Pocono Heritage Land Trust Preserving Natural Places and Open Spaces in Monroe County

from Pocono Living Magazine Dec 2021/Jan 2022

Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus

By Amanda Kuhn

This is Pocono Living Magazine’s sixth article in our conservation series.

The struggle between conservation and the commercialization of our natural landscape is a tale as old as time, a tale that’s not unique to the Poconos. The exploitation of our natural resources in the name of growth and financial gain dates back to the late 1700s and early 1800s when early settlers discovered how rich the area was with natural resources - timber, ice, wildlife and anthracite. Accelerated by railroads, the population grew, industries grew, and the need to conserve our precious natural resources grew as well.

Pocono Heritage Land Trust was founded in 1984 in an effort to protect our natural places and open spaces. Today, this locally-based organization remains “dedicated to protecting the natural heritage of our Pocono Mountains region. These areas include important lands, waters, natural places, open spaces and agricultural landscapes.” Overseen by a board of directors who live and work locally, PHLT is committed to the natural legacy of the Poconos.

“Today, this locally-based organization remains “dedicated to protecting the natural heritage of our Pocono Mountains region.”

“Resources like clean air and water, wildlife, and forestry benefit everyone including future generations.”

As described in PHLT’s blog, “balancing the need for both human-protected wild places and human-supported altered landscapes is summed up best in the Five ‘Cs’ — conversation, cooperation, compromise, compassion, and conservation.” PHLT’s position it to work cooperatively with landowners and the local government to preserve land that offers an environmental, scenic, or recreational value. Whether through donation, purchase, or conservation easements, PHLT acquires land and accepts the responsibility of the management and protection of that land. While our area demands places to live and work, this demand also increases the need to protect our natural resources. Resources like clean air and water, wildlife, and forestry benefit everyone including future generations.

PHLT encourages residents and visitors to get outdoors! The organization has many nature preserves through the area, each offering unique sights and opportunities. Their latest addition, the Rail Gap Pocono Creek Nature Preserve located in Stroudsburg, was acquired in 2020. This preserve includes some interesting landmarks like a path of the Wilkes-Barre & Eastern Railroad which ran between Wilkes-Barre and Stroudsburg from 1893 to the 1930s carrying passengers, coal and ice. Not only is the history interesting, the beautiful landscape is eye-catching as well. You can learn more about PHLT’s preserves, including directions and other pertinent information, on their website.

While maintaining the land they protect is a priority, engaging and educating residents is also a goal. Throughout the year PHLT hosts events to learn and have fun. Guest speakers, educational sessions like “Living with Black Bears” and “Introduction to Fly Fishing” are scheduled as well as opportunities to Paint and Sip or help with restoration projects. Follow PHLT on Facebook for all upcoming events and opportunities to enjoy.

If you enjoy spending time outdoors and share PHLT’s mission

Photo courtesy of Marlana Holsten

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of preserving our natural places and open spaces, consider becoming a volunteer. From managing invasive plants, leading walks, helping with office needs, photography, fundraising and more - volunteers are always needed and always greatly appreciated. You can learn more about the types of volunteer jobs available on the PHLT website.

To learn more about PHLT, upcoming events, and the organization’s nature preserves, check out their website at phlt. org. Sign up for the PHLT monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date on all initiatives, activities, and events. You can also find PHLT on social media.