Q: What is the Westmoreland Conservancy?

A: The Westmoreland Conservancy is a non-profit land trust located in Murrysville, Pennsylvania; about 20 miles east of Pittsburgh in Westmoreland County. The organization was founded in 1991, and has always been run by community volunteers. The purpose of the Westmoreland Conservancy is to acquire and preserve rural and rustic land for the public good. The Westmoreland Conservancy has preserved 273 acres of land in the Murrysville area. Hiking trails are provided on most of the Conservancy's nature reserves for the enjoyment of the public. The Westmoreland Conservancy also participates in educational outreach activities, the most recognized of which is a popular exhibit at the annual Community Day.

Q: Why does the Westmoreland Conservancy need my help?

At our present growth rate, it's easy to see that, unless action is taken now, the natural spaces we all take for granted will become a thing of the past. At the Conservancy we believe in taking action by:

• Purchasing and accepting gifts of land.
• Keeping the public informed on conservation issues within our community.
• Sponsoring community and school activities with environmental themes.
• Providing the public with educational opportunities to explore conservation issues and increase knowledge of our local environment.

These activities are made possible only through the financial support of members, volunteer assistance, foundation funding, matching grants, and the commitment of the community.

Q: There are many organizations competing for my time and money. Why should I contribute to the Westmoreland Conservancy?

A: Your tax-deductible contribution to the Conservancy goes directly back into your community. The preserved public lands will benefit everyone by:

• protecting wildlife
• conserving soil and water by providing erosion and run-off control
• providing educational opportunities for local schools
• providing recreational opportunities
• reducing noise and pollution
• reducing congestion
• enhancing property values

Q: What are the Westmoreland Conservancy's short term objectives?

A: We maintain and keep this land open to the public. This includes activities like forging and maintaining access trails for the enjoyment by the public. We also try to rid the reserves of invasive plant species- this is ongoing and labor intensive. The Conservancy recognizes that invasive plants are a real threat to biodiversity across Pennsylvania and the country and is working to combat that threat.

Another objective is to connect green spaces in order to provide for wildlife corridors. Continuous tracts of undisturbed woodland also benefits biodiversity, wildlife habitat, scenic beauty and walking trail opportunities.

The Westmoreland Conservancy is therefore looking for opportunities to acquire additional lands which advance our conservation objectives. If you have land yourself, or know of someone who is interested in contributing land, we will be happy to discuss any help we may be able to offer you in your quest to confer your gift today and as a legacy for future generations to enjoy - perhaps we can make it our next major project. Our land is a valuable commodity which cannot be replaced, that which we ought to preserve for the next generation.

Q: How can I help?

A: You can help in a number of ways:

1. Contribute your time. Members with fresh ideas are our most precious commodity.
2. Become a member. Show your support by joining the Conservancy.
3. Contribute money or services. Your financial contribution will go towards maintaining the community we all cherish.

A copy of the official registration of the Westmoreland Conservancy may be obtained from the PA Dept. of State by calling toll free, within PA, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

Many mature communities failed to plan for open spaces during their growth. These communities are now over-developed, congested and have high taxes. The Pittsburgh area abounds with examples of such communities - perhaps you moved from one yourself. Your investment in Murrysville's desirable rural character is very real. When planning your annual home maintenance budget, it makes financial good sense to spend some money on neighborhood and community maintenance.