WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA CONSERVANCY 2019 ANNUAL REPORT MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT On behalf of the board and staff of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, we are pleased to be able to provide this report on our programs and projects during 2019. We could never have achieved these outcomes without your support. Even though this annual report highlights efforts and outcomes of the last The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy protects and calendar year, I would be remiss in not sharing some of the valuable insights restores exceptional places to provide our region with we have gained over the past few months of 2020. When Pennsylvania was in LAND CONSERVATION clean waters and healthy forests, wildlife and natural the “red” and “yellow” phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, our work continued areas for the benefit of present and future generations. even while we worked remotely. We appreciated the support of our members, To date, the Conservancy has permanently protected donors and volunteers who stayed in touch through that time. Thankfully our more than 262,000 acres of natural lands. The nimble and adaptable board and staff sorted out ways to keep our work going. Our greatest challenge was at Conservancy also creates green spaces and gardens, Fallingwater because there the site had to be closed to the public. We recently reopened it for outdoor-only contributing to the vitality of our cities and towns, and self-guided and guided tours. preserves Fallingwater, a symbol of people living in harmony with nature. Now that we’re in the “green” phase in Pennsylvania, we have been able to work together more, socially distanced, and it’s good to see our colleagues, partners and volunteers more, while much work still remains remote. I have appreciated that work has continued to be done in recent months at those different phases, OFFICERS and conservation outcomes have been accomplished even in these challenging times. And our conversations Susan Fitzsimmons Chair have deepened as we reflect on how, for our conservation movement to be successful, it needs more than Stephen G. Robinson Vice Chair ever to be inclusive and within a framework of racial justice and equity for all. Daniel S. Nydick Treasurer With all the complexities of these times, I’m pleased we can still report on exciting results across our Debra H. Dermody Secretary programs. In our land conservation program, we acquired a farm in Mercer County for our farmland access initiative, both to preserve the farmland and to make it accessible at reasonable costs to farmers wanting to lease it and grow local, organic foods for our regional food supply. We have acquired several donated BOARD OF DIRECTORS conservation easements, added land to our nature reserves and protected properties from the French Creek David E. Barensfeld Bala Kumar watershed to the Laurel Highlands to Centre County near State College. H. Lewis Lobdell Franklin Blackstone, Jr.* Our natural heritage program has done research and field surveys to protect rare birds, plants and other Barbara Bott Robert T. McDowell species, and monitored habitats for rare species. Our watershed conservation team has restored miles of WPC protected nearly 400 acres in 2019 that expanded WPC’s West Branch French Creek Conservation Area in Erie County. E. Michael Boyle Paul J. Mooney rivers and streams, completing projects ranging from abandoned mine drainage remediation to stream William Conrad Carolyn Rizza, Ph.D. bank stabilization to riparian tree plantings. Our gardens and greenspace program has planted trees and community gardens in our cities and towns and installed green spaces on school grounds where children can Together with our members, funders and landowners, the Conservancy landowners and the Conservancy to protect conservation values of Geoffrey P. Dunn, M.D. Jean Robinson* learn outside and enjoy nature. protects land that safeguards wildlife habitats, forests, rivers and land by limiting future development. Beverlynn Elliott Jennifer Shuey streams and farmland. These lands also provide access to the public James C. Finley, Ph. D. Samuel H. Smith A high mark for the year was the inscription of Fallingwater on the UNESCO World Heritage List — an for recreation and relaxation. One admirable quality conservation-minded people have in common, exciting outcome for the Conservancy, and only 20 short years in the making. Dan B. Frankel Alexander C. Speyer, III says WPC Vice President of Land Conservation Shaun Fenlon, is their Dennis Fredericks K. William Stout One additional note as we look back over the year and then where we are now: During this worldwide In 2019, that work continued, with 2,473 additional acres protected, unwavering commitment to preserving land for the benefit of future Felix G. Fukui Timothy R. Thyreen pandemic and all the accompanying impacts on the economy and businesses, we appreciate all of your bringing the total WPC-conserved land in the region to more than generations. Caryle R. Glosser, Ph.D. Megan Turnbull help with the financial challenges of these unusual times. Fallingwater’s revenue is a fraction of its normal 260,000 acres. The following summary highlights a few of the 13 land levels, and all our programs are looking for support to keep revenues close to their usual levels. It is Stephen Guinn, Ph.D. Joshua C. Whetzel, III conservation project outcomes in 2019. “When landowners are moved to donate an easement they invariably interesting to recall the resolve of WPC’s founders to create this organization 88 years ago during the Great Carolyn Hendricks, M.D. *Emeritus Directors Depression, one of the most challenging times in our nation’s history. That same resolve will help ensure have deep connections to their land and recognize how it can continue the Conservancy’s legacy, as we navigate the current challenges. We are grateful for your commitment and Donated Conservation Easements: Gifts of Land Benefit All benefitting the greater good,” says Shaun. “Everyone benefits from PRESIDENT AND CEO support. Conservation-minded landowners are the backbone of local and their singular act of generosity.” national conservation efforts, and the pillars of many conservation Thomas D. Saunders On behalf of the board and staff, I hope you enjoy this annual report. Most of all, I hope that you, your friends movements past and present, addressing issues such as climate Marcia Bonta and her husband, Bruce, are among those landowners. and your families will all be well in the months ahead. Thank you for all that you are doing, in so many ways, For information on WPC and membership | 412-288-2777 to support the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. change and endangered species. Last year, landowners of five Marcia authored nine books, including a series about observations of 1-866-564-6972 | [email protected] | WaterLandLife.org properties in Blair, Sullivan, Venango and Westmoreland counties seasonal plants and animals on their forested property in Blair County. protected their land by donating conservation easements to the On Earth Day, they donated an easement on their 648-acre land fondly Cover: Fallingwater, now on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Conservancy. Conservation easements are legal agreements between Cover photo by Christopher Little Thomas D. Saunders PRESIDENT AND CEO

2 Western Pennsylvania Conservancy 2019 Annual Report 3 denoted as Plummer’s Hollow. The property “Long before my ancestors settled on this The first seedlings will be planted to start includes stands of trees that have not been land, it belonged to the Paleo-Indians who the orchard in fall 2020, which is anticipated LAND STEWARDSHIP WPC owns 46 properties totaling more than 14,400 acres timbered since 1815. Now maturing to old- inhabited our land and river valleys for to yield apples in about six to 10 years. that are open free to nature lovers of all ages for a variety growth forest, these trees provide essential centuries. We possess the land, but ultimately Efforts are currently underway to finalize of recreation options including, hiking, fishing, hunting and habitat for native species that rely on mature it belongs to nature to benefit us all. It’s up to a lease on the property’s second farm to wildlife watching. forests for their lifecycles. us to be good stewards while this land is in another operator. our care. Through this donation, we’re doing Sustaining the ecological values of and improving the “We want to make sure the property can just that,” Court adds. This farm, along with a Westmoreland properties we own is an important and ongoing priority remain as an example of a relatively unspoiled County farm that WPC purchased on Earth of our land protection work in order to help make these natural environment and help alleviate the Michael Blehar and Beth Evans donated an Day in 2020, expand on the Conservancy’s natural areas enjoyable, accessible for nature experiences effects of climate change,” she says. easement on their 22-acre property in Cook longstanding practice of leasing a portion of for you and your family. Township, Westmoreland County, which is its 400-acre Plain Grove Fens Natural Area Land along the Allegheny River in President mainly forested and buffering Fourmile Run, in Lawrence County for farming. Currently New Trails Open, Improved for the Public to Explore Township, Venango County, has been in Court a tributary to Loyalhanna Creek. “Nature Fallen Aspen Farm leases 57 acres there to At a ceremony in May in Somerset County, a new hiking Gould’s family for seven generations. His soothes what ails you, making you slow down raise produce and livestock for Pittsburgh- trail and observation deck was officially opened and donated easement on their 309 acres helps and breathe,” Michael says. “Doing what you area restaurants. dedicated to honor the conservation legacy of the late protect Johnston Run, which flows through can to preserve nature and its many benefits is Joshua C. Whetzel, Jr., who served as president and chief the property. Because the waters are cold and important to us.” More Public Land for Anglers, Hikers, executive officer of WPC from 1969 to 1978. pristine, the stream is designated Exceptional Hunters and Nature Lovers Value by the PA Department of Environmental Opportunities for Farmers Progress WPC-owned reserves in Erie, Bedford and Many successful conservation projects were achieved in Protection. Court says the easement also Leasing land to more small-scale farmers Fayette counties expanded in 2019. In Erie the 1970s under Josh’s leadership, including protecting honors his father and the indigenous people of became a reality in 2019 through the County, 390 acres expanded the West the first segment of the Great Allegheny Passage Trail. Western Pennsylvania. Conservancy’s farmland access initiative, Branch French Creek Conservation Area to “My dad was ahead of his time in his thinking and acting a program to help support the local food nearly 1,000 acres. The property is open to on conservation. He could really see things that needed economy by making land more accessible to the public and protects six miles of forested to be done or acquired,” says current WPC board local farmers. land along the West Branch French Creek, member Joshua Whetzel, III, regarding his father’s a major tributary to French Creek, the most visionary leadership. On WPC’s farmland near Grove City in Mercer biologically diverse stream of its size in the County, the Westsylvania Cider Co., owned northeastern United States. At the 1,500-acre Bennett Branch Forest in Elk and by Chris and Sarah Kubiak, will farm about 10 Clearfield counties, the 3.6-mile trail was improved in acres to plant trees for an apple orchard for At 370 acres, WPC’s Sideling Hill Creek 2019. It takes hikers through forests of mixed oak, sugar organic hard cider production. Rare heirloom Conservation Area in Bedford and Fulton maple, black birch and beautiful hemlock groves. Back- varieties including Newtown Pippin, Harrison, counties is an important area of biodiversity country camping is permitted, as is mountain biking on Hewes Virginia Crab and Grimes Golden, because it protects the unique shale barrens designated trails. This forest adjoins Moshannon State which were grown in Western Pennsylvania plant community, forests and several globally Forest, making a contiguous expanse of public land in this more than 100 years ago, will be planted. rare plants. This natural area was expanded scenic, natural region. by 100 acres last year, adding more forest Ciders will be derived from real fruit, says buffer along sections of Sideling Hill Creek, Work at Toms Run Advanced, Trail Completed in 2020 Chris, and unfiltered, unsulfated and with no a tributary to the Potomac River. The creek Thanks to assistance from several volunteers, the 3-mile added flavorings or sugars. “Like wine, these is home to populations of rare freshwater trail at Toms Run Nature Reserve in Allegheny County took ciders will have a uniqueness and complexity mussels. Although not for the novice major steps towards completion in 2019. Located 10 miles found nowhere else in the world, and we want outdoorsperson due to its rugged and from downtown Pittsburgh in western Allegheny County to use it as a means to educate people on steep terrain, this conservation area is open near I-79 and Route 65, Toms Run Nature Reserve has the history of cider, organic and sustainable to the public for fishing and hunting. The About 30 people attended a special ceremony in been protected by WPC since 1977; it is open to the public WPC’s West Branch French Creek Conservation Area apple growing, and interconnections with Conservancy also added important acreage to May 2019 to dedicate the new Joshua C. Whetzel, for hiking, nature watching, hunting and birding. in Erie County now protects six miles of forested land ecosystems,” he adds. Bear Run Nature Reserve along the approach Jr. Trail in Westmoreland County, which has along the West Branch French Creek, a major tributary to Fallingwater (read more on page 9).  an observation area overlooking the southern In 2019, volunteers attended several workdays to help to French Creek. edge of Confluence, portions of the Great Allegheny Passage Trail and the Casselman and clear debris, including old tires, appliances and waste, Youghiogheny rivers. pull invasive plants and mark the trail’s path. The trail,

4 Western Pennsylvania Conservancy 2019 Annual Report 5 The Conservancy’s team of more than 20 a visit.” Tryon-Weber Woods in Crawford Along with our Pennsylvania Game scientists continued their work in field and County and Lake Pleasant Conservation Commission partners, during a one-year stream, documenting and assessing the Area and Wattsburg Fen Natural Area in Erie study, David examined where suitable CONSERVATION SCIENCE locations of native, rare and endangered County are among Charles’ favorite places in grassland habitat is currently located across plants and animals, while working on various the region to explore nature. the state and identified more than 5,000 projects to improve and protect wildlife potential sites for grassland bird conservation. habitats. Map of Biodiversity Importance Advances Bird counts were conducted at 38 of these Christopher Tracey, natural heritage program sites to help prioritize conservation actions. Assessing Properties to Improve Stewarding conservation planning manager for WPC, While work activities concluded in early 2020, WPC Senior Director of Conservation Science and Molly Moore, a WPC GIS specialist, spent the project will continue to provide guidance Charles Bier spent most of the spring and much of 2019 working on a national project to conservation organizations statewide over summer months visiting WPC-owned nature to combine 40 years of natural heritage the next several years. reserves and natural areas to conduct information. and document ecological observations and assessments. WPC-owned properties As part of the team of scientists and A 3-mile trail at Toms Run Nature Reserve in Allegheny County protect species and habitats, and provide specialists from across the NatureServe is now complete and welcomes you to hike and explore! recreation and watershed protection Network, they provided their expertise to help an ADA-accessible pathway and a parking area among other benefits. His work will result create the Map of Biodiversity Importance to accommodate school buses are all completed. in vital information to guide and prioritize (MoBI). This work, done in partnership with The installation of trail and educational signs is management decisions for each property. Esri, Microsoft and The Nature Conservancy, expected to conclude in late summer 2020. used GIS data to model the habitats for more “It was good to spend time assessing rare than 2,200 of the country’s most imperiled The reserve has been used as an outdoor classroom species plant communities and habitat plant and animal species. MoBI will help by the Pittsburgh Environmental Charter School conditions at many of our properties. Similar conservation organizations, land managers and other schools over the past several years. to the challenges many landowners in our and land trusts utilize biodiversity data to help region face, we too are finding an increase of make effective conservation decisions. invasive species growing on our properties. Reestablishing a Native Forest at Bear Run At 5,100-acre Bear Run Nature Reserve in Fayette That’s concerning and something I certainly MoBI uses the Esri GIS platform to provide County, WPC’s stewardship staff is gradually documented in my assessments,” Charles a national view of an area’s biodiversity and comments. potential conservation targets. “There’s a lot converting conifer stands planted in the late 1950s Searching for Mussels in the Ohio to a native mixed deciduous forest. of information now right at our fingertips that Management plans are established for all we did not have access to before. It’s a game In a multi-year study that concluded in 2019, WPC scientists from the PA Natural Heritage This is being accomplished by cutting or girdling WPC properties, providing roadmaps for changer for conservation decision-making WPC’s stewardship staff on how to care for and prioritizing at the local and state levels,” Program and watershed conservation program (removing the bark in horizonal bands around conducted research in the Ohio River to see if trunks of trees) small group selections of conifer the land. For example, some of the non-native says Christopher. MoBI made its national invasive plants Charles documented could be debut in February 2020 and can be found at the endangered salamander mussel and other trees, and allowing those trees to die naturally and, mussel species were present in the river’s when fallen, decay on the reserve over many years. pulled rather treated with herbicide. And his natureserve.org. assessments identified plants, such as native slow waters and silty substrates. Our scientists As a result of this girdling, sunlight through small found 13 freshwater mussel species in the Ohio canopy openings will reach the forest floor and ginseng, that were not known to grow on Prioritizing Grassland Conservation for Birds WPC properties. Heading north to their Pennsylvania nesting River, which is considered promising given the encourage the growth of native deciduous trees industrialized pollution a century ago harmed such as red maple, tulip tree, American beech and grounds, migratory birds face threats — in “So, it’s not all bad news,” Charles assures. particular, habitat loss. Some migratory birds aquatic life in the river. Funding from a PA various oaks. Inventory work on this project will Wildlife Grant and Wild Resource Conservation continue through 2020.  “WPC properties host some of the most depend on open grasslands such as hayfields, unique and beautiful natural characteristics herbaceous meadows and farmland, but Program supported this research.  found in the region. From the wetlands on these places are shrinking across the U.S. preserves in the northwest to the dry, shale WPC Ornithologist David Yeany is working to Lake Pleasant in Erie County is a part of a protected and important conservation area barrens in Bedford County, they are all worth help save habitat for bird species such as the owned and managed by WPC. Staff work to keep the area ecologically healthy by upland sandpiper and Henslow’s sparrow. trying to control invasive species in the lake and surrounding wetlands.

6 Western Pennsylvania Conservancy 2019 Annual Report 7 World Heritage Achieved Business Accelerator at Bridgeway Capital, Led by teaching artist Ivan Chow, another Fallingwater is now on the UNESCO World needed a partner to sell artisans’ products, new residency program in 2019 provided an Heritage List. the journey led them to Fallingwater. opportunity for students entering grades 10 through 12 to examine and explore Wright’s It took more than 20 years of planning and “Designing products for Fallingwater offered ideas and philosophy. This drawing intensive preparation for this international honor that an excellent opportunity for artists to have residency launched with strong interest, as a FALLINGWATER substantiates Frank Lloyd Wright as the most fun with design, create innovative designs and total of more than 50 students participated in significant American architect of the 20th sell their products, with the added benefit the sessions offered in the spring and fall. century. Fallingwater was inscribed to the list of the artists on July 10, 2019, along with seven other Wright- experiencing and “Mr. Chow has been an artist and designed buildings from across the country as learning from the architect for more than 30 years; part of a serial nomination. expert staff at he practiced the art of travel Fallingwater,” says sketching throughout the world “This irrefutable World Heritage designation Katie Johnson, and we’re honored to have him forever acknowledges Wright’s profound CBA’s business impart his knowledge to us and our influence and decades-long contribution to support and participants,” Ashley says. This new modern architecture,” says Fallingwater Director impact specialist. residency is also being offered in and WPC Vice President Justin Gunther. 2020 through a hands-on, virtual Fallingwater experience. Wright designed Fallingwater for the partnered with Kaufmanns, a family that longed for and loved Monmade to Fallingwater + Monmade Design Both residencies are part of the nature, who wanted their weekend home create the Residency participants representing Fallingwater Institute, which provides intertwined with the surrounding landscape of Fallingwater Jowdy Studio, Collarbone Jewelry and various immersive programs trees and stream. + Monmade Otto Fin, along with Katie Johnson from throughout the year that are Bridgeway Capital, are photographed Design Residency at the Fallingwater Museum Store available to students, designers, Director Emerita of Fallingwater Lynda (FMDR). In April, standing in front of their creations artists and educators to foster Waggoner, who spent decades spearheading a participants had inspired by their immersive experience collaborative thinking and challenge team of Wright experts for the World Heritage full access to at Fallingwater. current thoughts, ideals and ideas effort on behalf of the Frank Lloyd Wright Fallingwater’s related to design and architecture. Building Conservancy, says without Wright our grounds and collections. Through their In 2019, more than 300 people experienced architecture today would be very different. immersion, they gained inspiration to create Fallingwater through our residency jewelry, porcelain and stone bowls, fine art opportunities. “These eight buildings sum up modern prints, fashion accessories and more. architecture in their open plans, abstraction Protecting the Gateway to Fallingwater of form, use of new technology, connection to “Fostering business development and The forested approach to Fallingwater will nature and ability to adapt to modern living,” creativity in our region’s Mon Valley remain intact now that four acres, which she adds. communities was an added benefit of this include more than 600 feet of frontage unique residency,” says Fallingwater Curator along Route 381 in Stewart Township, were Now that World Heritage is achieved, of Education Ashley Andrykovitch. “It’s protected last April. The property is entirely preserving Fallingwater is more critical our hope that inspiration, creativity and forested and has been added to the 5,119-acre than ever. “Fallingwater is an irreplaceable discovery become lifelong pursuits for these Bear Run Nature Reserve. landmark for all of humanity to learn from and and all of our residency participants.” experience, and our commitment to safeguard Although it’s small in acreage, the property it for future generations is stronger now than The products created by participants will have a big impact on safeguarding the ever,” Justin adds. are still available for sale through scenic views and forested areas along this the Fallingwater Museum Store, at stretch of the Laurel Highlands Scenic New Residency Programs Offer More FallingwaterMuseumStore.org. Search Byway, which is characterized by rolling Opportunity, Creativity for the Monmade items within the hillsides, forests, picturesque farmlands and, When Monmade, a project of Pittsburgh’s Craft FMDR Collection. of course, Fallingwater. 

8 Western Pennsylvania Conservancy 2019 Annual Report 9 an accessible community. We applaud the Redbud Project, Conservancy staff and Establishing a Vital Community Forestry Western Pennsylvania Conservancy for being volunteers planted 1,557 trees and 310 shrubs Model COMMUNITY intentional in creating a world that is just a in 2019. The Conservancy conducts street- and little bit bigger for everyone.” park-tree inventories in partnership with In Erie, 50 volunteers from Gannon University communities, assessing tree location, GARDENS & GREENSPACE At Pittsburgh Pioneer Education Center and the Rotary Club of Erie helped to species, size, condition and safety status. in the city’s Brookline neighborhood, the plant 45 trees along downtown streets. Using the information collected, we provide Conservancy made enhancements to a This was the Gannon students’ fifth year recommendations for implementing tree sensory garden by planting a variety of of volunteering during their spring Day of plantings or green infrastructure projects. native perennials and purchasing an indoor Giving. Since 2013, the Conservancy has In Clairton and Harrison, stakeholders and growing station, an adaptive watering hose been working with the Erie Community residents wanted to improve their urban and a cedar storage shed, all thanks to a Foundation, Erie Downtown Partnership, the forests. We completed an inventory, assessed grant from Pennsylvania American Water. City of Erie and other community groups and vacant sites that could be planted with new The garden, built with the help of the volunteers to restore the urban tree canopy. trees and provided ideas for planting sites. Conservancy in 2010, utilizes plants and The 2019 planting brought the total number Our tree suggestions resulted in 25 trees various structures and features that stimulate of Conservancy-planted trees in Erie to 280. being planted in Clairton and 64 in Harrison children with physical, mental and multiple in 2019. disabilities through touch, scent, sound, color To help improve the quality of life and and texture. the environment in the Pittsburgh region, “I wholeheartedly believe trees have the TreeVitalize Pittsburgh planted 667 trees in power to transform communities and The RAD and PA American Water grants 31 low-tree canopy Pittsburgh neighborhoods lives,” says Charles Dizard, councilman for also enabled WPC to purchase specialty including Homewood, South Side Flats Harrison. As of 2019, volunteers had planted gardening tools to help make gardening and downtown Pittsburgh and multiple nearly 200 trees there through TreeVitalize easier for volunteers with disabilities and Allegheny County communities, including Pittsburgh, beautifying parks, streets and physical limitations at our 132 community the City of Clairton, Harrison Township and school grounds.  gardens in 20 counties across the region. Verona Borough. We accomplished this with the help of our TreeVitalize Pittsburgh Growing a New Community Garden partners Allegheny County Parks, the City People in Wilkinsburg, Allegheny County, of Pittsburgh, Tree Pittsburgh and the PA are enjoying a beautiful flower garden on Department of Conservation and Natural Gannon University students and other community members volunteered Ardmore Boulevard where there was once Resources. As of 2019, staff and volunteers to help restore the urban tree canopy in Erie. just a concrete traffic median. During the have planted more than 33,000 trees through spring of 2019, 40 volunteers, including TreeVitalize Pittsburgh! More than 11,000 garden volunteers, 19 new garden stewards and ADA-accessible community flower garden at an existing WPC community volunteers from Princeton Park nearly 850 community forestry volunteers helped continue to community flower garden site in the city’s Homewood neighborhood Block Club and from financial sponsors Pittsburgh’s riverfronts got an extra splash of beautify communities by planting and caring for flower gardens at Frankstown Road and Bennett Street. Guardian Storage, WTAE-TV and Security color in 2019 with the addition of 890 trees and trees throughout the region in 2019. With the support of Systems of America, helped us plant the and 310 shrubs as part of the Pittsburgh local foundations and private donors, it is now easier for people Students placed mums within five wheelchair-accessible raised colorful and welcoming garden, which Redbud Project, bringing the number of trees with disabilities and physical limitations to participate in activities flower beds connected by crushed limestone rock pathways. As part features native, pollinator-friendly perennials planted through the project to more than including school grounds greening projects, installing a new of their outdoor classroom and nature curriculum, students visit and annuals. 3,400. Residents and visitors to the city will community garden and planting thousands of trees. regularly to help volunteers from Delta Sigma Theta Sorority plant enjoy seeing and smelling the vibrant spring and care for native perennials and annual flowers. Restoring the Region’s Tree Canopy blooms from trees planted last spring and fall Enhancing the Gardening Experience for Everyone Trees provide numerous benefits including along River Avenue, on Allegheny Landing The Conservancy expanded opportunities in 2019 to make it easier Funded by the Allegheny Regional Asset District, the ADA- cleaner air, higher property values and water and at PNC Park, near Station Square and The for people with disabilities or other physical limitations to participate accessible garden offers people of all ages with disabilities the conservation, to name just a few. Through Glasshouse apartments on the Monongahela in gardening. In September, students from The Day School at The opportunity to enjoy gardening, according to Wendy Pardee, CEO several tree-planting efforts including River, and along North Shore Riverfront Park A new community garden, planted and maintained with Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh helped open Pittsburgh’s second of The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh. “We strongly believe in TreeVitalize Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh and near Carnegie Science Center. the help of community volunteers, beautified Ardmore Boulevard in Wilkinsburg, Allegheny County.

10 Western Pennsylvania Conservancy 2019 Annual Report 11 Celebrating 10 Years of Improving Stream The Conservancy’s watershed conservation Access WATERSHED CONSERVATION team actively worked to restore the region’s Thanks to the generosity of two longtime watersheds, improve aquatic habitats WPC members, more people are getting on and provide paddlers with access to local the water! streams and rivers. They searched for Eastern hellbender salamanders at 26 new sites Founded in 2008 and funded by the and planted thousands of riparian trees — generosity of Conservancy donors and improving a total of 10.66 stream miles in outdoor enthusiasts Roy Weil and Mary Shaw, 2019. our Canoe Access Development Fund provides grants to watershed organizations and other Improving Stream Health with Thousands of community groups to develop and improve Riparian Trees access sites for canoeists, kayakers and The Conservancy’s watershed conservation anglers. Conservancy staff also helps grant Watershed conservation staff worked with landowners to improve staff and volunteers plant trees and shrubs, their riparian areas and stream health by planting trees and shrubs. recipients with planning and site preparation. such as silver maples and elderberry The first projects supported by the fund were bushes, to restore waterways and improve implemented in 2009. water quality. The areas where land meets for Waterways and Rivers. The Conservancy in 2019, recognizing its importance as waterways, called riparian zones, buffer partnered in a slate of yearlong River of the an indicator species for clean water. The In 2019 we provided grants for partners to pollutants from streams and provide wildlife Year outreach and education events that Conservancy has monitored hellbender create or improve nine canoe access sites habitat. Conservancy staff works with reached thousands of participants. populations since 2007. Although not listed on local streams and rivers, including the landowners who want to improve their riparian as an endangered species, this salamander, Conemaugh River in Westmoreland County areas and stream health by planting trees and We co-hosted a 24-mile paddling sojourn on which can grow to be two feet long and live and the Connoquenessing Creek in Butler shrubs. the Clarion River for 34 participants and held for 50 years, is a species of concern due to County, bringing the total number of access two Clarion River cleanups in cooperation with declining populations. Its presence is a great sites funded since 2009 to 76. In 2019, Conservancy staff, conservation county conservation districts, Trout Unlimited indicator of a stream’s long-term health — it partners, landowners and volunteers planted and local schools throughout the watershed. prefers flowing, well-oxygenated streams — Barry Tuscano, longtime Conservancy 10,833 riparian trees and shrubs on 49 acres, During just two days of cleanup events, 112 but it faces many threats, including habitat member and paddling enthusiast, says, “By bringing our riparian plantings to more than volunteers cleaned up 37 miles of the river. loss and degradation from dams and industrial making river access easy, more people will 55,000 trees since 2001. pollution. be introduced to our rivers. Rivers are where As part of our events to help celebrate the people fall in love with the natural world. If you We planted riparian trees in 10 counties Clarion River in 2019, we helped to improve The Conservancy has traditionally used want to protect nature, get more people on in Western and Central Pennsylvania — a riparian buffer on a private property on the SCUBA surveys and a method of lifting and the water.”  Armstrong, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cameron, Clarion River near Belltown. The Conservancy turning over rocks and logs to find this elusive Clarion, Greene, Indiana, Potter and Warren — planted 30 riparian trees and 70 live-stem critter. We continued to use a technique called with the most in Potter County: 3,167 trees on stakes. Live-stem staking is a method of soil eDNA (environmental deoxyribonucleic acid) 14.7 acres. bioengineering where cut stems of trees are as a first step to determine if hellbenders transplanted into stream banks where they might be present in a stream. It involves Funding from foundations, individuals and take root and grow to offer stability, control collecting a water sample, filtering it and government grants make this work possible. erosion and enhance riparian habitat. An sending it to a conservation partner geneticist additional 100 live stakes were planted at to test for hellbender DNA. If we get a positive Protecting the Pennsylvania River of the Year another private property near Hallton. result from the geneticist, we return to The Conservancy has done extensive land complete a lift and turn survey. protection and watershed restoration work Using eDNA to Search for Our State to benefit the Clarion River since the 1970s. Amphibian In 2019, we completed eDNA work on 26 In 2019, this picturesque river was named To generate greater awareness of the new locations in the Driftwood Branch of the The Riverside Canoe Access site in Johnstown, Pennsylvania River of the Year by the PA importance of clean waterways in the Sinnemahoning Creek watershed. We found Cambria County, was one of nine such sites created or Department of Conservation and Natural commonwealth, Pennsylvania named the two locations with low concentrations of DNA improved in 2019 with funding by WPC’s Canoe Access Volunteers participated in cleanups on 37 miles of the present, and we’ll survey those in 2020. Development Fund. Clarion River, the 2019 Pennsylvania River of the Year. Resources and the Pennsylvania Organization Eastern hellbender as the state amphibian

12 Western Pennsylvania Conservancy 2019 Annual Report 13 2019 FINANCIAL SUMMARY WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR GENEROUS DONORS The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy was supported by 9,435 private donors, individuals, corporations, foundations and organizations Contributions, Grants & that together made cash, stock and in-kind gifts totaling $8,211,853 in 2019. Their support is playing a significant role in advancing WPC’s OPERATING REVENUES Memberships MILLIONS mission of protecting water, land and life in Western Pennsylvania. Individual $3.8 We are extremely grateful for your support. The accomplishments included in this Annual Report are the direct result of your ongoing Foundation 3.7 GOVERNMENT dedication and investment in the Conservancy. Each year we look forward to recognizing you in this publication. This year we’ve BUSINESS 25% Business 0.6 decreased the size of the report as part of the cost-cutting measures necessitated by the impacts of COVID-19. As a result, we deeply 2% Government 6.3 regret that we are not able to list individual donors this year. FOUNDATIONS The support of our annual donors, along with the generous future commitments of our Heritage Circle members, provides transformational 14% Earned Income MILLIONS support for the Conservancy to conserve our beautiful region now and in the future. We could not do this work without you! Fallingwater Admissions 5.2 FALLINGWATER ADMISSIONS Sales (Gift Shop/Café) 2.6 How You Can Continue to Help 20% Other 0.7 The Conservancy relies on the support of more than 9,000 member households and more than 11,000 volunteers to fulfill its mission INDIVIDUAL to conserve water, land and life. Your continued involvement will ensure that this work continues. 15% Internal Income MILLIONS Investment Return for 2.8 Annual Fund Special Gifts Gifts to the annual fund are essential in sustaining our daily SALES Current Operations The Conservancy deeply appreciates gifts of appreciated INVESTMENT 10% RETURN OTHER operations. These vital contributions enable the Conservancy to stock, real estate property, in-kind gifts and multi-year 11% 3% carry out its mission throughout the year. You can also provide commitments in support of our programs. Please contact TOTAL $25.7 dependable income for the Conservancy and Fallingwater by the Conservancy’s development office at 412-586-2336 or making your annual gift through convenient monthly deductions [email protected] for more information. via credit card or debit card from a designated financial account. Take Advantage of CARES Act’s Tax Benefits OPERATING EXPENSES Programs MILLIONS Leadership Circle and Kaufmann Society In March, Congress signed into law the CARES Act, a $2 trillion The Conservancy’s Leadership Circle members, including Conservation $8.3 stimulus package that provided immediate relief to all economic Kaufmann Society donors whose gifts are directed for sectors. Included in the legislation were two new benefits for Fallingwater 7.6 Fallingwater, have made the Conservancy’s work a philanthropic individuals who want to provide much-needed support to PROGRAMS Community Gardens & 3.2 priority. Members who make annual gifts of $1,000 or more charitable organizations: universal (above-the-line) deduction for 82% are recognized through the Leadership Circle program. The Greenspace donations up to $300 and an increase in the charitable giving Conservancy recognizes this significant commitment by deduction cap for individuals from 60% of adjusted gross income Constituent Programs & 0.5 providing enhanced access to our programs, special outings and to 100%. Visit our website for more information. Outreach additional insights into our plans throughout the year. Become a monthly donor and make your $1,000+ annual gift in convenient Employee Matching Gift Program Program Support MILLIONS monthly deductions — a simple way to make a big difference! Many companies and organizations will match employee contributions, greatly increasing the impact of your gift to the Fundraising 2.1 Evergreen Circle Conservancy. Please contact your human resources office for Administrative/General 2.1 Members of the Evergreen Circle have loyally supported the further information. Expenses Conservancy for at least 15 out of the last 20 years. Some have been members for much longer — with memberships dating To learn more about how you can help, contact Lauren Marshall, FUNDRAISING back to the 1950s! Their loyal and continuous support has been 9% TOTAL $23.8 the Conservancy’s donor relations coordinator, toll-free at 1-866- ADMINISTRATIVE a crucial part of our successful work. We are deeply grateful for 564-6972 (ext. 2336) or [email protected]. Additional 9% Redbud tree in bloom near those who constantly support our efforts each and every year. information can be found at WaterLandLife.org. downtown Pittsburgh

14 Western Pennsylvania Conservancy 2019 Annual Report 15 800 Waterfront Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15222

412-288-2777 [email protected]

WaterLandLife.org

CREATE A LASTING LEGACY AT WPC

You can create a long-lasting impact in Western Pennsylvania by including the Conservancy in your estate plans. Your legacy will contribute to our financial strength and ability to conserve Western Pennsylvania’s most spectacular land, water and wildlife and to preserve Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece, Fallingwater. Bequests in a will or trust are one of the most common ways of making a legacy gift, and they are simple to establish. If you would like more information or if you have already included the Conservancy or Fallingwater in your estate plans, please contact Julie Holmes, the Conservancy’s director of development, at 412-586-2312 or [email protected]. Sunrise in the Ligonier Valley