The Land Conservancy of Adams County celebrates 30 years
At the beginning of a new year, we often stop, look back at the year that just ended, take stock, and then look to the year ahead and beyond. This is especially true when the year marks a significant milestone. This year, the Land Conservancy of Adams County (LCAC) will be celebrating 30 years since its official designation as a 501(c)(3) organization in September 1995. The organization did not simply spring to life fully formed that year. It took the spark of an idea, a landowner who wanted to donate an easement on his property, and a group of dedicated individuals gathering in 1994 who put that idea into action.
Since its inception, landowners, supporters, government and non-profit partners have provided the Land Conservancy the inspiration and ability to preserve over 13,500 acres in a landscape that has shaped our past and continues to create our future. That is certainly something to celebrate, but it is not nearly enough!
As we look ahead to the next 30 years, saving forests, farms, grasslands, and wetlands that give Adams County its distinctive sense of place and benefit those who live or visit here is more important than ever. The county’s historic and scenic vistas attract residents and visitors alike. Agricultural lands and the family farms they support represent an essential part of our economy. Open spaces and woodlands provide habitat for an abundance of wildlife and an array of recreational opportunities. Forest and meadows clean our air and refresh our water supply. We may be tempted to take these riches for granted, but once these invaluable landscapes disappear, they are gone forever.
All too often conservation is perceived as an effort to save only the most scenic places, or it is seen as a luxury for some rather than a necessity for all in a community to thrive. Conservation must be connected to its place and relevant to the times. The future of our county’s natural lands depends on the decisions we make and actions we take today.
That’s why, to guide our work for the future, we must continue to ask important questions. How can we work to ensure our region’s fertile farmland and forests thrive while supporting new development in those places best suited for it? Where can we focus protection of wildlands and woodlands on a scale that will not only give wildlife adequate habitat now, but will also allow species to adapt to a shifting climate? Where can we help to preserve land, so that all in our communities can enjoy the health benefits that natural spaces provide? How can conserving farmland not only preserve our rural heritage, but also support sustainable agriculture now and into the future? How can we motivate more people to care about land?
Land conservation increases quality of life in so many ways! From providing clean water and air, abundant trees and wildlife to supporting outdoor recreation, local food, and the arts, conserved and protected lands make Adams County a special place to live, work, and play. We are especially fortunate in Adams County to not only enjoy the benefits of land preserved by LCAC, but also those protected the Adams County Agricultural Land Preservation Program (25,000 acres), the Gettysburg National Military Park (6,700 acres), and Pennsylvania’s Michaux State Forest (26,000 acres).
This year, we invite you to challenge yourself to do some or all of these activities to celebrate 30 years of local land conservation. Visit farm markets and purchase locally grown products. Surely you’ve been to McDannell’s, Boyer’s, Sandoe’s, Hollabaugh Bros., or the Round Barn. Have you tried the Farmstead Butcher or King’s Farmstead and Market on Baltimore Pike between Gettysburg and Littlestown? Bike or drive to a scenic vista: Town Hill Road outside of York Springs provides stunning views going either direction!
Paddle on Long Pine Run Reservoir in Michaux or fish on the Conewago Creek near Route 34 (catch and release fly fishing only!) Hike one of the many trails in Michaux State Forest or our trail at Boyer Nurseries. Experience history by taking a tour or exploring the battlefield by foot, bike, or car. Paint, draw, photograph or simply renew your spirit almost anywhere in the county.
And, if you’re not acquainted, get to know the LCAC. Check out our website: PreserveAdams.org, like our FB page, or follow us on Instagram. Attend one of our annual events. Join us or gift a membership to someone in your life.
Kelly Alsedek serves on the Land Conservancy board of directors.
