Sycamore - Spring 2011 by Willistown Conservation Trust

Th e S y c a m o r e Newsletter of

Vol. XII, Issue 1

Spring 2011

W i l l i s t o w n C o n s e r v a t i o n Tr u s t

Thirty Years of Loving the Land Imagine Our Countryside in Thirty More

Having just celebrat-

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ed thirty years of conservation in the Willistown area, we look to the future with optimism and grateful hearts, knowing that our remarkable community will continue to make land preservation a top priority. What a wonderful movement those landowners started back in 1980, by taking the first generous and bold step to permanently protect their land from development through the donation of conservation easements. Today, more than 9,000 acres are permanently preserved and our 28,000 acre patchwork of protected and yet to be protected lands includes some of the richest and most abundant wild areas left in our region.

While there is much work left to do, the love for the land in the Willistown countryside is growing and thriving. With the help of all of you — generous landowners, friends, neighbors, volunteers and supporters, it is possible to imagine an even more extraordinary Willistown in the future where: • the remaining vulnerable lands are permanently protected; • all of our nature preserves and parks are connected

by walking and riding trails; • a network of small farms produces healthy food and artisanal products for local families and for those in need; • wide open spaces afford plenty of room for cycling, hiking, equestrian and other outdoor activities; • native woodlands and grasslands are restored, and clean streams are home to thriving native fish populations; • the collective efforts of homeowners, gardeners, farmers and large tract landowners create a place where birds and wildlife flourish in abundant natural habitat; • people of all ages and backgrounds come to learn about nature and become inspired to preserve and improve the natural world around them; and • where beauty and respite can always be found. Thirty years of commitment and a remarkable community “land ethic” have created the beautiful landscape that is the Willistown countryside. Just think what we can accomplish together in the next thirty years.

Bonnie Van Alen, President

For the preservation of the natural resources, rural character, and cultural heritage of the Willistown area.

County and State Grants Support Rushton Woods Preserve Acquisition

Public Funding Brings the Trust a Step Closer to Completion of the 80-Acre Preserve All of us at the Trust are exceedingly grateful to Chester County Commissioners Terrence Ferrell, Kathi Cozzone and Ryan Costello and to former Commissioner Carol Aichele for two recent $500,000 grants through the County Preservation Partnership Program. The first was awarded in June of 2010 and the second in February of this year, toward the Trust’s purchase of the 51-acre Rushton Woods Preserve Addition. The awards complete the County’s extraordinary funding commitment of $2 million towards the Rushton Woods Preserve. The Trust formally acquired the property on June 25, 2010, from Rushton Land Associates, the remarkable partnership of neighbors and supporters who a year earlier purchased the property on behalf of the Trust for the bargain sale price of $3.9 million. In addition to the County’s support, a previously awarded grant of $500,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and private donations totaling $200,000, bring the Trust to within $1.2 million of meeting its purchase obligation. It is anticipated that the outstanding balance will be funded primarily through additional private donations and foundation grants.

• The establishment of the 80-acre Rushton Woods Preserve which is open to the public; • The creation of two miles of public walking and riding trails with connections to a broader network of trails in the Willistown area and beyond; • The preservation and enhancement of one of the most critical sites for bird conservation within the Audubon designated Upper Ridley/Crum Important Bird Area (IBA); • The establishment of the Rushton Woods Preserve Bird Banding and Monitoring Station to further ornithological research in the IBA and bring unique educational opportunities to the public; and • The establishment of a permanent home for the Trust’s Community Farm Program whose mission is to model sustainable agricultural practices and promote the values of open space and natural resource protection to a broader community.

T h e Ru s h t o n Woods Preserve has been one of the most important acquisitions the Trust has undertaken in terms of natural and scenic resources and public benefits, including:

The Trust also extends heartfelt thanks to Bill Gladden a nd Judy Thomas of Chester County Department of Open Space Preservation, for their tireless assistance on behalf of this project.

This 80-acre Rushton Woods Preservie is the site of numerous Trust activities and initiatives, including the Community Far m Program, Rushton Far m CSA, and Rushton Woods Preserve Banding Station. Here visitors explore the herbs and flowers at the Farmshed garden.

The Sycamore

Drawing by kay lake of wilkay STuDioS aT eTSy.com

Rushton Woods Preserve and Rushton Farm Beginning May 28, 2011

Come Explore!

Along with the County Commissioners, Bill Gladden, Director of Open Space Preservation for Chester County, has been a strong supporter of the Rushton Woods Preserve project. Here Bill addresses guests at last summer’s Tomato Tasting at Rushton Farm.

Delchester Road, just south of Goshen Road Open daily 8:30 am – 6:00 pm unless entrance gate is closed Please, no dogs A new sign and information kiosk for Rushton Woods Preserve will be installed this spring. Until then, the entrance is marked by the Rushton Farm sign. Please park just inside the entrance gate and not on Delchester or Goshen Roads. Please note that Rushton Farm, located within the preserve, is a working farm. Care should be taken around farm equipment and growing fields.

Gordon Woods Donation Expands Ashbridge Preserve and Creates New Trail Corridor In December 2010 the Trust accepted a generous donation of land from long time Trust supporter, Linda Gordon. The property consists of two contiguous wooded lots totaling just over four acres along the west side of Line Road and across Towne Drive from the Trust’s Ashbridge Preserve. Linda and her late husband, Donald Barshinger, were strong advocates for the Trust’s acquisition of Ashbridge Preserve, and were instrumental in the effort that resulted in East Goshen Township’s financial support of the project. It was always Linda and Donald’s desire to see their property remain in its natural state. Under the Trust’s ownership, the ability to develop the lots, which includes the right to construct two houses, will be extinguished and the property will be annexed to Ashbridge Preserve, bringing its size to 59 acres. There are no structures on the property, and its land cover consists entirely of mature trees, most of which are native species. Conservation of this woodland extends the Preserve northward to an area of mature tree canopy critical for bird habitat, and contributes to maintaining the scenic character of Line Road.

The Gordon Woods consists almost entirely of mature native trees. Spring 2011

The Gordon Woods donation also creates an important linkage for a trail corridor between Ashbridge Preserve and the Thorncroft Therapeutic Horseback Riding Center just north of the donated land. Many thanks to our good friend Linda Gordon for making this wonderful donation to the Trust.

Will You Protect Your Land? Tax Incentives Have been Renewed

Congress recently renewed through 2011 the enhanced federal tax incentives for donating a conservation easement. Donating a conservation easement can be one of the best ways to preserve the land you love, while maintaining your private property rights and possibly realizing significant financial benefits. The enhanced incentives, which apply to a landowner’s federal income tax: • Raise the maximum charitable deduction a landowner can take for donating a conservation easement from 30% to 50% of adjusted gross income (AGI); and • Increase the number of years over which an easement donor can take a charitable deduction from 6 years to 16 years. To learn more about protecting your land with a conservation easement donation, please email John Turgeon at jgt@wctrust.org. You can also download a copy of the Trust’s publication, Heroes of the Willistown Countryside — a Landowner’s Guide to Conservation Easements, at www. wctrust.org.

Open Space – What’s It Worth? The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and the GreenSpace Alliance recently teamed up to produce the report titled Return on Environment – The Economic Value of Protected Open Space in Southeastern Pennsylvania. It is the first report to quantify the economic value of conserved open space in the five counties within the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Did you realize just how much protected open space contributes to our local economies and property values? Some of the key findings cited by the report: • Preserved open space adds $16.3 billion to the value of our region’s housing stock; • Southeastern Pennsylvania realizes nearly $61 million in annual cost savings from the ability of protected open space to naturally filter and replenish our water supply, and the trees on preserved land are estimated to provide $17 million in annual air pollution removal and carbon sequestration services; • Economic activity associated with protected open space in our region, such as recreation, tourism, and agriculture results in more than 6,900 jobs and $299 million in annual earnings, and further generates $30 million per year in state and local tax revenue; and • The health related costs savings resulting from physical activity on conserved open space amount to $1.3 billion per year. In short, these figures demonstrate that we can’t afford not to conserve our region’s open space. Learn more about the “Return on Environment” and download the full report or a summary brochure at: http://www. greenspacealliance.org/home/ .

The Sycamore

Joining Forces in the Great Outdoors School Partnerships Give and Receive

Willistown Conser-

vation Trust has become a key partner with local schools because of our ability to provide students with natural settings in which to learn and serve their community. Though today’s children might spend their time differently than they did decades ago, they still share an elemental need to connect with their community and the natural world.

ing. Providing both brains and brawn for all sorts of tasks from planting trees and wildflowers to weeding and harvesting at the farm, these kids — who range from kindergarteners to high school seniors — give the Trust the added human resources we need to get the job done.

No matter what the task, the Trust strives to weave environmental education into Student volunteers from Episcopal Academy roll up their sleeves to help the Trust the students’ work, Over the past several plant the final phase of riparian buffer plantings along Crum Creek in Kirkwood whether it is a lesson Preserve. Since 2006, the Trust has planted over 500 native trees and shrubs along this years, the Trust has a b o u t wa t e r s h e d stretch of Crum Creek with the generous and able assistance of numerous volunteers been fortunate to work from local schools and the surrounding community. health or sustainable with students from far ming. It is our Episcopal Academy, Conestoga High School, Shipley School, Goshen Friends hope that our work together will help produce the next great School and the Agnes Irwin School. Students have worked generation of conservationists. with us as senior service interns, summer interns and as Feedback from the schools has been overwhelmingly positive. monthly volunteers as part of their community service learn“The Trust is an amazing place for our students to experience firsthand how volunteering can make a difference,” says Susan Swanson, Episcopal’s Director of Community Outreach & Service Learning. “When students spend a day outdoors with the Trust, they will learn why conservation is important, and they can feel good about furthering the Trust’s mission.” The Trust’s partnerships with these outstanding schools are extremely enjoyable and meaningful to all of us. Community service learning affords these students an opportunity to apply academic knowledge to real life needs while giving back to something larger. It is an experience that makes all of us better. To learn more about how your school could partner with the Trust, contact Bill Hartman at wrh@wctrust.org to express interest. Agnes Irwin School students helped protect the stream bank at Kirkwood Preserve by planting trees there last Fall. Spring 2011

Reflections from Past Interns – Where Are They Now?

Natalie StapleS Currently Attending: Kenyon College

Willistown Conservation Trust has certainly had an influence on me. Willistown, specifically Rushton Farm, changed the way I thought about the relationship we have with our food, not simply the importance of “buying local and buying fresh” and the need for sustainability in agriculture. Willistown showed me the amount of care, hard work, and planning that is required for running a farm. I realized how important it is to note when a crop is planted and where it is planted. I liked learning about specific facts, for instance, the notion that

it is possible to over-water plants and that certain groups of plants require lots of water, while others (like the nightshades) don’t require a lot of water. In addition, Willistown inspired me to pursue bird banding. I am hoping to go to Kent Island next summer to help Robert Mauck, my current Biology professor, with bird banding. One of my favorite bird banding experiences at Willistown was observing the process of attaching trackers to Saw-Whet Owls. I really like the idea of tracking where each owl has migrated and how far they have traveled since they were last banded. One of my favorite moments of bird banding happened on my first day. I was able to hold a hummingbird in the palm of my hand!

Meredith Mayer

Currently Attending: Skidmore College I have been passionately interested in environmental and agricultural issues ever since I can remember. My senior year of high school, I was given the incredible opportunity of choosing a fiveweek full-time internship to finish off my educational experience. I immediately knew that I wanted to use my time to combine my passion of being a good steward of the Earth and my strong interest in local agriculture. I was blessed to spend my internship working with the incredible staff at the Willistown Conservation Trust. Although my classroom education in high school was valuable, my internship was really more important than anything else I learned senior year. My time at the Trust working with the staff of Rushton Farm and Stewardship Department gave me a deeper appreciation for the incredibly

important work that a land conservation trust does. I left with a strong belief that preserving open space, respecting natural resources and heritage, and producing organic local food matters, because I had been given the hands on experience during my internship. Not only do I still believe that those things are incredibly important, I am now studying to be able to have a career working on those issues. The work that Willistown Conservation Trust does is so important and having the opportunity to briefly contribute to that work changed the course of my life in the best way possible.

The Sycamore

liz BeNNett

Currently Attending: University of Vermont I am studying Environmental Sciences in the University of Vermont’s Rubenstein School of the Environment and Natural Resources. I am also in the University Honors College and made the Dean’s List first semester. This semester, I am interning under under the University’s Recycling and Solid Waste Manager, Erica Spiegel, investigating potential uses for the waste cooking oil produced in the on-campus dining facilities. I also was accepted to and am enrolled in the Wilderness Instructor Leadership Development program (W.I.L.D.), a semester-long extracurricular class that trains future UVM Outing Club trip leaders.

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Currently Attending: Dartmouth College Even though I’ve left the fields of Rushton Farm and seen the servings of fresh veggies in my diet drop sharply — such is the life of a college student — I have continued to engage with agricultural issues, spurred on by my experiences working for the Trust. In just over three weeks I will leave for spring break in Florida, only I won’t be going to party. Instead I will be learning about and working on migrant labor rights issues in Immokalee, Florida, as part of Dartmouth’s Alternative Spring Break Program. Working for the Trust has made me want to know more about agriculture and land conservation at a broader, nationwide level. In fact I have been researching the intersection between labor

and agriculture as part of an independent study. I believe that my time at Willistown gave me the practical, handson experience to make me feel something greater than just an academic connection to these issues. In the future I am looking at pursuing a law degree, which I think will prove helpful in land conservation, should I go into that field. I am also considering a stint in the Peace Corps, and was nominated as an environmental educator, with a possible focus on agriculture. In short, it seems very likely my time spent at the Trust will be a stepping stone to whatever I do next.

Spring 2011

Let it Grow! Join the “No Mow” Movement!

The benefits of “releasing” a grassy area to a future of mowing only once or twice a year are abundant. Those longer, swaying blades of grass and stalks of native perennials that emerge once mowing ceases quickly become home to a plethora of beneficial insects. And if watching these minute creatures flitting from plant to plant weren’t benefit enough, these insects also serve as a critical food source for the migratory birds that nest, feed and summer in Willistown’s fields and grasslands; not to mention the advantages of reducing the consumption of fossil fuel.

To further promote the ecological, financial and aesthetic benefits of limiting mowing to an annual or bi-annual cycle, the Trust will release the front field at our office at 925 Providence Road in the spring of 2011. The unhindered growth of the field’s cool season grasses, combined with the nearly 5,000 native wildflower plugs that have been planted there over

the past four years, will serve as a magnet for insect, birds and mammals alike. It will be a perfect spot to see and hear the benefits of mowing less. Starting in 2011, the Trust will begin the process of reaching out to landowners to assess potential opportunities for reducing the mowing frequency of fields and pastures. For some, this effort may require an adjustment to our shared aesthetic sensitivities. The American landscape is rooted in the aristocratic English emphasis on taming and grooming the landscape. Americans love the look of a mowed lawn or field, and while we are certainly not suggesting the release of every square foot of mowed grass in Willistown, we are hoping that some collective momentum will be gained toward the goal of increasing the area’s inventory of released fields. It’s an appropriate and beautiful approach that acknowledges Willistown’s rural landscape. Help the “No Mow” effort take root in the Willistown countryside by visiting the Trust to observe our very own released field and by taking a look at your own property and neighborhood to see where opportunities might exist to release a grassy area or lawn. And let us know how we can help you.

(Left) Wildflower meadows at the Trust’s office at 925 Providence Road demonstrate an attractive alternative to a mown lawn. (Below) Walking paths are mowed regularly at Okehocking Preserve making a handsome contrast to large swaths of unmowed grasses.

Your Land? Small or Large, It Makes a Difference! You Can Impact the Countryside – What You Plant, How Your Mow, Fertilize and Weed Matters

JuSTin finneran

Each property is a piece of land that holds the world together — your backyard may not be critical by itself, but is an essential part of the matrix that gives larger areas their ecological, scenic and recreation value.

The Sycamore

Eagle Scout Projects Enhance Preserves chilly during those early mornings in the field, they will be dry and their chairs and tables will have a solid floor beneath. Cody’s shelter project is funded by a grant from the Marjorie L. and Arthur P. Miller, Jr. Fund, a fund of the Chester County Community Foundation.

This spring, two boy scouts from Paoli Troop One will work on individual projects at the Trust’s Rushton Woods Preserve. Matt Magnotta will construct a small footbridge at Rushton Woods Preserve and place preserve boundary signs around the property. The bridge will create a comfortable and safe crossing for hikers on the trail through the woods. Cody Pitz will lead a group of his fellow scouts in the construction of a wooden shelter in the hedgerows just north of Rushton Farm’s produce fields. This shelter will provide covered gathering space for our bird banding and other outdoor education activities. While our bird banders may still be

Both scouts’ projects are part of their efforts to earn the Eagle Scout badge. Over the years, the Trust has been the beneficiary of numerous scout projects. These include small footbridges in Ashbridge Preserve and riparian buffer tree plantings at Kirkwood Preserve.

Cody Pitz, an Eagle Scout candidate, has been a regular participant in bird banding at Rushton Woods Preserve. Those sometimes wet early mornings alerted him to the need for a shelter at the banding station. Cody will lead construction of the shelter this spring as part of his quest to earn the Eagle Scout badge.

Many thanks to Matt and Cody for helping the Trust with these projects.

Grab your camera and take a hike!

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The rules are simple: all photos must be taken in the greater Willistown area. The contest is open to all. The top three winning photographs will be featured in our Fall newsletter, The Leaflet. Some of the photographs may also be used in other newsletters, brochures, and the web site. If you would like any additional information, please email us at land@wctrust.org.

Join our Photo Contest!

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Photography Contest Guidelines • Enter up to three pieces in the following categories: Closeup, Landscape, People in Nature, Willistown Conservation Trust Activities and Events. • Work must be in digital format. Submit your work via via email to land@wctrust.org or disk delivered to WCT, 925 Providence Road, Newtown Square, PA 19073. Media will not be returned. All work must be clearly marked with your name, email address, mailing address and phone number, along with the category and location of photo. • Entries must be received by September 1, 2011. • Winners will be announced in our Fall newsletter, The Leaflet, where we will showcase the top three. • All photographs may be used for promotional purposes by Willistown purposes by Willistown Conservation Trust. Spring 2011

Have You Met Your Neighbors? The feathered ones With

our program area designated as an Audubon Important Bird Area, the Trust is committed to protecting this small, yet not insignificant, part of the global network of critical bird habitats. Our evolving Center for Bird Conservation includes such activities as bird monitoring Lisa Kiziuk holding a newly banded surveys, habitat restoBaltimore Oriole. ration, grassland management efforts, and our newest initiative, bird banding. In addition to our long time partner Audubon Pennsylvania, we are excited about the possibility of new initiatives with organizations such as Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the American Bird Conservancy, Delaware Valley Ornithological Club, and Stroud Water Research Center on projects that will assist us in accelerating the conservation of birds and their habitats through science, education, and community outreach. More details on these evolving programs will be shared on our web site.

ruShtoN WoodS preServe BaNdiNg StatioN takeS Flight

The staff at Rushton Woods Preserve Bird Banding Station is thrilled to begin the first spring migration banding season.

Banding will be conducted from mid-April until early June on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from sunrise until early afternoon. Birds are gently captured in mist nets that are installed in old-field and secondary growth habitat types. This area is a focal point of bird activity, especially during spring and fall migration when it’s possible to see over 60 species of songbirds. Gently captured birds will be banded with individually numbered aluminum leg bands provided by the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory and, prior to their release, data will be recorded and then sent to the federal Bird Banding Laboratory for use by the scientific community. Our banding team is led by Master Bander and consultant Doris McGovern and is assisted by Lisa Kiziuk (who recently earned her banding sub-permit), Stewardship intern Blake Goll, and dedicated volunteer Louis Hahn. Volunteers who can commit to one or two days per week are always needed, and enthusiastic observers are welcome. You may be asking yourself: Why would I want to drag myself out of my warm bed to go outside at sunrise and hang out in a hedgerow for a few hours? Speaking from experience, Lisa Kiziuk shares, “there is no greater feeling than getting out to the field just before first light, when you feel like you are blending in with the natural surroundings, as every single thing seems to come to life — especially the beautiful and mellifluous birds seeking refuge and nourishment for a day at the preserve”. For more information about the Center for Bird Conservation or to find out how you can get involved, email Lisa Kiziuk at lkr@wctrust.org or visit www.wctrust.org.

On April 1st over 100 people gathered at Radnor Hunt for “Tales with Tails” with Adrian Binns who shared amusing stories and brillant images of his global bird and wildlife tours.

The Sycamore

Ode to a Bander’s Autumnal World As the ardent air of autumn eclipses the weary haze of summer’s last breath, The wind whispers to the wild wings that it is time. Oh how the northern trees must weep as they somberly settle into winter solitude And yearn for the intimate avian romance that enchants their days of green. By most of mankind, the birds’ desperate southern voyage goes unseen.

Like secretive spiders faithfully tending their dewy webs by dawn’s dim light, We raise our mist nets in hopes of gently snaring a few denizens of the sky; A small silver ring upon the ankle, a reverent study of intricate feathers, then the rapturous release that leaves us breathless in awe, Each lovely feathered captive feeds our hunger to understand The storied lives of the heavenly birds with whom we share the land. by Blake Goll

feaTher DrawingS by alice SharP

But to the fortunate few, like you and me, this is the splendor we have feverishly awaited! As if a million precious gems of a giant royal chest were catapulted south, We scramble frantically to touch as many as we can before they continue spilling past, Each jewel in hand more exquisite and exciting than the last.

JoiN the JuNior BirdiNg cluB today!

Birds flock to Willistown because of our open space and healthy, undeveloped land. And that makes it a great place for our Junior Birding Club, whose members will get the chance to see, hear and identify many of our feathered friends who share the countryside with us. Junior birders will meet once a month at Rushton Woods Preserve beginning Saturday April 30th at 9:30 a.m. It’s an hour filled with fun bird facts, games, observation and hands-on activities! Intended for ages 8 – 12. For more information, e-mail Lisa Kiziuk at lkr@wctrust.org. Junior birders learn to use binoculars to see Willistown’s most colorful residents.

Spring 2011

prograMS & eveNtS March Share Our Traditions Dinner Saturday March 12 4 – 7pm Rushton Farm

Potluck venison dinner and bonfire for participants of the Trust’s Deer Management Program .

April Tales with Tails The Lighter Side of Birding Friday April 1 – no fooling! 5:30 – 7:30pm Radnor Hunt

Adrian Binns shares some of the curious predicaments he encounters while leading birding tours around the globe. Registration required.

Wildflower Plantings with Episcopal Academy Students Friday April 29 9am 925 Providence Road

Volunteers are welcome to join in as we expand the native wildflower meadow in front of the Trust’s office at Providence Road. Junior Birding Club First Meeting Saturday April 30 9:30 – 11:00 am Rushton Farm

May Creek Week - Stream Clean Up Saturday May 7 9am – 11am Randolph Woods, Malvern

Help us clean up the stream as we participate in the Chester-Crum-Ridley Creek Watersheds Association’s annual Creek Week event. Earth Day Event for Goshen Friends School Students Wednesday April 13 Rushton Woods Preserve Wildflower Plantings with Shipley School Students Friday April 15 9am 925 Providence Road

Volunteers are welcome to join in as we expand the native wildflower meadow in front of the Trust’s office at Providence Road. Bird Banding Demonstration for DVOC and New Donors Sunday April 17

Enjoy student performances on a beautiful evening at the farm. Sycamore Society Party Sunday May 15

By invitation only . A very special thank you party for our wonderful supporters who annually support the Trust’s work with $1,000 or more.

Bird fun for kids ages 8 – 12. Email lkr@wctrust. org to sign up. Future meeting dates to be determined.

Spring Bird Banding Begins Most Tuesday and Wednesdays beginning mid April Sunrise – Early Afternoon Rushton Woods Preserve

Come meet Willistown’s most colorful inhabitants up close. To express interest and to receive regular banding schedule updates, email lkr@wctrust.org.

Musicopia and Friends Outdoor Concert Saturday May 7 6pm Rushton Farm

Potato Planting A Saturday in May tbd Rushton Farm

Come join this fun family activity and get your hands dirty placing little seed potatoes into the ground. Plant Sale I Saturday & Sunday May 7 & 8 11am – 3pm Rushton Farm

Early vegetable and annual flower seedlings, raspberry canes, and a limited supply of perennials.

Wednesday “Just Show Up” Volunteer Day at the Farm Every Wednesday through October beginning Wednesday May 18 9am – 4pm Rushton Farm

Here’s a great way to get your hands dirty, help the farm, and learn about sustainable agriculture. Rushton Woods Preserve Opens to the Public Saturday May 28 8:30am – 6pm Plant Sale II Saturday & Sunday May 28 & 29 Rushton Farm 11am – 3pm

Come purchase seedlings and early starts of your summer favorites. First CSA Pickup Of The Season Tuesday May 31 2 – 7pm Rushton Farm

June Family Volunteer Day at the Farm Saturday June 4 11am – 3pm Rushton Farm

A healthy dose of fresh air and community spirit. No registration required.

By invitation only.

The Sycamore

Check wctrust.org for updated calendar. Tomato Gleaning A Saturday in August tbd Rushton Farm

Help harvest the last tomatoes on the vines before nighttime temperatures ruin their flavor. All produce from the gleaning will be donated to the families and individuals in need via West Chester Food Cupboard.

Come out and enjoy some of the fresh produce grown at the farm as well as local honey and eggs.

July Family Volunteer Day at the Farm Saturday July 2 11am – 3pm Rushton Farm

A healthy dose of fresh air and community spirit. No registration required.

August Family Volunteer Day at the Farm Saturday August 6 11am – 3pm Rushton Farm

A healthy dose of fresh air and community spirit. No registration required. Tomato Celebration and Potluck Saturday August 6 5 – 7pm Rushton Farm

Family Volunteer Day at the Farm Saturday September 3 11am – 3pm Rushton Farm

A healthy dose of fresh air and community spirit. No registration required. Outdoor Painting Workshop With Peter Schaumann Lecture: Saturday September 10 1pm 925 Providence Road Onsite painting: Saturday September 17 1pm Kirkwood Preserve, Grubbs Mill Road

Potato Harvest Saturday in August – tbd Rushton Farm

Come to this family friendly day of digging for treasure at Rushton Far m - potato treasure!

Spring 2011

A healthy dose of fresh air and community spirit. No registration required. Owl Banding Begins October – tbd Rushton Woods Preserve

By reservation only. Over 90 adorable little Saw-whet Owls were banded at Rushton last year as they migrated through our area. For reservations email lkr@wctrust.org. Radnor Hunt Horse Trials & Pig Roast Saturday October 8 Pig Roast – 5:00pm Radnor Hunt Pony Club and Radnor Hunt

Outdoor painting workshop. For more information and to register, visit www.schaumannstudio.com. Popcorn & Movie Under the Stars Saturday September 17 7pm Rushton Farm

Bring chairs, a blanket and picnic supper and watch a fun movie outdoors. Benefits The Achievement Project of Chester

Harvest Celebration Saturday October 22, rain date Sunday Rushton Farm 5 – 8pm

Pumpkin carving, live raptors, bonfire and beautiful Autumn evening at Rushton Farm. Registration required.

November Feast of Farms Art Show Preview Party Saturday November 5 5:30 –8:00 p.m. Wayne Art Center

garDening wiThouT SkillS

Tomatoes are the stars! Join CSA members and bring your favorite farm fresh recipes. Registration required.

September

Family Volunteer Day at the Farm Saturday October 1 11am – 3pm Rushton Farm

WCT and Wayne Art Center partner to present an art show featuring Willistown landscapes. . Run-A-Muck & Countryside Bash Saturday September 24 Heartwood Farm 2:30 – 6pm

You can Run or Muck (walk) on the beautiful cross-country trail again this Fall, and don’t miss this Countryside Bash! Young, old or canine — all gather in this spectacular setting for a day of running, mucking and raucous fun. There’s nothing like it! Registration required.

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Rushton Farm Market Opens Saturdays June 18 – October 15 11am – 3pm Rushton Farm

October

Radnor Hunt Pony Club Chase for Conservation Sunday November 13

Proceeds from this annual event benefit the Trust.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Habitat!

Wildflower meadows promote pollinators Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to believe that the first piece of ground and beneficial insects that help support the field crops. at Rushton Farm was turned a mere three years ago. Woodland, hedgerows and grasslands surround the Back in 2008, we cultivated one acre of ground to agricultural fields providing rich habitat for nesting support our pilot 35-member Community Supported birds and a natural windbreak for the fields. Agriculture (CSA) program. Three years later, we are cultivating three acres of land to grow food for over 100 Just as Rushton Farm benefits from its natural surroundings, families, our Saturday farm market, a few special dinner events, the sustainable practices employed by the farmers bolster and families in need via West Chester Food Cupboard. the surrounding ecosystem. Three years of conditioning the soil has eradicated the invasive plants that were prevalent and increased the soil quality. Cover crops have prevented erosion, improving water quality and adding nutrients to the ground. Crops and grasses between the fields are allowed to go to seed to provide food for birds. When the fields were covered with snow this winter, seed heads above the ice provided nourishment for the birds wintering at the farm. Sustainable agriculture within a natural ecosystem is not a new idea, but an old one with renewed relevance. Only recently have we allowed large-scale industrialized agriculture to overwhelm the small farms that were once so vital to the fabric of a community. These small farms recognized the value of the environment around them and the importance of farming sustainably to maintain the integrity of the land.

Farmer Aaron de Long inspects a boisterous crop of Arrowhead Cabbage at Rushton Farm. While field production and membership have been growing, so has community support for everything happening around the farm. Thanks to remarkable private and public financial support, the farm is now encompassed by Rushton Woods Preserve, the latest 80-acre jewel in Willistownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crown of natural places to be permanently protected (see page 2). In addition to the farm, this newest preserve is the site of many activities designed to educate and enrich our community, including songbird banding in the spring and Saw-whet Owl banding in the fall. In the context of this nature preserve, Rushton Farm has become a beautiful example of land conservation, one that demonstrates the benefits of environmentally sound management practices. Here sustainable agriculture exists alongside hedgerows where migratory birds are monitored and banded to help study diversity and population within the preserve.

This old idea is being revisited today to create a new vision of what a modern farm can be. A farm can feed the community and be part of a natural landscape that evolves and changes with the seasons, just like the land surrounding it. This is the very essence of what we are trying to achieve at Rushton Farm.

Saturdays at Farm Market

Saturdays beginning June 18th

Fun activities on other Saturdays! Family Volunteer Days Potato Planting Tomato Gleaning Bird banding Demonstrations Potato Harvesting Popcorn & Movie Night Harvest Celebration

Check the Program Guide on pages 12-13 or www.wctrust.org for specific dates and details

The Sycamore

Trust Works with Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture to Connect Young Farmers with Protected Land While land trusts continue to add to a growing reservoir of protected lands, interest in and demand for local foods continues to grow. A mssion of the Farming Futures program, developed by Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA), is to encourage land trusts and private owners of conserved lands to make affordale land accessible to young farmers.

Future Farmers -

The idea of leasing protected land to small-scale sustainable farm operations can be especially appealing to landowners who seek assistance managing their property, while at the same time contributing to the health of their community and providing a place for young farmers to thrive. The Trustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Farm Program Director, Fred de Long, has been working as a consultant on the Farming Futures project with Marilyn Anthony, PASA Southeast Regional Director. Also contributing to the project, Templeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fox School of Business is working to develop the business case for young farmers farming on leased, rather than owned, land. Rushton Farm has become a model for utilizing conserved land for small-scale sustainable agriculture and is featured in a short documentary film developed by PASA to promote the Farming Futures project. The film is now available at on our web site at www.wctrust.org.

Where Will they Farm?

The USDA agriculture census has been tracking the aging of the farming population and in response has begun making a significant commitment to new farmer recruitment and training. The data shows that these new farmers will not come from rural areas, but rather from urban and suburban neighborhoods, with no ready access to farmland. Is making preserved land accessible the answer?

Saturday October 22 5:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:00 pm

Rushton Farm, Delchester and Goshen Roads Celebrate the fourth season of harvest at Rushton Farm. Bring the whole family, a picnic and a blanket and enjoy an evening of pumpkin carving, hay rides and a bonfire. Details on www.wctrust.org.

Spring 2011

Meet Our New and Returning Trustees CHRISTINE SEVING

mary hunT DaviS PhoTograPhy

Our newest Trustee, Christine Seving, joined the Board in February 2011. Christine has been actively involved in the Run-a-Muck, serving as co-chair in 2010 and 2011, and her contagious enthusiasm and organizational skills have contributed greatly to the event’s tremendous success each year. Christine has served on the Trust’s Development Committee since 2010 and has been a great asset and generator of new ideas and strategies. Christine is Director at Camp Fernwood in Poland, Maine, a summer camp for girls that she coowns and manages with her husband Fritz. Prior to her involvement with Camp Fernwood, Christine worked in the corporate world for ten years. She is a graduate of Hollins College in Virginia. Christine and Fritz presently live with their daughter Emma (shown at left) and numerous horses and dogs on Gable Hill Farm on Goshen Road in Willistown Township.

TIMOTHY BARNARD

mary hunT DaviS PhoTograPhy

The Trust is pleased to welcome Tim Barnard back to the Board after a one year break. A founding Trustee, Tim served as Secretary from 1996 – 2005 and as Assistant Secretary from 2006 – 2010. Also a longtime Trustee of the Westtown School, Tim is a founding partner of the Media law firm Barnard Mezzanotte Pinnie & Seelaus.

PETER S. STRAWBRIDGE The Trust is very fortunate to have Peter Strawbridge rejoin the Board after a one year respite. Peter is a founding Trustee and was Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2002 – 2009. He is the former president of retailer Strawbridge & Clothier.

What MakeS ruN-a-Muck ruN? SpoNSorShipS!

For more information on how your business can be a part of this popular event while supporting conservation, email Susie MacDonnell at sam@wctrust.org.

The Sycamore

Meet Our New Staff Members BLAKE GOLL Blake joined the Trust in 2010 as our first annual Stewardship Intern. Blake’s background adds immeasurably to our land management efforts and education programming with local students. She graduated from Penn State in 2008 with a B.A. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science. Blake worked as an environmental education intern for the Penn State Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center and has completed a MAPS (Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship) internship, banding songbirds for the Institute for Bird Populations. Blake is also a volunteer for Tri-State Bird Rescue.

SUSIE MACDONNELL Susie MacDonnell joined the staff in December as our Events and Public Relations Coordinator. Susie did a wonderful job organizing sponsorship for Run-a-Muck last year, so we are thrilled that she will be broadening her efforts on the Trust’s behalf. Susie has a strong background in community service and has held numerous leadership positions in area organizations including the Delaware Antiques Show at Winterthur, the Chester County Historical Society Antiques Show and the Bayard Taylor Memorial Library in Kennett Square. Susie earned a bachelor degree from the University of Southern California and a master’s degree from West Chester University. She lives with her husband Bob in Chadds Ford. Welcome Susie!

JOANNA WHITNAH Starting in the spring of 2011, Joanna, as Assistant Grower of Rushton Farm, is responsible for greenhouse management and all aspects of field maintenance. She will also work with volunteers and school groups to help teach about sustainable agriculture and food systems. Joanna brings extensive teaching and farming experience, having worked both in the United States and abroad on a variety of sustainable agriculture projects. Most recently, she has worked on projects in Niger, West Africa and Cambodia. Joanna holds a BS in Sustainable Agriculture and Community Development from Gordon College.

LISA WIMBLE Beginning with the 2011 growing season, Lisa joined the Trust as Assistant Field Manager of Rushton Farm. Lisa will assist in the management of all aspects of growing and distributing produce for the Farm’s CSA, weekly Farm Market days and local food banks. As Assistant Grower at the Charlestown Cooperative Farm for the last three years, Lisa brings a strong working knowledge of organic and sustainable farming practices. She also has an interest in diet and nutrition, having worked as an intern for the Chester County Health Department’s Bureau of Environmental Health. Lisa holds a B.S. in Public Health and B.S. in Environmental Health from West Chester University. Spring 2011

Thank You!

We are grateful for the support provided by so many to further our conservation efforts in 2010 and beyond. Our deepest thanks go to each of you â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether you are a new donor, a long-time supporter or a Trust volunteer. You are helping to protect the Willistown area lands that enrich our lives, ensure clean air and water, inspire us with natural beauty, sustain locally grown food, and provide all of us, young and old, with special places to explore. The following contributors have generously supported the conservation effort from January 1, 2010 through February 28, 2011

the SycaMore Society

The Sycamore Society honors individuals and organizations who annually contribute $1,000 or more to sustain the Willistown Conservation Trustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission to steward and further protect the Willistown countryside. Platinum Sycamores ($25,000 or more)

Ms. Diana S. Clagett, in honor of Mr. and Mrs. James Sinkler The County of Chester Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Genuardi Mr. Steven C. Graham and Ms. Christina W. Morin Mr. and Mrs. Christopher K. McHugh Mrs. J. Maxwell Moran Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Mr. Douglas C. Walker Mr. Alfred P. West, Jr.

Gold Sycamores ($10,000 to $24,999)

Anonymous The Estate of Ms. Helene Cowan Carol and J.R. Delich Dick and Nancy Eales Glenmede Trust Company Mrs. W. Perry Gresh Alice and Peter Hausmann Mr. and Mrs. W. Anthony Hitschler Mr. and Mrs. J. David Hucker Kent-Lucas Foundation, Inc. The Estate of Mr. Leroy M. Lewis, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. George F. Rubin Mr. and Mrs. James L. Van Alen II Veritable, LP Mr. and Mrs. William G. Warden III

Silver Sycamores ($5,000 to $9,999)

Arader Tree and Landscape Ms. Carol Ann Atterbury Elizabeth G. Atterbury Frank and Terry Buzan Chester County Conservation District Open Space Preservation Department, TreeVitalize Program Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence A. Granger Ms. Dorrance H. Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. George F. Krall, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Charles C. Moller Mr. and Mrs. Britton H. Murdoch Donna and Bill Oliver

Mr. and Mrs. Seymour S. Preston III Radnor Hunt Horse Trials Paul and Marcia Woodruff

Bronze Sycamores ($2,500 to $4,999)

Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Clyde D. Beers Mr. and Mrs. C. Graham Berwind, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. L. Clarke Blynn Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Borgh, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Bryan D. Colket Dr. and Mrs. Sanford H. Davne E. Murdoch Family Foundation Mr. Brook Gardner and Ms. Jodi Spragins GBH Foundation Dr. Leslie J. Green and Dr. Ethel M. Ziselman Beverly S. Hattersley Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Helm Mr. and Mrs. James W. Hutchin Margot and Bob Keith Kreischer Miller Marjorie L. & Arthur P. Miller, Jr. Fund, a fund of the Chester County Community Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Peter J. McNeely Martha Geiger Papariello Philly Zone Subaru Radnor Hunt Pony Club Mr. and Mrs. Frederick T. Seving III Lang and Marilyn Smith Mr. Stephen Sordoni Mr. and Mrs. Peter S. Strawbridge Mr. Richard H. Thompson Mrs. William L. Van Alen, Sr. The Honorable Thomas D. Watkins and Mrs. Thomas D. Watkins Mr. and Mrs. Christopher B. White Alejandro and Janine Zozaya

Sycamores ($1,000 to $2,499)

Anonymous (3) Altus Partners Atwater Kent Foundation, Inc. Mr. Timothy B. Barnard Caroline and Olin Belsinger Mr. and Mrs. Douglas S. Briggs Broadacres Trouting Association

Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Campbell, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. W. Morgan Churchman III Mr. and Mrs. Warren I. Claytor Mr. and Mrs. George Y. Clement Mr. and Mrs. Tristram C. Colket, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Cooker Mr. and Mrs. Gary A. Cox Mr. and Mrs. Craig W. Cullen, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James M. Davidson Mr. and Mrs. Emery W. Davis Dr. Ronald E. DiSimone and Dr. Patricia Ann Torna Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Drummond Mr. and Mrs. Robert V. Duprey Mr. and Mrs. Eric Y. Eichler Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Ewing Ewing Cole Charitable Foundation Fenceworks Co. Dr. Kimberley H. Galligher and Mr. Russell T. Galligher Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gansky Germeshausen Foundation Mr. and Mrs. James E. Gerry Mr. and Mrs. Dale D. Goodman Ms. Linda M. Gordon and Mr. Donald Barshinger Griffiths Construction, Inc. The Hamilton Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. William R. Hartman (Sr.) Mr. and Mrs. Philip J. Harvey Mr. Scott T. Hattersley Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Hofmann Mr. and Mrs. Gary M. Holloway Mr. and Mrs. William T. Howard Mr. and Mrs. Harry J. Hurley III Mr. Francis M. Jennings John Milner Architects, Inc. Mrs. Henry A. Jordan Mr. and Mrs. Atwater Kent III Mr. and Mrs. Jerome R. Keough Dick and Nancy Klavans Mr. and Mrs. Mark T. Ledger Tim Lewis Mrs. Lawrence E. MacElree Ms. Victoria B. Mars and Mr. David R. Spina Mr. and Mrs. R. John Marsh, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert McClements, Jr.

The Sycamore Society continues

The Sycamore

The Sycamore Society continued Mr. and Mrs. John B. McGowan, Jr. Dr. F. Arthur McMorris and Dr. Joanna Balcarek McMorris Mr. and Mrs. Collin F. McNeil Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. McNeil Mr. and Mrs. John D. Milner Mr. and Mrs. Eustace W. Mita Mr. and Mrs. Peter C. Morse Mr. and Mrs. John Joseph Mullen Naturescapes Landscape Specialists Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Newbold IV

Conservationists ($500 to $999)

Mr. Francis H. Abbott, Jr. and Mrs. Frances Moran Abbott Mr. and Mrs. Richard B. Baxter, Jr. Beneficial Bank Benner & Sons, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. David M. Boucher Braxton’s Animal Works, Inc. Dr. and Mrs. Steven W. Breecker Mr. and Mrs. William O. Daggett, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Terence R. Decker Mr. Raymond E. Dombroski and Ms. Colleen J. DeMorat Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Donatucci III Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Naylor Dr. and Mrs. Larry F. Feiner Ms. Claire R. Fisher Mr. and Mrs. Stephen E. Flynn II Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Foga Mr. and Mrs. James E. Gowen II Anne and Matt Hamilton JTA Associates Inc., Architects Ms. Christine V. Kanter Mr. Charles C. Knight Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Layden, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Leisenring Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mason Ms. Katharine Gates McCoy Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas J. Mecca Montgomery School Peter Zimmerman Architects Prudential Fox & Roach, The Trident Group Ranieri & Kerns Associates, LLC

Tara and George Off Oliver Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Pension Mr. and Mrs. William J. Petrauskas Vincent M. Pompo, Esquire Mr. and Mrs. David W. Rawson Donald and Jill Red Mr. and Mrs. Calvin W. Schmidt Deacon and Sheila Shorr The Simkiss Family Foundation Mr. H. Peter Somers Julie and Robert Spahr Mrs. George Strawbridge

Trevor and Sandie Sutherland Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Swift Dr. and Mrs. Robert B. Taggart Mr. and Mrs. Anson W. H. Taylor III Mrs. Anson W. H. Taylor, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Stuart A. Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Trala, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James L. Van Alen, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew P. Weir Mrs. Penelope P. Wilson Mrs. Ethel Benson Wister YBH Audi - Volkswagen Dan and Sharon Yonker

Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Van Alen Mr. Charles F. Van Doren Walter J. Cook Jeweler, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey C. Warden Mr. and Mrs. Richard A. Warden Wawa, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Donald W. Weaver Weeds, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Theodore H. Wentz III Ms. Carolyn J. Wukitch and Mr. Anthony McCarley Dr. Kathy Zoll and Mr. Joseph C. Zoll

Mr. Thomas P. Hogan, Jr. and Ms. Victoria E. Silbey Mr. and Mrs. David C. Jelinek Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Jones Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Kenworthy III Mr. Wm. M. Keyser Sara Williams and Tom Koester Mrs. Anne D. Koffey Mr. Ralph W. Marsh Mr. and Mrs. Wade L. McDevitt Mrs. John B. McGowan, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Christopher D. McIsaac Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. McKenna, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. James S. Milne Mr. and Mrs. C. Warren Ormerod Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Peck Mr. and Mrs. William J. Pellicano Mrs. Eleanor R. Peterson Mr. and Mrs. Dale A. Pope Mr. and Mrs. Peter D. Quinn Dr. Robert A. Ruggiero, Jr. and Dr. Mary C. Penrod Ruggiero Mrs. Anne Faulkner Schoemaker Sarah and Gary Sheehan Mr. and Mrs. Jack M. Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Cary W. Toner Mr. and Mrs. Richard I. Torpey, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William G. Warden Mr. George A. Weymouth Mr. and Mrs. Bradford F. Whitman

Stewards ($250 to $499)

Anonymous Betsy and Luke Block Mr. and Mrs. Edward E. Brennan III Mr. and Mrs. W. Thacher Brown Mr. D. Hughes Cauffman Ms. Debra L. Charlesworth Dr. and Mrs. Peter Coggins Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Coslett Ms. Pamela Costanzi Mr. and Mrs. John F. Cozzi Mr. and Mrs. Alan Crawford, Jr. Mr. Geoff Dickey and Ms. Joan Scott Dr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Diliberto Mr. and Mrs. Saunders Dixon Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Erdman Elaine and Aidan Gilmartin Mr. and Mrs. Steven K. Gord Jeff and Diane Groff Mr. and Mrs. Louis Hahn

ShouldN’t every geNeratioN experieNce the Magic oF Wild placeS?

By including a bequest to the Trust in your will, you will help ensure that the wild spaces we enjoy today are here for generations to come. Please visit us at www.wctrust.org/lifegifts or call Elaine Gilmartin at (610) 353-2562 to learn how simple creating a legacy can be.

Spring 2011

Protectors ($100 to $249)

Anonymous (6) Mr. and Mrs. E. Page Allinson Ardrossan Beagles, Inc. Ms. Hazel E. Arnold Ms. Barbara R. Ashenfelter Mr. and Mrs. Donald R. Auten Mr. and Mrs. P. Theodore Babiy Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey E. Baena Mr. and Mrs. John M. Barbis Mr. and Mrs. R. Gregory Barton Mr. and Mrs. James L. Beam Ms. Deborah L. Beer Ms. Mary Anne Belisario Dr. and Mrs. Dennis Berman Dr. and Mrs. Michael P. Bibbo Mr. and Mrs. William T. Black, Jr.

On March 12th, nearly 30 hunters and landowners came to Rushton Far m for the Trust’s third annual “Share Our Traditions” event. Good cheer and hunting tales were plentiful as we shared venison recipes and our commitment to proactively addressing the area’s overabundant deer population. Mr. and Mrs. Joerg D. Brosowski Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Bucco Mr. and Mrs. George A. Buckland Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Caspar Mr. and Mrs. George Cauffman III Mrs. George Cauffman, Jr. Mrs. Lilian S. L. Chance Mr. and Mrs. Thomas P. Cobb Mr. and Mrs. Robert N. Cochran Mr. and Mrs. Anthony S. Conlon Mrs. Wiley F. Corl III Mr. and Mrs. John S. Custer, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Davis Mr. and Mrs. C. Frederick de Long, Sr. Ms. Shannon DeMichiel Mrs. Jeanne S. DiLoreto Mr. and Mrs. John H. Donaldson Mr. and Mrs. Charles F. Dougherty Mr. and Mrs. Walter J. Dowling Mrs. Beverly S. Ensor Line Farr and Terry Harvey Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm E. Flint Mr. Joe Flood Mr. and Mrs. Ernest R. Forcino Dr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Fosnocht Mr. and Mrs. John M. Gaadt Dr. and Mrs. Brent S. Gartner Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Gilpin, Jr. Mr. Antonio Granados Mr. and Mrs. Perry C. Gresh Mr. and Mrs. M. John Ham Mr. and Mrs. J. Marshall Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. John W. Hardin Mr. and Mrs. I. David Harshaw III Mrs. Joseph C. Hastings Mr. and Mrs. L. Stockton Illoway Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence W. Jamieson Junior League of Philadelphia Garden Club Ms. Gabriella Kecskes Dr. Charles F. Kelemen and Dr. Sylvia B. Kelemen Mr. and Mrs. Leonard A. King Ms. Anna Kreuzberger

Dr. George L. Lasota and Dr. Jeanne A. Hanache Mr. and Mrs. David P. Lavins Mr. and Mrs. Christopher A. Lawler Mr. and Mrs. J. Richard Leaman, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. N. Blair LeRoy Mr. Donald R. Levan Mr. and Mrs. John F. Link Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. MacDonnell Ms. Jacqueline Badger Mars Mr. Peter J. Maruca Ms. Deborah A. Mathes Mr. and Mrs. Andrew McDermott Mr. and Mrs. James E. McErlane Dr. and Mrs. Patrick McGovern Mr. James Meehan Mr. Bruce R. Morgan and Dr. Cynthia Graves Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Moser, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. George A. Mossman III Mr. and Mrs. William F. Mowbray Anne and Gary Murphy Mr. and Mrs. Peter A. Nagy Mr. and Mrs. John J. Nesbitt III Mr. and Mrs. James R. Nolan Mr. and Mrs. Andrew A. Orr, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Owens Mr. David W. Palmer and Ms. Laura Sauer Palmer Ms. Edith G. Parnum Mr. George R. Peel Ms. Lili Pew Ms. Ruth H. Pike Mr. and Mrs. Ronald D. J. Ploeg

Mr. David Reeves Mr. and Mrs. H. Clifford Reves Mr. and Mrs. George W. Robertson, Jr. Ms. Bonnie S. Rosen Dr. and Mrs. Robert A. Ruggiero, Sr. Mrs. Leonard P. Sasso Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Schaefer Dr. and Mrs. Timothy D. Schaeffer Mr. and Mrs. Henry E. Schellenger Mrs. Dorothy F. Sellers Mr. and Mrs. Win Siedlarz RedBud Native Plant Nursery Mr. and Mrs. John C. Snyder Mr. and Mrs. William T. Spane Mr. and Mrs. RJ Stedman Ms. Milica Stojancic Ted and Kitty Stokes Ms. Sarah B. Stokes The Strange Family Mr. and Mrs. Arthur L. Strawbridge Mr. and Mrs. Steven L. Strawbridge Mr. and Mrs. Eric W. Swanson Mr. and Mrs. David B. Thayer Mr. Robert A. Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Aaron R. Thurlow Mr. Frank L. Tobin and Ms. Ilene M. Chester Mr. and Mrs. Robert Toland, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Jack Thomas Tomarchio, Esq. Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius Verhoog Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey S. Vincent Dr. and Mrs. Michael J. Ward Mr. David E. Watt Mr. and Mrs. William Y. Webb The Weeders Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Wetherby Mr. and Mrs. David R. Wilmerding, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William R. Wood Mr. Minturn T. Wright III Ms. Sherley Young Mr. and Mrs. Peter H. Zimmerman

Friends (Up to $99)

Anonymous (3) Mr. Dan Allard Ms. Georgia Anyatonwu Arthur Hall Insurance Dr. and Mrs. Paul A. Barenberg Mr. Timothy M. Beadle Mr. Peter A. Bergson Drs. Thomas and Melanie Boerner Ms. Elaine Brody Ms. Maryanne Buschini and Mr. John P. Odell

Once again Radnor Hunt Horse Trials made a significant gift of $8,000 to the Trust with proceeds from their 2010 event. Many thanks to the organizers for supporting the Trust while continuing this Fall equestrian tradition.

The Sycamore

Ms. Anita J. Cabrera Mr. and Mrs. David R. Carmichael Ms. Meredith B. Chalfant Mr. Stephen C. Chance and Ms. Anne R. Holiday Dave and Sarah Clemens Dr. and Mrs. James B. Congdon Ms. Nancy M. Crickman and Mr. John R. McKinstry Mr. Christopher B. Cryer Ms. Gloria G. Currie Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Davis Mr. C. Frederick de Long Dr. and Mrs. Francis X. DeLone, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. David E. Dunn Ms. Janet L. Emanuel Mr. and Mrs. William C. Ewing Mr. and Mrs. John J. Fahey, Jr. Ms. Virginia G. Fanfera Mr. and Mrs. W. Kerk Farrell Mr. and Mrs. Alan C. Fitts Mr. Keith Fox Mr. John W. Frazier IV Genuardi’s Family Markets Dr. and Mrs. Edward F. Gilardi Mr. and Mrs. Bruce T. Gilbert Ms. Penny Goulding Dr. and Mrs. George T. Graham Mr. and Mrs. Charles J. Groux, Jr. Andrea Hanaway, MD Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Harper Miss Piper Hartman Mr. and Mrs. Jack Henn Mr. and Mrs. John R. Hicks Mr. James W. B. Hole and Ms. Heidi Thiermann Ms. Anna S. Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Francis B. Jacobs II Mr. and Mrs. Charles K. Jerrehian Mr. and Mrs. Henry Clay Johnson, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William H. Johnson, Jr. Mr. Jeffrey D. Katz and The Honorable Kathleen M. Katz Mr. and Mrs. Anthony C. Keane Mr. and Mrs. David E. Kiefer, Sr. Ms. Lucy M. Kiziuk Mr. Maurice G. Koningstein and Ms. Anne Satterthwaite Ms. Joanne E. Kostick Mr. and Mrs. Ronald T. Kuehn Mr. and Mrs. Steven Ladenheim Mr. and Mrs. Justin C. Lubecki Ms. Mary E. MacLachlan Mr. and Mrs. Gennaro J. Maffia Mr. and Mrs. James J. McBride, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Daniel P. McHugh Mr. and Mrs. John Day Mohr Mrs. E. Townsend Moore Mr. and Mrs. Michael V. Morgan Mrs. Marion R. Murphy Ms. Judith A. Myers Mr. and Mrs. Martin R. Page Mr. and Mrs. Lance Parry Ms. Catherine A. Patton

Spring 2011

Memorial Gifts In Memory of Donald W. Barshinger

Annual monitoring of the nearly 70 conserved properties protected by conservation easements held by the Trust is a significant effort and is among the Trust’s highest priorities. Here, Bill Hartman, John Turgeon and Sue Costello review an easement plan as they monitor a protected property in 2010. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Paul Mr. and Mrs. Al S. Pela Ms. Jamie A. Picardy and Mr. William T. Tilton Mrs. Howard A. Rankin Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Reeves Mr. and Mrs. J. Permar Richards III Mr. Todd W. Richards Mr. Benjamin K. Rodgers Mr. and Mrs. Norman Rubin Ms. Barbara L. Ruttenberg Ms. Judith L. Schafer Mr. and Mrs. George Schatz Ms. Margaret B. Schiffer Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Scutt Mr. and Mrs. Manfred Seidel Drs. Joseph and Suzanne Seltzer Dr. and Mrs. Keith L. Sharkan Jim and Ellen Simmons Ms. Jackie Simms Mr. Kenneth L. Smeltzer and Ms. Kristin L. Schaeffer Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Thayer, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Craig Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Andrew B. Ulichney II Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Ulmer Mr. and Mrs. Howard D. Venzie, Jr. Virgilio Designs Ms. Jean M. Wallace Mr. Thomas P. Weathers Mr. and Mrs. Steven E. Welch Mrs. Robert D. White Mr. and Mrs. Michael H. Wilson William Wood Co. Ms. Lida A. Wright Mr. and Mrs. Charles Zeien

Matching Gifts The Bank of New York Mellon Community Partnership Johnson & Johnson Microsoft Corp. National Semiconductor The Vanguard Group Foundation

Arthur Hall Insurance Ms. Anita J. Cabrera Mr. and Mrs. David R. Carmichael Ms. Janet L. Emanuel Mr. Antonio Granados Mr. and Mrs. Charles K. Jerrehian Mr. and Mrs. David E. Kiefer, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Al S. Pela Ms. Barbara L. Ruttenberg Ms. Judith L. Schafer Mr. and Mrs. George Schatz Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Wetherby

In Memory of Barbara P. Bartholomew Mrs. Howard A. Rankin

In Memory of Peter W. Wetherill Ms. Deborah A. Mathes

Easement Endowment

The Easement Endowment is funded by landowners who place easements on their properties and provides funds for the maintenance and defense of such easements in perpetuity. Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Genuardi Ms. Dorrance H. Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. James W. Hutchin Mr. and Mrs. Christopher B. White

Special Support of Programs

Chester County Conservation District — TreeVitalize Program Marjorie L. & Arthur P. Miller, Jr. Fund, a fund of the Chester County Community Foundation

Support of Rushton Woods Preserve Addition Acquisition

Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Cooker The County of Chester Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Beneficiary Income

Radnor Hunt Horse Trials Radnor Hunt Pony Club “Chasing for Conservation”

2010 Run-a-Muck Event Hosts

Esther and Paul Gansky

Event Co-Chairs

Bryan and Jayme Colket Fritz and Christine Seving Dale and Jody Vandegrift

Presenting Sponsor Veritable, LP

Entertainment Sponsor

Arader Tree and Landscape

Gwen and Ceilidh

Supper Sponsor

Mrs. J. Maxwell Moran

Trail Sponsor

Kreischer Miller

Prize Sponsor

Fenceworks Co.

Run-a-Muck co-Chairs of the 2010 event take a moment from the busy festivities. (Left to right) Fritz Seving, Christinie Seving, Jody Vandegrift, Jayme Colket, Dale Vandegrift and Bryan Colket. Sabina louiSe Pierce

Canine Sponsor

Band Sponsor

Philly Zone Subaru

Tent Sponsor

The Berwind Family Griffiths Construction, Inc. John Milner Architects, Inc. Naturescapes

Muckety Muck Sponsors

Willistown Veterinary Services Beneficial Bank Benner & Sons, Inc. Braxton’s Animal Works JTA Associates, Inc. Montgomery School Oliver Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Peter Zimmerman Architects Prudential Fox & Roach, Realtors / The Trident Group Ranieri & Kerns Associates, LLC Walter J. Cook Jeweler Wawa, Inc. Weeds, Inc. YBH Audi Volkswagon

Major Muckety Muck Individual Supporters

Timothy B.Barnard Donald Barshinger and Linda Gordon Barb and Clarke Blynn Doug and Peggy Briggs Mrs. Brice McAdoo Clagett Bryan and Jayme Colket Ruth M. and Tristram C. Colket,Jr. Bernard and Susan Cooker The Cullen Family Mr. and Mrs. Robert V. Duprey Dick and Nancy Eales Russell T. & Dr. Kimberley H. Gallagher Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gansky Jodi Spragins and Brook Gardner Dale and Kris Goodman Mrs. Samuel M.V. Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. Philip Harvey Beverly S. Hattersley Peter and Alice Hausmann Tony and Lynn Hitschler Joseph W. Holman, Jr. David and Elizabeth Hucker George and Lois Krall Jane C. MacElree Chris & Gina McHugh Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. McNeil Eustace Mita Mr. and Mrs. Peter Morse

John and Joan Mullen Mr. and Mrs. Britton Murdoch Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Newbold Donna and Bill Oliver Frank and Keith Pension Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Seving Lang and Marilyn Smith The Sordoni Family Peter and Liz Strawbridge Tom and Melissa Trala Jim and Bonnie Van Alen Elizabeth K. Van Alen Michael and Tana Wall Andrew, Eileen & Michael Weir Penelope P. Wilson Ethel Benson Wister Dan and Sharon Yonker

Muckety-Muck Individual Supporters

Carol Ann Atterbury Richard and Francie Baxter The Donatucci Family The Flynn Family Thomas and Christine Foga Eliza and James Gowen Harry and Marybeth Hurley Mr. and Mrs. Eldridge R. Johnson III Thomas and Peggy Mason John and Stephanie McGowan Matthew and Heather Naylor Skip and Karen Petrauskas Jean Preston Anne Schoemaker Julia Spahr Rick and Kathy Warden Debbie and Jeff Warden Penelope and Thomas D. Watkins Don and Nancy Weaver Alex and Janine Zozaya

Run-a-Muck Supporters Jaqueline Badger Mars Anne Schoemaker

Sycamore Society Party Event Hosts Britton and Janice Murdoch

Other Donated and Discounted Goods and Services

A.J. Blosenski Arader Tree and Landscape Barnard’s Orchard Bella Boutique Camp Fernwood Charles Schwab Co., Inc. Gary Cox Roger Dwyer Ellis Athletic Center Amos Esh ESRI Jimmy Duffy’s Catering Tony and Kari Keane Bob Lange Mary Hunt Davis Photography Oliver Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Bruce Park Radnor Hunt Rusty’s Handyman Services Sabina Pierce Photography Marilyn Smith Starbucks Stolzfuz Feed and Supply Taylor Rental Malvern UP Home, Ltd. Utilant LLC Valley Forge Running Company Victory Brewing Company Wegmans

Radnor Hunt Pony Club once again donated proceeds from their Chase for Conservation to the Trust. The $2,500 donation will be used to further the Trust’s land protection, education and community outreach programs. Here two riders approach the end of the ir three hour trail ride through beautiful Willistown countryside.

hoof PrinT image

Major Muckety Muck Sponsors

The Sycamore

voluNteerS Many thanks to all our volunteers! We truly appreciate your time, effort and dedication. List reflects volunteer activities between March 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010. The Achievement Project students Agnes Irwins School students Samantha Ainuddin Faith Aldrich Mark Aldrich Penny Aldrich Cindi Andrews Edgar Andrews Ali Backlund Sid Baglini Janet Baldo Jennifer Barrow Lindsay Barrow Francie Baxter Rich Baxter Clyde Beers Elizabeth Bennett Barb Blynn Clarke Blynn Keith Bradley Jennifer Braxton Denis Brennan Sally Bridwell Mary Ann Butcher Brian Byrnes Elizabeth Clapp Dave Clemens Bryan Colket Jayme Colket Elizabeth Conlon Maureen Conlon Tony Conlon Bernard Cooker Susan Cooker

Anna Costello Jake Costello Sue Costello Catherine Cox Gary Cox Violet Dages Chase Davis Shannon Davis Fred de Long Terry Decker Geoff Dickey I-shen Lei Dickey Robert Dickey Saunders Dixon Walt Dowling Amy Downs Dick Eales Nancy Eales Jimmy Ennis Episcopal Academy students Jack Fahey Kate Fahey Liza Fahey Shaina Flynn Christine Foga Tom Foga Rusty Fogel John Fossbenner Keith Fox Kim Galligher Russell Galligher Brook Gardner Edmund and Maria Gavrilo Elaine Gilmartin

Iain Gilmartin Blake Goll Kat Gord Steve Gord Goshen Friends School students Eliza Gowen James Gowen Kaitlyn Grenier Carl Grunwald Barbara Hahn Louis Hahn Janet Ham John Ham Pam Harrison Meg Hauler Alice Hausmann Peter Hausmann Nancy Hiro Steven Hiro Chris Hooven Bill Howard Lyn Howard Sarah Hutchin Jared Ingersoll Melissa Ingersoll Fred Jackson Krista Johnson Lauren Johnson Sheryl Johnson Todd Jones Alex Keane Kari Keane Pat Keane Toni Keane Christian Kelly

Tracy Kelly Andy Kerns Denise Kerns Emily Kissner Michael Kutz Sara Kutz-Yeager Mark Ledger Ted Leisenring Diana Lorine Cooey Lyon Todd MacFarlane Celia Martin Diane Mayer Carson McClain Doris McGovern Chris McHugh Gina McHugh Rob McManus Angel Mecca Nick Mecca Nick Mecca, Jr. Carolyn Milden David Nehring Matthew Nehring Mitchell Nehring Roger Nehring Mike O’Callahan Sheree O’Callahan Tara Off Bill Oliver Donna Oliver Elizabeth Orr Chris O’Shea Corinne O’Shea Rocco Pace Bernie Parsons

Mariana Pesthy Eleanor Peterson Karen Petrauskas Skip Petrauskas Andy Pitz Cody Pitz Eugene Potapov Kelly Prevost Travis Price Jim Rankin Cliff Reves Todd Richards Pam Riley George Rubin Alex Seewald Alice Sevareid Christine Seving Fritz Seving Win Shafer and family Heidi Sharkey Shipley School students Maureen Siddons Mike Siddons Ellen Simmons Lang Smith Maddie Smith Cathy Staples Natalie Staples Mike Starecky Leah Stauffer Amory Stedman Derek Stedman Tori Strange Art Strawbridge

Doris Strawbridge Liz Strawbridge Peter Strawbridge Sandie Sutherland Bob Taggart Pam Taggart Debi Taylor Lance Taylor Marilyn Taylor John Terrell Keenan Tucker Amy Turgeon Carolyn Turner Lindsey Turner Paige Turner University of Pennsylvania students Brint Van Alen Colby Van Alen Jim Van Alen Rob Van Alen Dale Vandegrift Jody Vandegrift Barbara Vincent Jeff Vincent Pepper Walkup Michael Wall Tana Wall Kerry Walsh Debbie Warden Jeff Warden Brad Whitman Effie Wister Alan Wood Celeste Yeager Janine Zozaya

This list may be incomplete; please forgive any omissions or errors.

do you love the truSt’S preServeS aNd the outdoorS aS Much aS We do?

Sabina louiSe Pierce

We are looking for a core group of interested and dedicated volunteers to assist with occasional projects at Kirkwood, Ashbridge and Rushton Woods Preserves! Tasks will include trail maintenance, fence repair, tree and branch removal and other important projects that keep our preserves healthy and attractive for all. If you are interested, please contact Bill Hartman, at (610) 353-2562, x-14 or wrh@wctrust.org. Enthusiastic “muckers” enjoy a day in the countryside as they charge down the hill at the start line of the 2010 Run-a-Muck trail loop. Spring 2011

W I L L I S T O W N C O N S E RVA T I O N T R U S T Jeanne B. Van Alen President/Executive Director

boarD of TruSTeeS Douglas C. Walker Chairman

925 Providence Road, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania 19073 (610) 353-2562 ~ Fax: (610) 325-0869 ~ www.wctrust.org

nonProfiT org u.S. PoSTage paid SouTheaSTern, Pa PermT no. 96

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Alice E. Hausmann Vice Chairman Elizabeth C. Hucker Treasurer Langhorne B. Smith Secretary James L. Van Alen II Assistant Secretary Timothy B. Barnard, Esq. Bryan D. Colket V. Richard Eales W. Anthony Hitschler William T. Howard Mark T. Ledger F. Arthur McMorris, Ph.D. Jennifer C. Moller Janice Murdoch Arthur E. Newbold Christine S. Seving Richard A. Shorr Peter S. Strawbridge Anson W. H. Taylor, III Tana Wall

The Willistown Conservation Trust is dedicated to preserving the open land, rural character, scenic, historic and ecologically significant resources of the Willistown area and nearby communities, with particular emphasis on the Crum, Ridley and Darby Creek watersheds.

Save the date!

STaff Dee Ann Bowman Director of Finance Ashley Brister Rushton Farm Field Managerr Sue R. Costello GIS Coordinator Fred de Long Director of Community Farm Program Elaine C. Gilmartin Director of Development and Community Outreach Blake Goll Stewardship Intern William R. Hartman, Jr. Director of Stewardship Lisa Kiziuk Associate Stewardship Manager Susie MacDonnell Events and PR Coordinator Joyce D. Spragins Communications and Technology Manager Elizabeth A. Stokes Assistant Director of Development John G. Turgeon Director of Public Grants and Associate Director of Land Protection Joanna Whitnah Rushton Farm Assistant Grower Lisa Wimble Rushton Farm Assistant Field Manager Willistown Conservation Trust is a nonprofit, tax-exempt corporation under Section 501(c)3 of the I.R.S. Code. Donations are tax-deductible. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the PA Department of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania, (800) 732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

Saturday, September 24, 2011 2:30 – 6:00 pm Heartwood Far m Corner of Goshen and Providence Roads

Celebrate our open spaces by joining us for this family-friendly cross-country run and ramble followed by music and a festive country supper. Enjoy Willistown’s fall colors and preserved landscapes on trail loops over hill and dale. We promise fun for all — speed demons, families and dog-walkers alike. Start and finish at Heartwood Farm and then be prepared to kick up your heels!

SGP Sustainable Green Printing Partnership