French And Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust Earns National Recognition

PHOENIXVILLE, PA – French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust (FPCCT) announced on Wednesday that it has achieved accreditation – a mark of honor in land conservation.

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded accreditation, signifying its confidence that FPCCT lands will be protected forever.

Accredited land trusts across the country have permanently conserved more than 15 million acres of farms, forests, recreational and natural areas that are vital to healthy, vibrant communities.

“Accreditation demonstrates French & Pickering’s commitment to permanent land conservation in northern Chester County,“ said Andrew Pitz, executive director of French & Pickering. “We’re a stronger organization for having gone through the rigorous accreditation program and this strength will help make our community an even better place for present and future generations.”

Recent FPCCT projects include the permanent protection of 553 acres in the Warwick Furnace area along the South Branch of the Exceptional Value French Creek, and the conveyance of The Nature Conservancy’s sensitive wetlands in the Great Marsh to FPCCT.

Since its establishment in 1967, French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust has protected thousands of acres in northern Chester County through purchases, conservation easements and public/private partnerships. It works with landowners, townships, foundations and the state and county to purchase and monitor conservation easements, create parkland and preserve environmentally sensitive land.

“Together, accredited land trusts stand united behind strong national standards ensuring the places people love will be conserved forever. In all, over 75 percent of private lands conserved by land trusts are now held by an accredited land trust,” said Tammara Van Ryn, executive director of the Commission.

Trails provide public access to preserved land, recreational opportunities and beautiful views along northern Chester County’s Exceptional Value waterways. With funding from the state, county and the George and Miriam Martin Foundation, French & Pickering is engaged in the acquisition and development of the 10-mile French Creek Trail from Warwick County Park to the Kennedy Covered Bridge in East Vincent Township, and creating local connections to the regional trail network. It has partnered with the Horse-Shoe Trail Conservancy to permanently protect segments of the historic 140 mile trail.

To learn more about the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, see here.

For informatio on the Land Trust Alliance, see here.