this month), baking soda, and soda pop. In case you’re curious, Coal Creek’s water typically has a pH between 2.7 and 3.0, according to Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) data. For comparison, baking soda has a pH of 8.5, and dairy milk has a pH of 6.5.

When red cabbage juice was added, acidic liquids turned red, while less acidic (more basic) substances turned blue.

The amateur scientists walked away with a better understanding of pH and how water can be impacted by abandoned mines—and Gnolli had a chance to make some new friends!

Thank you to the Tioga County Conservation District, Tioga County Commissioners Shane Nickerson and Sam VanLoon, and Blossburg Mayor Tim Martin for including NPC—and Gnolli!

Coal Creek Connections: How NPC Is Helping Restore the Tioga River

For years, abandoned mine drainage has flowed from closed coal mines into the Tioga River from at Fall Brook, Morris Run, and Coal Creek. To support long-term restoration efforts, NPC acquired the Coal Creek property. This key site provides access to the largest mine discharge in the Tioga River watershed. That access is essential to designing and implementing real solutions to clean the water and restore aquatic life. 

Support this work

Conservation Project, On the Blog

Celebrate Bike Month: Bike Repair Stations Improve Trail Experience for Cyclists  

May is Bike Month, and we’re celebrating with a look at how a single flat tire led to a series of upgrades for cyclists on the Pine Creek Rail Trail. 

What began as an unfortunate flat—eight miles from the car, with no air pump in sight—sparked a conversation among Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) staff: what would make this trail even better for cyclists? The answer was simple: give riders access to basic bike repair tools right where they need them. 

Thanks to the support of our members and collaboration with partners, NPC has helped install a series of bicycle repair stations along the Pine Creek Rail Trail—ensuring that trail users can address minor mechanical issues and get back to enjoying the ride. 

A trio of cyclists use the bicycle repair station on the PCRT

From One Station to Many

NPC and our partners from the Pine Creek Preservation Association and Tiadaghton State Forest installed the first station several years ago at Bonnell Flats. Positioned near the comfort station, this location allowed the Bureau of Forestry to help monitor and maintain the unit. 

Since then, NPC and our partners installed two more repair stations in 2024: one at the Cammal Comfort Station and the other at Tomb Flats Recreation Area. 

Each station is equipped with tools for minor repairs and an air pump—ideal for fixing flat tires or making quick adjustments. These amenities not only reduce stress for cyclists but also help more people feel confident using and exploring the trail. 

The bicycle repair station at Bonnell Flats

A Collaborative Effort 

The bike repair station initiative is a shared success. In addition to NPC’s work with the Pine Creek Preservation Association and the Bureau of Forestry, similar stations have been installed by: 

Together, these efforts have built a network of support for cyclists along the entire 62-mile trail. 

Why It Matters 

The Pine Creek Rail Trail is a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, stretching through the heart of the Pine Creek Gorge and offering unmatched views, wildlife encounters, and a peaceful ride through the Pennsylvania Wilds. But even the most scenic ride can be interrupted by a loose chain or low tire. 

These repair stations may be small, but they have a big impact—improving safety, encouraging outdoor recreation, and making the trail more welcoming for everyone.