THE SYCAMORE Vol. VII, Issue 1
Newsletter of
Spring 2006
W I L L I ST OW N C O N S E RV AT I O N T R U ST
Announcing the “Campaign for the Countryside” A $7 million campaign to protect our remaining critical lands.
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s I write, it is early Statistics show that one acre every hour, every day, spring in the Willistown countryside and, as is my is lost to development in the region, so it is urgent custom, I took a walk that we act now to preserve today over to the pond at Rushton Farm. I was these precious resources... before it is too late. rewarded by the sight The objectives of of a hundred or so waterfowl milling and the Campaign for the Countryside, under the chatting on the pond and guidance of co-chairs counted six separate Doug Walker and Jennifer species of migratory Moller, are: 1) to assure ducks that had chosen the financial stability this place as a stopover of the Willistown Conseron their way north. Haywagon ride at Kirkwood Preserve...We’re on a roll! vation Trust and the I thought of their remarkable beauty and endurance and felt exceedingly continuence of its land protection, land stewardship, grateful for the many individuals and organizations that, over educational and outreach activities; 2) to renovate the farmthe past twenty-six years, have helped permanently preserve house at 925 Providence Road to provide a long-term places like Rushton and nearly six thousand acres in the Trust functional office and workspace for Trust staff and program area. It is a profound thought that these lands will community volunteers; and 3) to support a 23 acre addition continue to provide a safe haven for migrating waterfowl and to the Kirkwood Preserve that includes a headwater tributary a myriad of other flora and fauna for years to come ... just as to the Crum Creek and expands the preserve to 83 acres. The good news is that during the “quiet phase” of they have for thousands of years in the past. While it is a pleasure to dwell on past successes, the Campaign, our Board of Trustees and many of the Trust’s I am even more excited to let you know of the Trust’s major loyal supporters have contributed an amazing $5 million commitment to the future of conservation in the Willistown toward the $7 million goal, leaving $2 million to be raised by area by announcing our ambitious $7 million Campaign for the close of the campaign at the end of 2006. The generous the Countryside. The campaign will address the compelling need Colket Challenge, described on page two, will hopefully to preserve another five thousand acres of ecologically critical provide the impetus to take our campaign over the top. You lands that remain vulnerable to development in our program will be hearing more about the Campaign in the coming area, while responsibly providing stewardship to those lands months and when you do, I hope you will consider your own which have already been protected. The distinctive character commitment to the future of this glorious countryside. of the Willistown countryside and the beauty of our upper Crum, Ridley and Darby Creek watersheds are at stake. Bonnie Van Alen, President
For the preservation of the natural resources, rural character, and cultural heritage of the Willistown area.
T HE S YCAMORE
The Colket Challenge Gift to the Campaign for the Countryside
We are thrilled to announce that our good friends
We urge all who care for our magnificent environment to take advantage of the Colkets’ generous offer and to join them in supporting the campaign. If you’ve already given, consider making another gift. If you haven’t yet made your commitment, please do so as soon as possible. This challenge will double the impact of your gift.
and neighbors Ruth and Tris Colket have pledged a generous challenge gift of $500,000 to the Campaign for the Countryside! The Colkets have offered to match dollar-for-dollar, up to a maximum of $500,000, any contribution of $15,000 or more made by December 2006. Pledges toward the Colket Challenge may be paid over a period of up to five years. The Challenge will ensure the successful conclusion of the campaign.
Much of the Willistown countryside has been preserved through the foresight of those who came before us. Now it is our turn to be wise and generous stewards and pass these lands along intact to future generations.
Message from the Chairman
A s I began to think
them the beautiful woodland trees change color and shape about a message for as the season’s progress. We listen with them to the soft this year’s Sycamore, I murmuring of the meandering creeks as they wind their way was surprised to realize to the sea. We smell the delicious aromas of the meadow grasses that 2006 marks the and observe the busy work of the array of wild creatures as Willistown Conservation they pursue their day and night-time activities in the air, water Trust’s tenth year as and on land. an independent land trust. Much has been It is the recognition of the value of these life-enriching accomplished by the experiences and the desire, even obligation, to pass them on to organization since its our children, grandchildren and future generations that is at inception in 1996 and the heart of what we do, and what motivates us at the I would like to believe that Willistown Conservation Trust. These experiences sooth and the Trust has come to restore us and, most importantly, reconnect us with our be regarded as a real asset to the communities it serves. natural heritage. Partnering with conservation minded individuals over the years to preserve well over five thousand acres of open space in the Darby, Crum and Ridley Creek watersheds makes those of us connected with the Trust feel like we are pursuing a mission that is, in a sense, ennobling. We hear frequently from those people who with their families are able to enjoy the lovely, unspoiled countryside’s parks, preserves and trail systems that have been created by the work of the Trust’s staff. We see with Spring
To those of you who have supported the Trust through contributions to our annual fundraising appeal, we express our heartfelt thanks. And to those many friends who have already made pledges to the Trust’s Campaign for the Countryside, it is your early commitment to this vitally important campaign that will enable the Trust to sustain and build upon the good work that has been done and of which we are all the beneficiaries. Peter Strawbridge
WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 2
2006
T HE S YCAMORE
Trust Mourns Loss of a Friend and Advisor Anson W. H. Taylor, Jr. (1929-2006)
O n March 31, Anson W. H.
personal drive, including the Equestrian Land Conservation Resource, Radnor Hunt, Radnor Hunt Pony Club, Brandywine Conservancy, the Willistown Trails Association and the Willistown Conservation Trust. Anson was presented with a calligraphy scroll listing his many contributions to each organization and the closing paragraph captures the spirit of his work: “Anson W. H. Taylor, Jr. shall be forever held in the highest regard and affection for carrying out the above activities with dedication, great good humor, an endearing personal style and a steadfastness to his ideal of promoting the horse and equestrian activities in all conservation projects, and he shall be seen as a model for all who benefit from his legacy.”
While Anson took up riding later in life—he had his first riding lesson at age 37— equestrian activities became his passion. He rode two to three times a week, fox hunted regularly and devoted his philanthropic pursuits to keeping land open for horse enthusiasts both locally and around the country. He played a personal role in protecting the Willistown area, placing conservation easements on his own lands and guiding the protection of adjacent lands through Fox Creek Associates partnership.
MARY HUNT DAVIS
Taylor, Jr., a devoted trustee and close friend of the Trust, passed away suddenly following an afternoon ride in the countryside. Anson positively influenced land conservation in the Willistown area for more than 25 years and his loss will be felt deeply.
Our hearts go out to his wife, Marilyn; his children Stuart, Laura and Lance; his daughters-in-law Jane and Debi; and his two grandchildren. To honor Anson’s memory, the Willistown Conservation Trust has established the Anson Taylor Fund for the Countryside. Anson had an abiding love for the Willistown area and he was committed to raising funds so that the Trust could continue its land conservation activities. Income from the fund will be used to further the Trust’s mission to protect the Willistown countryside.
Anson became a trustee of the Willistown Conservation Trust in 2001 and was a guiding force in the areas of governance, land protection, finance and fundraising. In January 2006 he was elected Secretary of the Board and was making great strides to prepare the Trust for formal accreditation by the Land Trust Alliance. He provided thoughtful counsel in countless areas and was actively engaged in securing gifts for the capital campaign to strengthen the work of the Trust.
Gifts may be sent to the Willistown Conservation Trust, Last October, Anson was honored for his work in conserving 925 Providence Road, Newtown Square, PA 19073. Please land and access for equestrians by a host of friends and include a notation that you wish to designate your gift for the colleagues at Radnor Hunt. He was recognized by the many Anson Taylor Fund. organizations whose work has benefited from his passion and
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WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 3
2006
T HE S YCAMORE
Conservation Report Three Hundred Acres Added to Protected Lands in 2005 ~ Last Two Tracts at Kirkwood Farm Preserved by Conservation Buyers ~ 23 Critical Acres added to Kirkwood Preserve ~New Easement Further Protects Crumdale Farm ~ Two New Easements and an Easement Modification
S
ince the last issue of The Sycamore, the Trust has overseen the
We are thankful that the Gorton family (after a couple of years on the Trust’s list of conservation buyers) has ended up owning this beautiful portion of Kirkwood Farm, and know that they will continue to be thoughtful stewards for years to come. Welcome and thank you, Lori and Gary.
preservation of three hundred additional acres of the special natural, scenic and recreational resources that define the Willistown area. Each of these additional preserved properties makes a significant contribution to the Trust’s urgent mission to protect as much of the remaining critical land in our area as possible ... as soon as possible. We are grateful to the generous and forward thinking landowners and the many other partners who helped accomplish the wonderful successes of 2005. Following are the highlights of recent conservation projects.
GORTON AND MURDOCH EASEMENTS PRESERVE LAST TWO TRACTS AT KIRKWOOD FARM
The Murdoch Easement
Gorton farmhouse on the move.
approximately 50 feet back from its original location a few feet from the edge of Goshen Road. The successful relocation of the historic farmhouse will preserve its structural and historic The Gorton Easement integrity by distancing it from the traffic In June 2005, Lori and Gary Gorton on Goshen Road, and allow it to better donated a conservation easement to the function as part of the plan to restore Trust protecting the 43 acre tract they the other structures in the farm complex. had acquired as part of the conservation effort to preserve 324 acres of the The generous easement donated by the beautiful Kirkwood Farm. The property Gortons restricts further residential is located on the north side of Goshen structures on the property to one primary Road and includes two classic fieldstone residence and provides for an equestrian stables, a small bank barn and an trail easement from Kirkwood Preserve, historic stone farmhouse. The Gortons ensuring that there will continue to be have since completed the extraordinary access through the property to the existtask of moving the stone farmhouse ing network of trails in the community. Spring
With approximately 73 acres of the North Tract of Kirkwood Farm still available for acquisition last spring, conservation buyers Janice and Britt Murdoch proposed a generous plan to acquire 50 acres, thus providing a unique opportunity for the Trust to acquire a critical 23 acre addition to the 60 acre Kirkwood Preserve (see following details). By mid-summer the Murdochs had completed their 50 acre acquisition and had subsequently donated a very generous conservation easement to the Trust. The easement limits residential structures on the 50 acres to one primary residence and one attached apartment and, like the Gorton easement, provides an equestrian trail through the property in perpetuity. Not surprisingly, with the well being of their horses a high priority, the first plan submitted by Janice and Britt for Trust approval is a lovely stable designed by John Milner. We look forward to seeing further plans evolve, knowing that this Conservation Report continued on page 5.
WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 4
2006
T HE S YCAMORE funding then available. Accordingly, the CRUMDALE FARM Trust proceeded to acquire the original IS ENHANCED BY special part of Kirkwood Farm is in very sixty acres with the generous funding good hands. NEW CONSERVATION support of Willistown Township, Chester EASEMENT The Trust and the community also owe a huge County, and the PA Department of The story of the preservation of the 158 thank you to Janice and Britt Murdoch for Natural Resources and our partners at acre Crumdale Farm on Grubb Mill allowing the “Celebrating Kirkwood” party Natural Lands Trust. Road began in 1978 when its owner, to take place on their property overlooking With the decision made to seize this new Eugenia Madeira, donated one of the the Kirkwood Preserve last October. It was opportunity, the trustees committed to first conservation easements in the a spectacular evening that the 320 attendees raising the $1 million acquisition cost Willistown area. As was often the case will not soon forget! by increasing the goal for the Campaign with early easements, the Crumdale Farm for the Countryside to $7 million. We are easement was donated to the Brandywine TWENTY-THREE ACRES exceedingly grateful that Willistown Conservancy and covered primarily the ADDED TO Township through its Open Space Fund areas of the farm bordering the Crum KIRKWOOD PRESERVE has once again provided significant Creek. After Miss Madiera’s niece, Ellen When the opportunity arose for the funding, as have Chester County, the PA Mary Meigs, inherited the property she Trust to acquire a 23 acre addition to Department of Natural Resources, and and her husband Henry expanded the the existing 60 acre Kirkwood Preserve to date, two individual community protection of the farm by donating at a bargain sale price of $1 million, the supporters. While there remains a short- another more extensive easement to the trustees did not hesitate. As it happened, fall of $200,000, we are optimistic that Brandywine Conservancy in 1987. the 23 acre parcel (which now extends with the help of the community, this the preserve south along Grubb Mill all important addition to the Kirkwood Driven by a deep sense of stewardship the way to the intersection with Goshen Preserve will be fully funded by the close for the land, a determination to Road) had originally been identified by of the Campaign for the Countryside in permanently preserve the extensive trails the Trust as highly desirable for its many December, 2006. If you have not already on her property, and a desire to better critical natural and scenic features, but taken a walk over Kirkwood Preserve’s address the property in her estate most likely unaffordable considering 83 acres and one and a half miles of planning process, Ellen Mary asked her the high land value and sources of trails we encourage you to do so. We attorneys to work with Brandywine and know you the Trust to devise a new plan. The outwill find it come was the assignment of the a special Brandywine easement to the Willistown s a n c t u a r y Conservation Trust in early 2005, the for people creation of a family partnership, and the and wildlife! subsequent donation of a new easement to the Trust. The new easement encompasses all of the provisions of the prior easements, adds restrictions preserving the entire network of trails, and further limits the number of allowable residential structures on the farm in perpetuity.
Conservation Report continued from page 4.
Crumdale Farm on its own is a highly important property, considering its extensive frontage along the Crum Creek Grand old oak stands watch over Kirkwood Preserve grasslands.
Spring
Conservation Report continued on page 6.
WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 5
2006
T HE S YCAMORE Conservation Report continued from page 5.
(a state designated high water quality stream), its open, rolling fields, mature woodlands and numerous historic structures. When added to the protected lands of the Kirkwood Preserve which abuts it to the south, the preservation of Crumdale Farm takes on an even greater significance. Thanks to the foresight of Eugenia Madeira, followed by the thoughtful planning of Ellen Mary Meigs and her family, Crumdale Farm will provide an enormous benefit to the Willistown area for many years to come.
wooded property of mature hardwood trees such as oak, hickory and beech. It also contains frontage along Hunter Run, a scenic tributary of the Ridley Creek, as well as steep slopes. The easement includes a protected trail corridor, and limits further development on the site to an addition to the existing primary residence and accessory structures in close proximity to the residence. The Schwartz property is connected to two large tracts also protected by conservation easements, the
Hitschler and Pitt properties. We are grateful to the Schwartz’ for protecting their important property in this uniquely rural corner of Willistown.
RUSSELL EASEMENT MODIFICATION In December of 2005, Greg Russell completed a modification of the conservation easement he had donated in 1999 on a twenty acre parcel of land adjacent Conservation Report continued on page 7.
THE WATKINS EASEMENT In July 2005, Penny and Tom Watkins completed a conservation easement on their newly purchased property located on Marlborough Road across from the “Old Kirkwood” far mstead. The property will serve as the Watkins’ primary residence, and they are making significant renovations to the existing house that was originally constructed in the 18th century. Major improvements are also being made to the landscaping surrounding the house. The easement limits additional development on the nine acre property to accessory structures only. It protects the sensitive riparian areas along Bartram Run, a tributary stream of the Crum Creek, as well as woodlands, and a large area of pasture. Through this generous donation, the Watkins are expanding an area of protected open space, and helping to maintain the rural character of Marlborough Road, one of the most scenic roads in the Willistown area.
THE SCHWARTZ EASEMENT Nate and Edda Schwartz donated a conservation easement last summer on their 14 acre property located off Garrett Mill Road in the southwest portion of Willistown Township. This is a mostly Spring
YELLOW WOOD FARM
Yellow Wood Farm is a special country property comprising approximately 31 acres of rolling open fields and woodlands in the heart of the Willistown Conservation Trust program area. Located at 6041 Goshen Road, in Willistown Township, it adjoins large tracts of land preserved by conservation easements. The future protection of Yellow Wood Farm is critical to the goals of the Trust to maintain the contiguous open space and rural character of the area. The historic farmhouse and charming Chester County bank barn date to the late 1700’s and enjoy a southern exposure and view overlooking a quiet meadow and small tributary that runs into Crum Creek. Working with the Delchester Group, Inc., (the not for profit corporation presently marketing Yellow Wood Farm) the Trust has prepared a conservation plan to protect the special natural and scenic features of the property, and is seeking conservation minded buyers who would wish to implement the plan.
WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 6
2006
T HE S YCAMORE Conservation Report continued from page 6.
to his home property located on Hunt Club Lane. The land is currently undeveloped and consists mainly of open grassland with a small area of woodland on a sloping hillside. The easement modification removes the right granted under the original easement to develop the property as two primary residential lots. The modified easement limits to improvements on the property to agricultural structures and two secondary residential structures to be constructed only at such time as a parcel is merged with an adjacent primary residential lot. Many thanks to Greg Russell for this generous modification which serves to even better protect the important land under his stewardship.
O’HARA EASEMENT COMPLETES PROTECTION OF THE THOMPSON FAMILY LANDS
pedestrian, equestrian and vehicular access to the eased area. The O’Haras recently sold the property to Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Babiy who plan to construct their primary residence on In 2004, Sean and Catherine O’Hara the non-eased portion of the property. purchased the last remaining unprotected acreage of the former The O’Hara easement donation Thompson estate in Easttown Township, completes the conservation plan a 12 acre parcel bordering South Leop- developed for the 47 acre Thompson ard Road. In November of 2005, the property in 2002. Since the inception of O’haras donated a conservation the plan, conservation easements have easement on a nine acre portion of this been donated on four lots covering just property, protecting the open meadow- over 44 acres and limiting the number lands and the sensitive riparian areas of new primary residences on the propalong a headwater tributary to the erty to three. The Thompson family lands Darby creek. The easement restricts comprised one of the last relatively development on the nine acres to a run- undeveloped large tracts within the in-shed, access drives, and fences, as well upper Darby Creek watershed in as two small bridges over the stream for Easttown Township.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ INNOVATIVE FARMER COMES TO WILLISTOWN TO SPEAK ABOUT SUSTAINABLE FARMING While the seminar attracted individuals actively engaged in farming pursuits, others came because they have an interest in eating healthful, locally grown food. One byproduct of the program has been a groundswell of interest in “community supported agriculture” (CSA) in Willistown. In basic terms, a CSA consists of a community of individuals who make a financial committment to the farmer at the beginning of the growing season. In this way, consumers share the risks of food production with the farmer. In return, they receive shares of the farm’s bounty throughout the growing season, as well as satisfaction gained from reconnecting to the land and participating directly in food production.
Local residents Lynn and Tony Hitschler, eager to establish a sustainable farming program on their Willistown farm, had read a number of books by Joel Salatin. Farmer Joel Salatin The Hitschlers felt others might be interested in learning more about his practices and offered to co-host a program with the Trust. On February 11, under the threat of an impending snowstorm, the Virginia farmer came to Garrett Mill Farm and kept a crowd of 60 farming enthusiasts spellbound with descriptions of his environmentally-friendly family operation in the Shenandoah Valley. Salatin is one of the most sought after speakers in sustainable agriculture in the nation and those lucky enough to attend the seminar now know why. Part innovative farmer, part preacher and part philosopher, Salatin has popularized the concept of using well-managed pastures for multi-species grazing, and selling the fruits of those labors directly from the farm. Thank you Tony and Lynn for opening your farm to all of us—it was a treat! Spring
If you would like to participate on a committee to explore the possibility of establishing a CSA in the Willistown area, please contact Betsy Block: 610-353-2562 ext.13 or bhb@wctrust.org.
WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 7
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T HE S YCAMORE
Stewardship Report
Willistown Conservation Trust is de-
veloping and implementing an expanded land stewardship agenda that includes extended outreach to landowners, as well as the proper management of our own preserves. The Trust has determined three stewardship priorities that are needed to significantly protect and enhance the ecological integrity of the Upper Ridley/Crum Important Bird Area (IBA) which includes approximately 15,000 acres of the Trust program area. The first priority is to reduce the impact of an overabundant deer population on native plants and wildlife. The second priority is to control the spread of highly invasive, exotic plant species that otherwise would crowd out native plants that wildlife depends on. The third priority is to actively enhance and restore portions of our landscape. It is by implementing these three priorities; managing deer, controlling invasive plants, and restoring a biologically rich landscape, that we feel we can improve the quality of life for humans and wildlife in the Upper Ridley/ Crum IBA. Following is a synopsis of some of the stewardship activities planned to achieve these goals.
seedlings; and how this negatively affects bird species that depend on this regeneration. As the Trust develops a strategy, landowners, hunters and other advocates will have a resource to effectively reduce the impacts of overabundant deer.
insects and cavity nesting birds, and change mowing schedules to allow grassland birds to fledge. There will be a riparian buffer planting this fall on one of our preserves. Please contact Eugenia or Jodi at 610-353-2562 ext.18 if you are interested in helping out.
Working with Audubon Pennsylvania, we will be placing several deer exclosures throughout the IBA to protect the plant life inside them. This will help demonstrate how regenerated woodlands can improve bird habitat. Data will be collected on the presence of targeted bird species and their abundance over time, both inside and outside the exclosures. These species indicate a regenerating woodland, and by studying their change over time, we hope to determine the health of the woodland inside the exclosure. (See box on page nine for the target list of bird species).
In order to restore places where cavity nesting birds can raise their young, the Trust is implementing a bird box program. Due to a lack of older trees that contain appropriate cavities, these birds often move on from an area until they find the right location, or settle for an inferior site. The best ways to accommodate these species is to let dead or dying trees stand, and to supplement those with bird boxes. The Trust has 100 boxes for sale that have been built for pileated, red-headed, and red-bellied woodpeckers, blue bird, kestrel, barn owl, wood duck and other species. Anyone who is interested in purchasing a box will be asked to complete an information form, keep track of any activity in the box and report activities back to the Trust on a semi annual basis. (We will email you reminders twice a year.) In addition to providing homes for these birds, we hope to collect relevant information on nesting success. If you have an interest in being a part of this program, as either a monitor or to purchase a box, contact Alex Van Alen at 610-353-2562 ext.14.
CONTROLLING INVASIVE PLANTS
Through this initiative the Trust will be developing a priority list of weeds for control in our IBA and emphasizing proper management by working with landowners and land managers. We will also actively manage our own preserves to control these plants. To learn more DEER MANAGEMENT Initially, the Trust will promote an about invasive plants and their control, understanding of the overabundant deer please see Erin Van Yahre’s article on problem through literature and events page nine. such as the lecture held on February 24th HABITAT ENHANCEMENT featuring experts Gary Alt, Tim Schaeffer AND RESTORATION and Bryon Shissler. We will emphasize In this broad category, among other how an overabundant deer population decreases survival of native plants, activities the Trust will expand its efforts including orchids and other wildflowers; to restore riparian buffers, plant native impacts regeneration of woodlands by grasses and wildflowers, install bird boxes, eating the shrub layer, saplings and keep snags (dead trees) standing for Spring
The Trust is in an exciting period of increased stewardship activities. With the enthusiasm and help of partner organizations, landowners and volunteers, we aim to make the Upper Ridley/Crum IBA a model for land stewardship in our region.
WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 8
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T HE S YCAMORE
UNDERSTANDING INVASIVE PLANTS IN OUR WOODLAND FORESTS by Erin Van Yahres Literature on invasive plants is becoming more available and easier to understand with two excellent publications that recently became available to Pennsylvania residents. The first publication is the USDA Invasive Plants Field and Reference Guide: An Ecological Perspective of Plant Invaders of Forests & Woodlands, which can be found at www.na.fs.fed.us/fhp/invasive_plants/ index.shtm. Both the booklet and the web site provide excellent photographs of the USDA’s top ten invasive plants of the northeastern U.S., including Norway Maple, Multiflora Rose, Japanese Stiltgrass, Oriental Bittersweet, and Mile-a-minute weed.
I. Bird species targeted as indicators of woodland health that rely heavily on ground and shrub layers of woodlands: Worm-eating warbler Kentucky warbler Hooded warbler Wood thrush Veery Other woodland species that will be noted in the study include: Least fly-catcher, Acadian fly-catcher, Ovenbird, Cerulean warbler, Wood thrush Northern parula, Black-throated green warbler, Louisiana waterthrush
The second publication is a tri-fold brochure produced with the cooperation of several private and state agencies. The brochure is being distributed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in Pennsylvania (www.nps.gov/plants/alien) and it gives basic information as to what an invasive plant is, its characteristics and how it impacts our ecosystem. The tools suggested to minimize the problems of invasive plants are basic and easily performed by almost any landowner. The brochures are also available free from the local county cooperative extension offices.
STEVE MASLOWSKI, USFWS
TARGETED BIRD SPECIES AS PART OF TRUST PARTNERSHIP WITH AUDUBON PA
II. Bird species targeted as indicators of grassland health – all potentially breed in Southeastern PA: Eastern Meadowlark Bobolink Field Sparrow Grasshopper Sparrow Savannah Sparrow Song Sparrow Vesper Sparrow Upland Sandpiper Northern Bobwhite Short-eared owl Northern Harrier
The government agencies involved in putting these guides together have made a long term commitment to enlist the help of landowners to control the spread of invasive plants. This is good news for the environment. Education about the species that are considered invasive with a review of its biology and characteristics is the first step to addressing strategies for their suppression.
Erin Van Yahres is a certified Arborist with Arader Tree Service, Inc. Chris Arader has generously donated his staff’s time and expertise to the Trust. His team removed and pruned a number of trees surrounding our office on a pro bono basis. Many, many thanks!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HELP THE TRUST BUILD A RESOURCE LIBRARY
Our spacious new office allows the Trust an opportunity to create a reference and lending library for use by our staff and the Willistown community. Our present “library” is in its infancy and we need your help to grow it. If you have any books you think might relate to the mission of the Trust that you would like to donate (natural science books, bird books, plant identification books, local history books, etc.), please drop them off at the office. Additionally, the Trust has registered a “wish list” at Chester County Books & Music, 975 Paoli Pike, West Chester (610-696-1661) if you would like to donate a new book to our collection.
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WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 9
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T HE S YCAMORE
KIRKWOOD WORK DAY
On Saturday, March 18th, about 30 workhorse
volunteers gathered at the Trust’s Kirkwood Preserve to replace old fence rails along Grubbs Mill and Goshen Roads, remove dead branches and create an impressive burn pile for our upcoming May 13th festivities (see events on page 12). It was a beautiful, chilly day, which energized everyone to get there early and work long. Special thanks to Frank Herz of Ashbridge Landscaping for providing his dump truck, and Ted and Lindsey Leisenring, Tony and Lyn Hitschler, and Brook Gardner and Jodi Spragins for providing their tractors. Many others brought trucks, chainsaws, hammers, and wire cutters to make the crew a well oiled machine. After a hard day’s work, these hardy volunteers asked for more. Just to accommodate them, we plan on having more work days throughout the year. If you are interested, please contact Jodi or Eugenia at 610-353-2562 ext. 18 to be put on our volunteer email list.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ANNUAL DINNER AND LECTURE “The Challenges of Overabundant Deer”
To kick off the Trust’s
and legal hurdles that effective deer management education campaign about must overcome, and some the impacts of overthoughts on how landownabundant deer, we held our ers, hunters and other annual dinner lecture on advocates can help get this February 24th at the issue under control both Edgmont Golf Club. locally and across the state. Featured were Dr. Gary There are not many issues Alt, Bryon Shissler and our that provoke such a wide newest board member and range of opinions, and we Speakers Gary Alt, Bryon Shissler and Tim Schaeffer with Executive Director of trustees Bonnie Van Alen and Peter Strawbridge. thank these gentlemen for Audubon PA, Dr. Tim Schaeffer. These three experts presented an overview of the helping focus on what will no doubt be an ongoing discussion ecological impacts of overabundant deer, the administrative as we tackle this critical ecological issue in our area. Spring
WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST 10
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Testimony of a Neighbor IT’S OURS FOR THE KEEPING by Jodi Spragins
As
one of the very special treat to be able to fortunate people who live in ride together with her there. Willistown, I had heard that Sometimes we ride through, the Trust was working on other times we make it a securing what we always destination. The mown referred to as the “Scott paths circumnavigate some Property”, the scenic open spectacular trees on the fields and farm land which property, and when we are seemed to define so much of trotting through the paths, the rural character along we have made it our ritual Providence and Goshen to follow the path and circle Roads. Over the years my each of these trees, making family sent many prayers and a loop, rather than just wishful thoughts (and going straight around each meager contributions) on Jodi Spragins with daughter Ainsley and horses Cooper and Annie. one. What fun. behalf of those monumenMy absolute favorite part is tal efforts. But it wasn’t until I was driving home from work the highest point on the preserve, which is fittingly topped by one day, turning off of Goshen on to Grubb Road towards Barr, that I realized this dream piece of land was finally ours a glorious red oak tree. Of course, it has a path mown all the for the keeping. Two women were on horses, walking along way around it and even if we are in the middle of a trotting Grubb Road, on the inside of the fenceline — how exciting! session, we always pause here to enjoy the view. I feel like I am I rolled down my window and asked them how the trails were, in a painting when I am up there, and deeply mindful of how and if indeed, we were allowed to ride there. They acknowl- truly fortunate I am. edged the completion of the Trust’s efforts to protect this land, As a nearby neighbor and horse owner, for years I have now called the Kirkwood Preserve, glowing with enthusiasm. admired and longingly viewed what is now the Kirkwood Giddy with the news, I went right home and tacked up my pony and headed out to explore the new Kirkwood Preserve, a ten minute ride by horseback from my small farm on Hillview Road. I was thrilled with what I found: mown paths artfully meandering through acres of glorious grasslands, skirting woods, split rail fencing, and a small stream, and following up and down what have to be some of the loveliest hills on earth, punctuated by huge specimen trees. The sensation of trotting along these mown paths, when the expanse of adjacent uncut grasses is several feet high, is an exhilarating feeling. It’s almost like being on a sailboat, cutting a channel though open water.
Preserve as one of the treasures of the Willistown Area, wishing that we could at least get permission to ride our horses there. Established riding trails abound on all sides of the Preserve, and it is an important keystone for trail riders. The prospect of a housing development being built there was a nightmare, and in the meantime it was frustrating to see all of that open space and not be able to step foot on it. Now, not only can we ride there, but we have the comforting knowledge that this land will be here for everyone to enjoy forever, just the way it is now, with the tender care so carefully administered by the Trust. It’s ours for the keeping.
My daughter, Ainsley, and I have since claimed the Kirkwood Preserve as one of our favorite “hacks”. We regularly ride there when the weather and footing is good, and she has found it to be a perfect place to keep her competition mount fit. It’s a
Jodi Spragins was District Commissioner of Radnor Hunt Pont Club from 2002-05 and is an avid trail rider and occasional foxhunter. She has been of invaluable assistance in the Trust’s office during Trisha Lambert’s maternity leave.
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Activities and Events CHESTER-RIDLEY CRUM WATERSHEDS ASSOCIATION STREAMS CLEANUP May 6
If the health of our watersheds matters to you, please
This year, Willistown Township’s cleanup site will be Okehocking Preserve, where volunteers will not only clean up trash from around Route 3, but also help Lyondell employees in their Global Care Day project at the site. Volunteers are needed to build deer exclosures, prune back invasives and plant trees.
volunteer for the 9th Annual CRC Streams Cleanup on Saturday, May 6 from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Last year’s event involved over 400 residents in the removal of 16 tons of trash from thirty different sites along streams, from Chester City to Marple. Willistown Conservation Trust and Willistown Township are among the sponsors supporting CRC’s 2006 Streams Cleanup, along with lead sponsors Aqua Pennsylvania, Starbucks Coffee Company and Lyondell.
All participants are invited to a “thank you” picnic afterwards at Rose Tree Park and will receive the ever popular CRC Cleanup T-shirt! To volunteer at Okehocking Preserve, please contact Township Preserve Manager Mary McLoughlin at 610640-1669 or mhm@willistown.pa.us.
Join us for our Creek Week Event! KIRKWOOD PRESERVE EXPLORATION FOLLOWED BY BONFIRE & PICNIC SUPPER SATURDAY, MAY 13TH, 2006 4:OO PM Grubbs Mill Road, 1/4 mile north of Goshen Road, Willistown Township (on the beautiful Crum Creek) Join members of the Trust’s staff as well as naturalist guides for a walking tour of Kirkwood Preserve and surrounding protected land, including a beautiful stretch of Crum Creek. Bring a picnic supper and blanket and stay for a bonfire after the walk! Children welcome—sorry, no pets. Waterproof boots, binoculars and field guides are recommended. To assist in our planning, please register by calling 610-353-2562 ext. 18. 4:00 p.m.
Meet at Kirkwood Preserve parking area
Walk will last approximately 2 hours 6:00 p.m.
Bonfire begins!
This event is part of “Creek Weeks”, an annual series of events established by our friends at the Chester-Ridley-Crum Watersheds Association to raise awareness and encourage stewardship of these three local creeks.
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Activities and Events (Continued) 10TH ANNUAL RADNOR HUNT CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE September 8-10
SAVE THE DATE
“Golf and Good Nature” 4th Annual Golf Outing Waynesborough Country Club
The 10th Annual Concours d’Elegance, a nationally recognized event, will feature dramatic French coachwork, historic Porsche racing and road cars, and Triumph motorcycles. The weekend’s activities include a road rally through the beautiful Willistown countryside, a black tie gala at Radnor Hunt and a fabulous car show limited to 100 carefully selected entries.
Monday, September 25
We are proud to welcome Devon Hill BMW as our presenting sponsor this year (thank you Cortie Wetherill!) and we invite you to join them as an outing sponsor, either as an individual or through your professional associations. Other major sponsors to date include Brandywine Realty Trust, Claneil Foundation, TL Ventures, Quaker Funds, Viwenco Inc. and “a fan of the Willistown Conservation Trust.”
For the seventh consecutive year, the Willistown Conservation Trust has been selected as a beneficiary of the Concours. We are grateful to the Concours Committee for their continuing generosity and support of our mission. Hope to see you at the show—you will be greeted by Trust volunteers at registration! For more information about the Concours d’Elegance or to purchase tickets for the weekend’s events, please visit their website at www.radnorconcours.org. Telephone inquiries should be made to 610-353-3536.
For more information about participating in the outing, as either a sponsor or player, please contact Betsy Block at 610-353-2562 ext. 13
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ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP FESTIVAL at Willistown Friends Meeting September 16
To promote practical, environmentally sound actions which
25 local environmental organizations including Willistown Conservation Trust. In addition to formal presentations, the Friends are planning nature walks on their 42 acre property, pumpkin painting, bird and bat box construction, live music and a display of nature-inspired art. For more information, please contact Bernard Cooker (610-644-9084) or Derek Stedman (dcsahs@netreach.net).
individuals can use in their daily lives, Willistown Friends Meeting is hosting its second Environmental Stewardship Festival on Saturday, September 16, 2006. This family-friendly day of activities will run from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will include talks on topics such as creating a backyard wildlife habitat and using alternative energy sources. Last year’s event attracted 200 to 300 attendees and participation from
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Since our last edition of
Staff and Trustee News
for the Upper Ridley/Crum Important Bird Area The Sycamore in Spring Model Conservation and 2005, we have increased our Restoration Initiative; staff, added two trustees to spearheading the Trust the Board and welcomed partnership activities with a new little “tree hugger” Audubon PA; monitoring into the world! the 47 conservation easeSTAFF NEWS ments held by the Trust; undertaking conservation Last fall, to better address easement plan reviews as the Trust’s growing land submitted by easement landand easement stewardship owners; and landowner responsibilities, the Trust outreach and education on made an important change land management issues. to its organizational structure. The Trust is presently While land protection and 925 Providence Road ~ The Trust’s new office! engaged in search for a stewardship activities are still well coordinated, they are now managed under separate “hats.” part-time Associate Stewardship Manager. This change is a first step toward meeting our 2005-09 strategic planning goal of separating the Land Protection and In March 2006, we welcomed Chris Thompson to the staff as our new Director of Land Protection. Chris brings with Land Stewardship programs. him a strong connection to the land, having spent the last few Alex Van Alen, who had been overseeing both areas for years managing Garrett Mill Farm for Lynn and Tony Hitschler. the past few years, is now the Land and Easement He oversaw the reconstruction of seven historical buildings, Stewardship Manager on a half-time basis. His responsibilities managed the 80 acre property and helped the Hitschlers include: management and maintenance of all the Trust explore farming options for the land. In partnership with John preserves; administration of the William Penn Foundation grant Turgeon, Associate Director of Land Protection, Chris will
A WORD FROM OUR NEW DIRECTOR OF LAND PROTECTION It is indeed a privilege to join such a focused and professional group of individuals at the Trust who have come together to serve a single mission of protecting lands that they love. As America grapples with how to deal with development sprawl that is eating up two million acres a year, the Willistown Conservation Trust and other community based Trusts around the country are the frontline conservation leaders engaged in trench warfare against the development sprawl. Managing the Hitschler Farm for the last two years provided me with many tools and an appreciation in land conservation, historic renovation, and a passion for the beautiful Chester County countryside. As a practicing landscape painter, Kirkwood Preserve and other magical spots in Willistown have given me great inspiration for my work and a deeper connection to the land. I look forward to taking a leadership role in protecting another 5,000 acres in the Willistown area! Chistopher A. Thompson
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T HE S YCAMORE focus his efforts on protecting the nearly 5,000 acres of land and Lynn have been actively in our program area that remain vulnerable to further involved in a number of Trust development. This is the highest priority of our 2005-09 Long events and activities, hosting both Range Plan, as the development of these critical properties a pond and stream workshop and a sustainable farming program at would forever change the character of the Willistown countryside. Chris comes to the Trust with an impressive management their farm. Considered to be a background (including years of experience managing special pioneer of modern value investing, Tony brings significant business events in the city of Chicago). His abilities and energy will be put to good use as he undertakes this significant change of experience to our Board. A graduate career direction with the Trust. Chris holds a BA in Anthropology of Chestnut Hill Academy and and Art and an MFA/Masters of Art, both from Northwestern Princeton University, Tony founded Brandywine Asset University. Chris lives in Berwyn with his wife, Sandra, and his Management in 1986 and later sold the firm to Legg Mason teenage daughters, Margaret and Alexandra. Inc. He and Lynn divide their time between their Radnor residence and a home in Jackson, Wyoming. They are in the proTo round out our team, Sue Costello joined our staff on a cess of renovating the historic buildings on Garret Mill Farm, part-time basis last fall as GIS (Geographic Information one of which will be a future residence. Systems) Coordinator. Sue interned at the Trust last summer Dr. Tim Schaeffer, Executive as part of her studies at West Chester University and we never Director of Audubon Pennsylvania, let her leave! She is our in-house mapping expert, preparing and brings expertise in regional updating all maps and display graphics used for landowner conservation issues, many of meetings, conservation easement reports and public outreach efforts. With geography degrees from both West Chester particular relevance to the Trust program area. With Tim at the University and the University of Tennessee, Sue’s background helm, Audubon Pennsylvania is includes experience in university teaching, environmental committed to further protecting consulting and land protection. She lives in West Chester with the state’s Important Bird Areas her husband, Joe, and two young children, Jacob and Anna. (IBAs). Because our program area Last but surely not least on the staff front, we are thrilled is designated as an IBA, Tim has particular interest in our land to announce the arrival of baby Emily Claire Lambert on protection and land stewardship work. Tim and his staff are February 22, 2006. Trisha Lambert and husband Jim are working closely with Alex Van Alen to further protect and loving parenthood and we look forward to welcoming Trisha provide stewardship to the Upper Ridley/Crum IBA. back to the office after her leave in June. We are truly indebted Reflecting his interest in both science and policy, Tim purto a team of Trust volunteers and devotees who’ve helped us sued a dual program of a Ph.D. in Environmental Science at out during Trisha’s absence—so many thanks to Tara Off, the State University of New York College of Environmental Jodi Spragins and Eugenia Warnock! Science and Forestry and a law degree from Syracuse University. A resident of New Cumberland, Tim lives with his TRUSTEE NEWS wife Kristin and twin boys, Erik and Kurt. In January 2006, we also welcomed two new members to our Board of Trustees. Each brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will help us move the Trust’s mission forward.
Volunteer Gardeners Needed!
Later this spring, we will begin installing native plant gardens around our new office. We need knowledgeable volunteers to help with the planting and upkeep of the gardens—and welcome donations of native shrubs and trees! To get involved, please contact the Trust at 610-353-2562 ext. 18 or land@wctrust.org.
Tony Hitschler joined the community two years ago when he and his wife, Lynn, purchased and protected the old Menghetti farm on Garrett Mill Road. The Hitschlers were conservation buyers who had been looking for a country property for some time and fell in love with the streams, woodlands and historic structures on the farm. Since then, Tony
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Here we are at 925 Providence Road... 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.
Jeanne B. Van Alen President and Executive Director
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Peter S. Strawbridge Chairman Alice E. Hausmann Vice Chairman MARY HUNT DAVIS
Timothy B. Barnard, Esq. Vice President and Assistant Secretary James L. Van Alen II Treasurer Sigrid Berwind W. Anthony Hitschler William T. Howard F. Arthur McMorris, Ph.D. Jennifer C. Moller Arthur E. Newbold IV, Esq. Donna F. Oliver, Esq. Timothy D. Schaeffer, Ph.D. Richard A. Shorr Langhorne B. Smith Jeanne B. Van Alen Tana Wall
Come pay us a visit!
STAFF Elizabeth H. Block Director of Development and Public Relations Dee Ann Bowman Business Manager Sue R. Costello GIS Coordinator
Willistown Conservation Trust
Melissa K. Ingersoll Program Associate
925 Providence Road 路 Newtown Square, Pennsylvania 19073 (610) 353-2562 ~ Fax: (610) 325-0869 ~ www.wctrust.org
Patricia L. Lambert Fundraising and Volunteer Coordinator
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Christopher A. Thompson Director of Land Protection John G. Turgeon Associate Director of Land Protection
LAND AND EASEMENT STEWARDSHIP MANAGER Alexander S. Van Alen Willistown Conservation Trust is a nonprofit, taxexempt corporation under Section 501(c)3 of the I.R.S. Code. Donations are tax-deductible. A copy o f t h e o f fi c i a l r e g i s t r a t i o n a n d fi n a n c i a l i n fo r m a t i o n m ay b e o b t a i n e d f ro m t h e PA Department of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania, (800) 732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
THE SYCAMORE is printed on recycled paper.
NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID SOUTHEASTERN, PA PERMT NO. 96