This achievement has been years in the making, and it is the result of a powerful collaboration with our community of generous supporters and our public partners at the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Chester County, and Willistown Township. Together, we have raised nearly $9 million to acquire this land and prepare it for all to enjoy.
Why This Land Matters
Kestrel Hill Preserve protects a mosaic of habitats: grassland meadows, mature oak-hickory forests, wetlands, and two headwater tributaries of Ridley Creek, a vital regional watershed. These ecosystems provide food, water, and shelter for a wide variety of species.
Among them is the American Kestrel, the smallest falcon in North America and the namesake of our new Preserve, whose populations have been in steep decline across North America. To date, our bird conservation team and dedicated volunteers have documented more than 85 species of native and migratory birds at this future Preserve. The Audubon Society has recognized the area as part of an Important Bird Area, underscoring its ecological value for wildlife.
Preparing a Preserve
Almost as soon as WCT secured the land, our stewardship team and volunteers got to work. Last summer, thanks to a generous donor, WCT acquired a much-needed tractor and began restoring more than 25 acres of former agricultural fields to native meadows. We planted four species of grasses and 25 varieties of wildflowers, setting the stage for pollinators, songbirds, and raptors to flourish.
Former agricultural fields before Native Meadow Restoration (2023).
After agricultural fields were converted to native meadow (2024).
Looking Ahead
In the months ahead, we will continue restoration work, expand trail systems, and prepare to welcome visitors. Here you’ll find trails to wander, birds and wildlife to discover, moments of learning for the curious, and plenty of space to simply rest and reconnect with nature.
A Community Achievement
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has played a role in making Kestrel Hill Preserve possible. This is conservation at its best: neighbors, concerned citizens, and elected representatives uniting around a shared vision.
Together, we have turned the possibility of development into a guarantee of open space. Together, we have created a nature sanctuary for wildlife and people alike.
And together, we are ensuring that this landscape will remain protected, not just for today, but forever, for all who follow in our footsteps.
