Blue Bells Letter from the Executive Director D ear Friends, Conservation means to protect something, especially an environmentally or culturally important place or thing from harm or destruction. Through land conservation we permanently protect natural assets from harm or destruction. We do this for a number of reasons including: • to protect habitat for indigenous plant and animal species to thrive • to protect our drinking water supplies • to protect fertile lands for local food production • to provide places for us to recreate and connect with nature. Everything we have and everything that keeps us going in life comes from the natural world around us therefore it makes sense to conserve it to the best of our ability. As a community based non-profit, North Branch Land Trust relies exclusively on donations from supporters like you. Whether it is a membership donation, an annual appeal gift, support of one of our fund raising events, or a gift through a bequest, all funds support conservation efforts and all funds stay local. NBLT has no other funding source so your support is critical to accomplishing our land conservation mission. The Land Trust does receive grant funding for conservation projects, but these funds are for acquisition only and do not cover any of the administrative costs. Through your generosity NBLT has been able to conserve almost 18,000 acres of land to date in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Looking forward, we are excited to report that NBLT has a number of wonderful conservation projects in process and there are many great projects waiting in the wings. Our offices have been upgraded and additional staff has been added to help propel the Land Trust toward the conservation of the next 18,000 acres. However, all of this comes at a cost and over the next few years NBLT will look to grow its financial base of support to keep pace with its expanding conservation efforts. Northeastern Pennsylvania is a great place in which to live and work and if we work together we can conserve our important natural assets and in turn ensure a lasting legacy for our children and for future generations to come. Thank you,

Mission Statement:

Paul Lumia The North Branch Land Trust works in Executive Director partnership with landowners and their

Cover: Female Wood Duck communities to conserve the natural, working, and scenic landscapes in 2 North Branch Land Trust ❘ N 2016 AN UAL REPORT Northeastern Pennsylvania that sustain us. Contemplation The Joy of Discovery Year in Review Without love of the land, conservation lacks meaning or purpose for only in a deep and inherent feeling for the land can there be dedication in preserving it. ~ Sigurd F. Olson

North Branch Land Trust along with its donors, Education volunteers, staff, and board of directors, is passionate about land and connecting people to it. Boots on the ground! During the year NBLT offers many different ways for you to connect to the land and the beauty of the great outdoors. Events and activities present Orange Sulfur Butterflies the opportunity to celebrate, discover, travel, hike, observe, explore, and conserve the land that we all love. The Annual Dinner & Auctions, naturalist-led hikes, Exploring in all seasons discovering the secrets of vernal pools and native orchids, going on safari with our conservation partner in South Africa, observing the symbiotic relationship of flora and fauna, attending presentations on endangered species, and exploring new locations all give us the chance to feel deeply connected to the land and the need to conserve it. Please plan on joining any of these opportunities and discover the wonders of our land and nature.

Giraffe & Zebra, South Africa White Tail Fawn

Boots on the Ground Traveling with NBLT on Safari, South Africa

2016N AN UAL REPORT ❘ North Branch Land Trust 3 Breaking New Ground North Branch Land Trust is about to embark on the construction of 5.5 miles of hiking and biking trail that will help link the Wyoming Valley to the Seven Tubs Nature Area, Mountain Top, White Haven, and points south. The map below shows in yellow the portion of trail NBLT will be building. This section of trail represents the final leg of the 165-mile Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (D&L) trail traveling from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol in Bucks County PA. The trail follows the historic routes of the Lehigh and Susquehanna Railroad, Lehigh Valley Railroad, the Lehigh Navigation, Lehigh Canal, and the Delaware Canal. These rail and canal routes represent our industrial heritage and the transportation of anthracite coal, timber and other natural resources to markets on the east coast. It is the goal of the D&L to complete the entire trail by 2020. NBLT will be working closely with the D&L to complete the local section of this great trail. Partners on this project include NBLT, the D&L, Earth Conservancy, the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), The Luzerne Foundation, The Sordoni Family Foundation, PPL Utilities, and local municipalities. The Land Trust would like to give special thanks to Earth Conservancy for donating land for a portion of the trail as well as helping with land survey and other technical support. NBLT has partnered with Earth Conservancy on a number of conservation projects that have resulted in the permanent protection of over 5000 acres of natural lands in Luzerne County. Once complete, the trail will open up wonderful recreation opportunities to thousands living in the Wyoming Valley and will help connect people to nature and our industrial past.

4 North Branch Land Trust ❘ N 2016 AN UAL REPORT Conservation Project Nearing Completion Little Wilkes-Barre Mountain is situated just to the north of Penobscot Mountain near Nanticoke, PA in Luzerne County. The 1,131-acre project area is made up of forested ridge tops and valleys and hosts a number of interesting environmental and geological features. A tributary of Newport Creek flows through the property and harbors a good population of native brook trout, our state fish. The mountain helps frame the northern terminus of the Anthracite Valley known to us as the Wyoming Valley. The ridge top areas of the property afford wonderful views of the Valley and a good stand of old growth timber still exists. As part of NBLT’s Strategic Conservation Plan, it is our intention to try and conserve lands from Mocanaqua to Mountain Top along the Penobscot Mountain ridge top. This is a very diverse natural area that is worthy of conservation. This conservation project, along with past completed projects, brings the total lands conserved in this area to over 4,500 acres. All of this acreage is or will be accessible to the public for passive recreation activities. Thank you to our partners on this project! They include funding from PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources through the Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2) grant program, the PA Bureau of Forestry providing additional funding, and the initial property owner, Earth Conservancy, for their willingness to conserve important natural lands in our communities. Upon completion of the project the property will be deeded to the PA Bureau of Forestry.

2016N AN UAL REPORT ❘ North Branch Land Trust 5 Youth Camp and Conservation O ver three years ago representatives of the YMCA approached North Branch Land Trust to see if we could develop a conservation plan for the majority of property at their Camp Kresge property located in Dennison Township near White Haven, PA. After much consultation and planning, NBLT came up with a conservation strategy that would permanently protect 650-acres of the camp property while allowing the YMCA to realize their development aspirations for the camp facilities. From an environmental perspective, the camp property has a number of unique features. Yeager Mountain on the property has a rare scrub oak barrens complex which provides habitat for some of Pennsylvania’s more endangered plant and animal species. The lowland areas contain wetlands and small streams and creeks that feed Nescopeck Creek, a designated cold water fishery. The property is also contiguous to State Game Lands and Nescopeck State Park and close to thousands of acres of other protected woodlands. Having large blocks of protected land helps maintain habitat for indigenous plant and animal species, provides natural protection for our water supply, and provides healthy recreation opportunities for us all. A big ‘thank you’ goes out to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for providing grant funding through the Community Conservation Partnerships Program and to the Board, Trustees, and Staff of the Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA for protecting our natural heritage.

6 North Branch Land Trust ❘ N 2016 AN UAL REPORT Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s“ peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you ...while cares will drop off like autumn leaves. ~ John Muir ”

Council Cup

2016N AN UAL REPORT ❘ North Branch Land Trust 7 Volunteer of the Year To All NBLT’s Volunteers

An extra special THANK YOU to all of NBLT’s dedicated volunteers! Volunteers are the life blood of the Land Trust and whether you are attending meetings, Roberta Troy ______stuffing thousands of envelopes for mailings, monitoring conserved properties, restoring an old Rain house and barn, building trails, clearing brush, gardens, leading hikes, or hauling trash, you are most butterflies, birds, bugs, appreciated! The Land Trust is honored that you are and bees willing to donate your time, energy, and talents to these are a NBLT’s land conservation mission. few of her favorite things. Blue Curls

R oberta Troy of Wyoming, PA was named NBLT’s 2016 Volunteer of the Year and was recognized at the Annual Volunteer Appreciation Get-Together held at Sabatini’s Beer Bar in Exeter, PA. Roberta’s interest and devotion to our environment is evident by the numerous environmental organizations she is involved with and by the many environmental programs she has offered through our public school systems, Wild Birds Unlimited, Back Mountain Bloomers, and North Branch Land Trust to name a few. Roberta is a 15 year member of the North American Butterfly Association, is a certified Penn State Master Gardener Volunteer, and she and her husband Bruce have been long time NBLT members. NBLT is lucky to have Roberta volunteering her time and sharing her knowledge with us all.

8 North Branch Land Trust ❘ N 2016 AN UAL REPORT New Board Members RETIRING Board Members NBLT welcomes Dallas, PA native Scott Watkins, D.M.D. and Moosic resident Vincent A. Scarpetta to the Board of Directors

S cott is a graduate of Wyoming Semi- nary, Wilkes University, and the Uni- versity of Pittsburgh School of Den- tal Medicine. He is an adjunct faculty member at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry where he teaches James T. Gorman Walter “Chip” Sorber graduate students implant and seda- tion dentistry. Scott is an avid outdoor- sman who enjoys hiking, skiing, snow- mobiling, fishing, and training hunting dogs with his dad. He is committed to maintaining the beauty and serenity of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Vince graduated from Scranton Prepa- ratory School and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He is the CEO of Pure Green Consultants Matthew Sordoni James T. Gorman LLC in Taylor, PA, an independent en- ergy and environmental consulting A fter eight years of service James T. Gorman, Walter “Chip” Sorber, Matthew Sordoni, and Michael Weaver retired from the NBLT company that specializes in develop- Board of Directors on December 31, 2016. Jim was a member ing energy and sustainability plans. of the Finance Committee and Annual Dinner Committee, Chip He is a member of the Pennsylvania was a longtime Howland Preserve Management Committee Golf Association and the American Can- member and helped maintain NBLT conserved properties, Matt cer Society Ball of Hope. served as vice-chair then board chair for five years, and Mike served as treasurer for four years. The Land Trust will miss each of them and greatly appreciates their time and efforts supporting the NBLT mission.

2016N AN UAL REPORT ❘ North Branch Land Trust 9 January 1, 2016-December 31, 2016 Dr. Carl R. Urbanski James and Eileen Hoyson Donors David L. Wagner and Elizabeth Cecil Richard M. and Ruth Hughes III We extend sincere thanks to the conservation-minded friends whose commitment and support make possible North Branch Land WBS Penguins Jerry and Marian Hiester Idec Trust’s efforts to conserve land and connect people to nature in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The donors listed on the following Greg and Mia Weaver InterMetro Industries pages provided meaningful support throughout the year. Wet Paint George Isaacs Yuki’s Boutique Maribeth Jones NORTH BRANCH GUARDIAN Dan and Annie Fierman Kathleen F. Dunsmuir Terry and Wendy Jones $5,000 and up Gertrude Hawk Chocolates Bart and Barbara Ecker LEADER Steve and Robin Kaminstein Community Bank Golden Business Machines, Inc. First National Bank of Pennsylvania $250-$499 Bill and Christine Kammerer Andrew and Molly Cornell Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn, P.C. Capt. Alan B. Flanagan, USN (Ret) John and Beth Aciukewicz Josh and Liz Katyl Earth Conservancy Huntsville Golf Club Frank M. Henry Anthony and Barbara Anzalone Marcy L. Katzin Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc Paul Lumia Frank and Molly Hoegen Margaret Bakker and Rob Lewis Joe and Pete Kneidinger Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau M & T Charitable Foundation David and Sharon Hourigan Cindy Beaumariage and Rick Mooney Karen Labbate Robert Grajewski and Susan Garing Jean E. Mieczkowski Humford Equities, Inc. Chris and Eileen Blazic John W. and Elizabeth Lloyd James and Florence DePolo Foundation MotorWorld Benjamin R. Jones, IV Eileen Blood-Golden Mary Martin and Bill Barber Kenneth and Caroline Taylor Peoples Security Bank and Trust Nell-Ann Kappler Patricia Brooks Debbie Maseychik Family Foundation Joseph L. and Patrice Persico Stephen B. and Estella Killian Jane Butkovsky McCarthy Tire Service Kathleen Osberg Leclerc Pride Mobility Products Corp. Kovalchik, Kollar and Co., LLP Dr. Michael and Deborah Klayman Callahan MCR Productions Logos Fund of The Luzerne Foundation Dr. Norman and Roxanne Schulman Dr. William Krah III Stephen Chronowski John and Mary Metz One Source Staffing Solutions Mann and Sandra Shoffner Ann R. Lewis Michael and Meg Cramton Gerard and Catherine Mihalick PA DCNR Bureau of Rec and Con Simon and Co. Jewelers Carol Lizell Ivan and Cheri Davidowitz Scott and Marilyn Millington Shoval Foundation Kay Strickland and Tom Delehanty Luzerne Bank Allan and Debra Dick Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs Sordoni Family Foundation Trey and Christina Taylor Luzerne County Convention and Thomas Dorko Morda Kotch and Associates PC The Allstate Foundation Visitors Bureau John and Tina Dowd Morgan Stanley Employee Donations CONSERVATION SOCIETY The Marquis George MacDonald Thomas and Judith Mack Keith Dorton and Maria Landis Thomas and Andrea Mosca $4,999-$2,500 Foundation, Inc. Dave and Carolyn McLaughlin-Smith Mike and Rachael Dziak Joseph and Rose Marie Panzitta Anonymous James and Marie Thomas Scott and Susan Meuser Robert Finlay The Parsons Family Berkshire Asset Management Thrive Wellness Center Misericordia University First Keystone Community Bank Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and Floral Designs Times Printing Tony and Elaine Palischak Dr. Seth and Carolyn Fisher Skin Care Center of NEPA Chris and Ramah Hackett Alan Viani and Jane Morgenstern Leigh Pawling Jamie Flack RailRiders Bill and Wilma James Paul D. Wasserott Procter and Gamble Paper Products Co. Janet Flack Jim Reino Richard Maslow Watkins and Medura Dental Center Riggs Asset Management Company James and Janice Gorman Ringneck Ridge Inc. Mericle Commercial Real Estate Services Michael and Caitlin Weaver Bob and Barb Romanansky Dr. Gretta Gross Vince and Eileen Scarpetta PA Land Trust Association Wilkes University Rutkoski Fencing, Inc. Robert C. and Nancy Houck Tom Sherwood PNC Bank Dr. Thomas G. and Janis R. Winter Nicole Sennett and Michael Wilczynski Sundance Vacations Mary Ann Yonchiuk James and Susan Shoemaker Fred Valentine John and Maggie Zembruski Drs. Henry F. and Catherine Smith, Jr. Dr. William and Patti Watkins Jon Sordoni Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC BENEFACTOR William B. Sordoni $500-$999 Gary J. and Allyson Swartz, Jr. STEWARDSHIP SOCIETY Lissa Bryan-Smith and Richard M. Smith The Black Horse Foundation, Inc. $1,000-$2,499 Sarah Carr and Durland Edwards The Luzerne Foundation Anonymous Dr. Alfred and Mary Casale The Straub Family Fund of Craig Best Frank E.P. and Marion Conyngham The Luzerne Foundation Dan and Sarah Block Nina Davidowitz The Westmoreland Club Jim and Laura Dickson William and Mary Dockeray Trion Industries, Inc. Edith Reynolds Trust Dundee Gardens Marleen Troy

10 North Branch Land Trust ❘ N 2016 AN UAL REPORT Widow Skimmer Eastern Gartersnake Paul and Donna Bookstein Embellish Home Accents Kovalchik, CPA, David A. Kovalchik, CPA Gretchen Melnyk Borton Lawson Engineering, Inc. Endless Mountain Outfitters Joe Kozich Melt Hot Yoga Borwick’s Performance Hi-Fidelty Eberhard and Mary Louise Faber Kronick, Kalada, Berdy, and Co. George and Jane Merolla Donna Broda Kuliczkowski Paula Fall and Brian Gettig Allen Kropiewnicki Jeannie Mikush Anthony T.P. Brooks Dr. Herbert Fellerman John J. and Jill V. Kryston Guthrie Mitchell buka Daniel J. Santaniello Dr. William J. and Nancie Krywicki Dave and Denise Moore Bill and Carole Burak Thomas J. and Barbara H. Field Kurlancheek Home Furnishings Mountain Beverage Peter and Lesa Butera Judd B. and Dianne Fitze Ronne Kurlancheek and Joel Zitofsky Dr. Phil and Rev. Barbara Muntzel CANTEEN 900 Alex Flack Paul and Kathy Lantz Nahas and Donahue Orthodontics Charles R. and Elizabeth Carmalt James and Elizabeth Flannery Bob and Jan Larmouth Nawrocki Imports Robert L. Carson Ryan and Katie Flood Nikki LaVenda Barry and Marilyn O’Boyle Lee Case and Graysha Harris Joan S. Foster Patrick Layden Joe O’Connor Brock and Tara Siegel Donald J. and Rose Ann Casey Dr. Louis and Nancy Freedman Le Manhattan Bistro Thomas M. Ogorzalek Thomas E. and Karen Sox Joan Cashin James and Dawn Gaudino Bob and Shirley Leitner Nick and Sue Ouellette Stephen Taren Thomas and Patricia Finan Castellano George Burger and Sons Inc. Linde Corporation PA State Fox and Coyote Hunters Assoc., Inc. Bruce and Roberta Troy Central Clay Products, Inc Walt and Marilyn Glogowski Lockard Surveying and Mapping Edward and Judy Palka UGI Penn Natural Gas, Inc. Ed and Jen Ciarimboli Sherry Goldwein Andy and Ruth Ann Logue Panzitta Enterprises, Inc. Valley Aviation, Inc. John and Rachel Coates John and Patricia Graham Jim Luce Shep Pawling Dr. Scott and Kelley Watkins Rob Coburn Robert H. and Deborah Graham M & T Bank Anne Pelak Marcia Wazeter and Albert Jesikiewicz Lawrence Cohen Thomas and Judith Hall Joseph Macialek Perennial Point Kathleen Williams Greg and Marcia Coleman Jack and Jean Hanish Peter and Cindy Mailloux Robert A. Piccone Marguerite Woelfel William H. and Christina L. Conyngham Jimmy and Beth Harkins Mainstreet Galleries Art and Sandy Piccone Yudichak Family Lighthouse Fund of Cook’s Pharmacy Linda Harris Conor and Ellen Malone Ken and Nancy Kaiser Pidcock The Luzerne Foundation Bill and Ruth Corcoran George Hart Howard L. Mantle Kathy Podminick Dr. Douglas and Kathleen Coslett Harveys Lake Veterinary Clinic Marquis Art and Frame Dan and Jean Pope PATRON Andy and Marsha Costello Wilbur F. Hayes Martin’s Restaurant Paul and Rachelle Pryor $100-$249 John and Patricia Cremer Louise S. Hazeltine Nancy and Bob Mayer Radiation Medicine Specialists of 3 Sisters James and Kate Crowley Stacy Herb and Ryan Ness C E McLaughlin Northeast PA., P.C. Acton Technologies, Inc. Danko’s All American Fitness William E. Hine, Jr. Kris Medic and Bruce Thomason Rainbow Jewelers Jean Adams Bill Dantona Anne and Frouke Holmes-de Quillettes Peter Albano Joe and Sandy Darling Honeyhole Longbeards Chapter NWTF Rainbow over Hillside American Legion Post 781 George and Carol Daru Ted and Patty Horn Assured Partners of NEPA Davidowitz Foundation Howard and Julianne Daly Andrew M. Augustine Diane Davies and Sara Thompson Charitable Gift Fund Aura Salon Phil and Judy Decker Carol Hussa Kermit and Sally Ayres Dr. Patrick J. DeGennaro Leonard M. and Lita Insalaco Baby Vogue Boutique Jay and Valerie Delaney Irem Country Club Pro Shop Senator Lisa Baker John and Patti Della Rosa Jack Williams Tire Company, Inc. Balance Yoga and Wellness Joseph and Nan DeMarco Wendell and Kathy Jones Kathi Bankes William and Mary Dockeray Kalinosky Landscaping Inc Bassler Equipment Co. Brian Doran John Kaminski Benchmark Mortage Greg and Carol J. Douds Bill, Kim and Kaelee Kane Benco Family Foundation Barry H. Dyller and Lesa Gelb Clayton and Theresa Karambelas Benevity Community Impact Fund Bill and Audrey C. Eberhardt Marcella Kelly Frank and Carol Bevevino Richard Eckman Gerard Kipp David and Phyllis Billings Louise Edwards and Gary Johnston Anthony J. and Vivian Korch

2016N AN UAL REPORT ❘ North Branch Land Trust 11 Ruby Crowned Kinglet American Bull Frog Maya Shikhman Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA Wendy Shortz Gary and Denise Williams Matthew Sciabacucchi Rick Williams and Linda Casey Bonnie Silvetti Robert and Jeanette Williams Paul and Millie Slocum Eric and Anne Woelfel Jane Smedley and William Anzalone Marguerite D. Woelfel Alan Snelson and Dr. Donna Ayers Jim and Rebecca Wolfe Space and Time Professional Organizers Craig and Karen Yarrish Dr. George F. and Cathy Speace II Suzanne M. Young Sprau and Clements Dentistry Robert Stanley and Wilhelmina Hailstone ADVOCATE Bobbie Steever $50-$99 Maureen Givnin-Haas Verlon and Mary Lou Nichols Matt and Jill Stretanski Allen H. and Margaret W. Alexander Jean Gonchar Nick of Time Strive Multisport Jo M. Ayers Rich and Bonnie Gower Alex and Ann Nobile Studio M Back Mountain Bloomers Garden Club Robert and Evelyn Hagen Jim O’Connell Joe and Keiko Stusnick Heather Balester Ellie Harding and David Birchler Constance Orchard Amber Summers Krug Carol Baltimore Tammy Harris Vance Packard and Bonnie Smith Charles and Mary Annette Rawls Ronald and Mary Ann Swank Charles M. and Denny Barber Dr. Jon and Beverly Hart Gene Pelletier Harry and Liz Reich Sharon Templin Bartolai Winery Father John Hartman Michele Phillips Sandy Rhodes and Julie A. Dostal The Glen Summit Company David Bass Woody Haydt Pizza Perfect James P. Ridolfi and Marguerite Glaser The Lodge at Woodloch Bear Creek Inne Rodney Heckert Reeves Rent-A-John, Inc. James and Barbara Rogers The Upstairs Gallery Beckwith Maples Beverly Johnson Virginia G. Rivers Bobbi-Jo Romanishan Barbara A. Toczko-Maculloch and Dorrance R. and Susan Belin Wesley Keller Donald Rood and Beverly Mason J. David and Joan Roskos George Maculloch Bistro on the Avenue Erick and Darlene Kershner Stephen and Adina Rosenthal Michael and Mary Rosto Michael Tomalis and Theresa Gatusky Judge A. Richard and Rosemary Caputo Kevin’s Bar and Restaurant Bill and Joanne Runner Phillip Roth Michael Tonkin and Estelle Stevens Rita Cheskiewicz Lance and Sandra Kittelson Jack F. and Alice Sallada, Jr. Marshall and Anne Rumbaugh Trinity Artisans Chic Chic Marketplace John and Jennifer Kolessar Tammy Schane and Vincent Haas Theron I. and Pam Russell Brian and Chelsey Tupper M. Clark and Rita Conlon William and Catherine Kuklinski Roberta Schmied Rustique United Way of Wyoming Valley Janet A. Conser Dr. Paul and Alice Rae Kutish Sue Schmitthenner Sa-ka-ri Salon and Spa Stephen and Yvette Vanesko George and Maureen Conyngham Michael and Patricia M. Last Dan Scott Carlo and Jill Saporito Robert and Irene Wendoloski Creekside Gardens Gary and Benedetta Lawrence John and Mary Jo Shalanski Wilma A. Schierer Alixandra L.C. Westbrook Ingrid Cronin Marie Lewis Daniel and Bonnie Shane Annette Schultz Bruce and Gert Whipple Dave and Roberta Daniels Dr. William and Becky Loftus James and Robin Shedlauskas Charlie and Helen Schwarz Bob and Maureen Whipple Lady Deborah DeBilly dit Megan Lupek Shooze Courville Beauxvents Dr. Michael A. and Tina MacDowell Joe and Rose Slusark Swallow Tail Butterfly on Coneflower Dr. Wayne and Bonnie Dombroski Mattern’s Flora and Furnishings Bob and Ellen Smith Mark Drumin Sandy McGovern Jean Smith Janine Dymond Bernadette McHugh Rebecca F. Smith Joseph and Marguerite Eagen Metz Culinary Management Brent and Jill Snowdon Sanford and Maryann Evans Midway Garden Center Social Fabric Collective F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts Palmira Gregory Miller Dal Sperrazza Adam Ferrucci Cindy Post Mitchell Richard D. and Marilyn Stark Tina Fiorani James S. and Mary Ann S. Murphy Julie McCarthy Strzeletz Ed and Georgeann Frey Virginia Murphy Susan Charnetski Interior Design Linda Gearhart Patricia Neishel Susquehanna Brewing Co. Joe and Steve Germick Russell G. Newell The Beaumont Inn

12 North Branch Land Trust ❘ N 2016 AN UAL REPORT Christine Erb Megan Prynn Andrea Medura Heather Sinkiewicz Fire and Ice on Toby’s Creek Kevin and Adele Reilly Mark and Sandra Mellas George B. and Andrea Sordoni Jeanette Godlewski Steve Santini Brian and Karen Mohn John and Sharon Stevens Dick Goldberg and Rosemary Chromey Seasons Restaurant Megan Mould Janet Strish Michael M. Gondell Barry and Shirley Trievel Diane Olson James and Shirley Strohl Jan Teitsworth John Keker Helen Westenheffer Ken Osiecki Clark Riley The Atrium Restaurant Michael LoGrande SUPPORTER Christian Rivera Rob and Rosemary Vargo Janice Lohmann Under $25 Colleen Saltmer Jerome H. Weinberger Marianne Lurie Bill and Margaret Allen Jack Schieber Tom and Janet Whitefield Bonaventure Magrys Tammy Amico David Schinaly Jennifer Williams Victoria Martin Marcia Anos Joan Schooley and Fred Willauer Kyle Williams Clear Wing Hummingbird Moth John and Doris McQuade on Valmont Bog Orchid Fred Balester Michael Scott Molly Wright Bob Mercando Joan Bloss Charlotte Severcool Jessica Zielen Overbrook Pub and Grille Michael and Lois Brooks Don Sherwood Lenny Trolio Christine Owens Kathryn Byrnes Twigs Restaurant and Cafe Susan Petty Diane Cebula GIFTS IN MEMORIAL MATCHING GIFTS Carl Urbanski and Martha Shipe Philip and Molly Piazza Ray Clarke Contributions were made in The following organizations matched Fred Valentine Robert J. and Mary Ann Prymus Nicole Delevan memory of the following: contributions from members: Bob and Catherine Veleker Bob Quarteroni Catherine Elwell Michael J. McEvoy Benevity Community Impact Fund Nick Verbanic Judy Reap Judith Fellin Edward F. Sutherland Morgan Stanley Employee Donations Verve Vertu Art Studio Linda Jo Robbins Herb Flyte NBLT makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of these listings. If you find an omission Richard Ward Beverly Roberts John Fredericks or a misspelling, please excuse our error and contact us at [email protected] or Michele Schasberger and Michael Polgar Robert Freeman Dr. Brian E. Whitman call 570-310-1781 to update our records for future donor listings. Wild Birds Unlimited James Shoemaker Michele Galenty Theresa Stewart Bob and Barbara Gallagher Charles Wrobel Joanne Taras Raymond Youngblood Patricia Gallagher Adrienne Vanish Marty and Lynn George Ruth Whalen Nadine Ginocchetti SPONSOR Charlene Wildes GoodShop $30-$49 Ali and Doug Wilson Sandra Goodwin Russ Andrews Jim Witinski Carol Grabowski Dr. Joseph and Maureen Anistranski Lucia Harkenreader Nancy Baker STUDENT Bill Joseph John and Sandra Bensinger $25 Charles F. and Leah Kappler, IV John and Darlene Bero Richard P. and Jan Abramowitz Jeanne Kapral Michael Bertram Donald and Nancy Alonzo John and Mary Kopicki Barbara Barnes Tim Boyle Andrea Kosko Barbara Bradley Constance Kozel Mike Burnside Diva’s Nails Spa Allison Carpenter Joe and Karen Kutish Carole Ertley Jeannette Levan Frances Cavanaugh John and Mary Kopicki Kathryn Lietz Rylan Coker and Rebecca Lane Guthrie Mitchell Insurance Agency Scott and Jill Linde Barbara Craig, RSM Ray and Julie Iwanowski Bethanne McAndrew Dwight and Molly Davis Joanne Koval Bonnie McGeehan Suzanne Druffner Charlie and Marion Boyle Petrillo Sandy McGrady Bear Creek Preserve

2016N AN UAL REPORT ❘ North Branch Land Trust 13 2016 Annual Report 2016 Board of Directors & Staff

Financial Information Board of directors North Branch Land Trust financial statements are prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with James T. Shoemaker, Chair James DePolo Guthrie Mitchell Gary J. Swartz, Jr. standards established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) for external financial reporting by Christina Dilks Taylor, Vice Chair Stacey Fay Nicholas G. Ouellette Marleen A. Troy, Ph.D., P.E. non-profit organizations. The charts below provide a breakdown of where our operating funds come from and Michael D. Weaver, Treasurer James T. Gorman Walter “Chip” Sorber Scott Watkins, DMD how they are spent. As a community based non-profit, the Trust relies heavily on contributions from individuals, D. Kay Strickland, Secretary Joshua D. Katyl Matthew Sordoni John L. Zembruski, Esq businesses, and foundations within its service area. The Trust staff spends the majority of its time and resources on Elizabeth Eckman Lloyd Vincent Scarpetta land conservation projects and education and outreach activities. All funds raised stay local! Staff Reu S ven e By ource Paul Lumia, Executive Director Rebecca Smith, Outreach Coordinator Contributed Support 70.71% Contributed Support Rylan Coker, Land Protection & Stewardship Coordinator Laura Solomon, Land Steward Associate Earned Revenues 15.47% Earned Revenues Barbara Romanansky, Director of Development Lena Williams, Social Media & Communication Associate Ellen Parmenteri/Maureen Whipple, Office Administrator Special Events 13.82% Special Events TOTAL 100.00% EsyTxpen es b ype Cmmitteeso Program Services Annual Dinner Event Planning Land Sustainability Program Services 77.98% Rylan Coker, Chair Board Development Administrative Stacy Fay & Maggie Zembruski, Charlene Wildes, Chair Administrative 13.12% Dinner Co-Chairs Allan Dick Sarah Carr James T. Shoemaker, Chair Fundraising 8.90% Fundraising James T. Shoemaker, Deb Dick Elizabeth Eckman Lloyd William Conyngham TOTAL 100.00% Master of Ceremonies Paula Fall Tina Fiorani James DePolo Lissa Bryan-Smith Tina Fiorani Ellen Parmenteri Paul Lumia At year end 2016, North Branch Land Trust assets stood at about 5.5 million dollars, almost 70% of which are non- Kathleen Dunsmuir Brian Gettig Brian Stahl Guthrie Mitchell liquid land assets and assets set aside to monitor and defend conserved lands. James Gorman Ellie Harding D. Kay Strickland Nicolas Ouellette Joshua Katyl Jim Ridolfi Barbara Romanansky Currently the Trust has a modest endowment to help fund the organization’s operations. However, this endowment is Terri Kosakowski Barbara Romanansky Marketing Matthew Sordoni not large enough to support the entire budget and additional funds must be raised on an annual basis. It is the goal of Karen Labbate Christina Dilks Taylor, Chair Christina Dilks Taylor the North Branch Land Trust staff and Board of Directors to grow this endowment to a level that will support a robust Paul Lumia Finance John Bartorillo Michael Weaver conservation budget and the advancement of the Trust’s land conservation mission in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Olivia Lumia Michael Weaver, Chair Kathy Bozinski Thank you for your continued support! Barbara Toczko-Maculloch James DePolo Will Conyngham Taste the Cathy McHugh James Gorman Paul Lumia Local Harvest Marilyn Millington Paul Lumia Nicholas Ouellette Barbara Romanansky, Chair Exploring Thomas Darling Preserve Amanda Ouellette Ellen Parmenteri Barbara Romanansky Terri Kosalowski Barbara Romanansky Matthew Sordoni James Shoemaker Paul Lumia Bobbi-Jo Romanishan Cathy McHugh Rebecca Smith Howland Preserve Picton Wildlife Maureen Whipple Jill Snowdon Management Sanctuary Management Scott Watkins David Buck, Chair Tina Fiorani, Chair Volunteer Maureen Whipple Sarah Carr Dave Birchler Property Lena Williams Rylan Coker Allan Dick Monitors Jeff Fleming Jr. Deb Dick John Bessinger Bulk Mailing Volunteers Jeff Fleming Sr. Paula Fall Sandy Bessinger Sarah Carr Paul Lumia Brian Gettig Cindy Beaumariage Suzanne Druffner Raymond Massacesi Mike Gondell Tom Delehanty Sister Constance Kozel Mark Mellas Ellie Harding David Estep Carol Lizell Colleen Nardoni Patty Horn Paula Fall Jan Lohmann Anthony Palischak Ted Horn Tina Fiorani Constance Orchard Barbara Romanansky Jim Ridolfi Brian Gettig Elaine Palischak Walter “Chip” Sorber Bob Romanansky Mike Gondell Tony Palischak Sharon Templin Charlene Wildes Dave Jenkins Eugene Pelletier Maureen Whipple Ray Youngblood Kate Jenkins Paul Pryor Bob Whipple Megan Lupek Rachelle Pryor Ali Wilson Risk Management Committee Bob Romanansky Mary Annette Rawls Doug Wilson D. Kay Strickland, Chair D. Kay Strickland Bobbie Schmied Edward Zygmunt Rylan Coker Mike Tonkin Bruce Troy Stacey Fay Edward Zygmunt Gary Williams Guthrie Mitchell Scott Watkins, DMD

14 North Branch Land Trust ❘ N 2016 AN UAL REPORT Membership in North Branch Land Trust Helps Conserve What Matters Most! PHOTO CREDITS: Renew your membership, become a member or give a gift membership today! MIKE BURNSIDE Page 13: NLT’s Bear Creek Preserve MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION Leadership Levels RYLAN COKER Name(s):______Page 11: Eastern Garter Snake ❑ North Branch Guardian...... $5,000 Address:______❑ Conservation Society...... $2,500-$4,999 TINA FIORANI ❑ Stewardship Society...... $1,000-$2,499 City, State, Zip:______Page 3: The Joy of Discovery, Boots to the Ground, Exploring in all seasons, Education ❑ Benefactor...... $500-$999 Phone:______❑ Leader...... $250-$499 Email:______JIM HOYSON Front Cover: Female Wood Duck Supporting Levels GIFT MEMBERSHIP RECIPIENT ❑ Patron...... $100-$249 INTERNET Address:______Page 6: Council Cup ❑ Advocate...... $50-$99 ❑ Sponsor...... $35-$49 City, State, Zip: ______ALLISON MASLOW Phone:______Page 11: Rainbow over Hillside Membership runs from July 1 to June 30 Email: ______NBLT MATCHING GIFT PROGRAM For additional gift memberships, write their contact information on a separate paper. Page 2: Bluebells Does your company have a matching gift North Branch Land Trust is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Your contribution is tax deductible to the fullest Page 3: Traveling with NBLT on Safari, South Africa program? Please check box if your matching extent permitted by law. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the PA Page 7: Blue Curls; Department of State. Call (800) 732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. Page 12: Ruby Crowned Kinglet Bullfrog gift form is enclosed: ❑ Make check payable to North Branch Land Trust RICH PRIES 251 Huntsville-Idetown Road, Dallas, PA 18612 or, ❑ Please remove my name from your mailing list. Page 3: White Tail Fawn; to make an online payment, visit www.nblt.org Page 10: Widow Skimmer; Back Cover: Great Blue Heron BARB ROMANANSKY For more information send an email to [email protected] or call our office (570) 310-1781 Page 3: Giraffes & Zebras, South Africa

Conservation has to become an absolute priority, because if North Branch Land Trust we lose nature that’s 251 Huntsville-Idetown Road Dallas, PA 18612 the end of us. We can’t Phone: (570) 310-1781 “ live without it. Fax: (570) 310-1791 ~ Jane Goodall Email: [email protected] Website: www.NBLT.org

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Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. Those who contemplate the beauty of the “earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. ~ Rachel Carson”