Rasler Run is a scenic mountain stream that flows into Indian Creek, a few miles upstream from the Youghiogheny River in Fayette County.

The tributary is also a high-quality coldwater fishery and one of Pennsylvania’s few Class A Wild Trout Streams, although access to fishing has been largely restricted due to the private ownership of land bordering the creek.

But now the Mountain Watershed Association owns 186 acres of that land, including a large portion designated as a Natural Heritage Area by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy for its exceptional ecological diversity.

“This isn’t just an exciting win for our local community, but for people across the Commonwealth,” said Taylor Robbins, conservation and recreation manager at Mountain Watershed Association. “Our vision for the property is to conserve areas with high ecological diversity while also welcoming the community for recreational activities such as fishing, hiking and primitive camping.”

MWA plans to conduct biological surveys, develop a management plan for the property, and prepare accessible recreational areas.

For more information on programs, initiatives, upcoming events and how you can get involved, visit the Mountain Watershed Association website.

[Posted: March 9, 2023]

3/13/2023