Another successful initiative takes root
at Kestrel Hill Preserve
What can be done to protect beautiful but rapidly disappearing wilderness, vulnerable wildlife, and precious natural resources? Willistown Conservation Trust (WCT) offers a myriad of practical solutions.
For over 30 years, WCT’s expert staff, dedicated volunteers, and private landowners have worked strategically to conserve thousands of acres in southeastern Pennsylvania through a comprehensive program including carefully-curated conservation easements and public nature preserves.
Last year, WCT’s team mobilized quickly and implemented a plan to save a 220+/- acre farm that was listed for sale. First, WCT partnered with a concerned neighbor who purchased the property to pre-empt development. Next, permanent deed restrictions were placed on 130+/- acres, restricting future development. Finally, WCT entered into an agreement to acquire the remaining 90+/- acres and establish a new public nature preserve.
WCT’s fifth public nature preserve, Kestrel Hill Preserve is situated at the heart of over 7,500 conserved acres that extend across Chester and Delaware counties. The Preserve is named in honor of the American Kestrel, a small, colorful falcon that thrives in expansive grasslands. Kestrel populations are declining throughout North America due to habitat loss, but breeding kestrels near Kestrel Hill Preserve and at WCT’s nearby Kirkwood Preserve, indicating that our open space, habitat, and bird conservation programs are taking flight.
To date, an enthusiastic group of supporters have contributed $6.7 million towards the $12.5 million cost to acquire and open Kestrel Hill Preserve. Now, we need your help to: complete the acquisition, establish public access and parking; clear hiking and equestrian trails; restore agricultural fields and wetlands to native habitat; and support wildlife and the watershed that connects to our region’s water supply.
Instead of 40 new homes, idyllic Kestrel Hill Preserve will open soon for you to enjoy, with rolling hills including a 160’ elevation drop; lush meadows; mature woodlands; freshwater streams; miles of peaceful trails; 85 species (and counting!) of native and migrating birds, and an internationally-recognized “Important Bird Area.” The Preserve will operate 365 days a year, from dawn to dusk–and 24 hours a day for wildlife! – in perpetuity, no less!
Can we count on your help to secure this spectacular Preserve, build new homes for wildlife, and protect the critical watershed?
