This spring, the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) worked with landowners Jim and Cheryl Redmond to complete a conservation easement on their 109-acre property in Lycoming County. For nearly 40 years, Jim and Cheryl have cared for this land with the goal of conserving it for the future. They first contacted NPC more than a decade ago, and in early 2024, when they began making long-term plans, they returned knowing NPC would be a reliable partner.
A ‘Noble Forest’ on the Slopes of Batys Mountain
The Redmonds affectionately named their property Edelwald, which means “noble forest” in
German. It’s a name that fits well. The land sits on the south side of Batys Mountain and is home
to a healthy mix of oak, hickory, and maple trees, along with patches of Eastern hemlock and
white pine. Two open fields are maintained as meadows, offering space for wild turkeys, ground
nesting birds, and other wildlife. A small stream, Dubois Hollow Run, begins on the property and
flows into Lycoming Creek, before it joins the West Branch Susquehanna River.
Adding to a Growing Conservation Landscape
This property adds to a growing network of conserved lands in the region. It borders State Game
Lands 133 and is close to Loyalsock State Forest and several other properties NPC has helped
conserve. With its forested slopes visible from Rose Valley Road, Edelwald is a quiet but
powerful reminder of the value of conserving land.
“The Edelwald conservation easement is important, not just because of its size or where it’s
located, but because it connects key stretches of forest,” said Sara Schlesinger, NPC’s Land
Steward. “Conserving land like this helps wildlife move freely and helps keep our waters
healthy. We’re so grateful to Jim and Cheryl for their dedication to this land.”
Member Support Makes It Possible
This conservation easement was made possible through the ongoing support of NPC’s members and partners. Their commitment helps conserve land, improve water quality, and strengthen partnerships that shape the future of northcentral Pennsylvania. To help continue this work, please consider donating today and make a difference in our region’s conservation efforts.
Learn More
If you’re inspired by the Redmonds’ journey and want to learn more about how a conservation easement can conserve your land, we invite you to visit the NPC website. There, you’ll find resources and information to help guide you through the process. You can also contact NPC’s Land Steward, Sara Schlesinger, directly, at sschlesinger@npcweb.org or 570-323-6222.