The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is offering a comprehensive workshop for landowners and WPC conservation partners entitled, “Understanding Land Preservation and Conservation Easements,” at two locations.

Attendees will learn about the critical role of conservation easements in permanently protecting land. They also will learn how easements are developed and held, and how to work with a land trust to protect the conservation value of their property.

“Land preservation and conservation easements are topics many people have heard about, but have had little opportunity to learn about. This workshop offers the opportunity to learn about these topics and ask questions about how they are applicable in specific situations,” said Nick Pinizzotto, Senior Director, Freshwater Conservation.

The workshops, which will be led by WPC staff experts in water and land conservation, are planned for: April 22 at the Mercer County Penn State Cooperative Extension office, 463 North Perry Hwy, Mercer, PA 16137 (just north of Mercer on Route 19); and April 29 in Indiana County at the Rustic Lodge in Indiana, at 2199 Oakland Ave, Indiana, PA 15701.

Registration for both dates opens at 6:30 p.m. with the workshops starting at 7 p.m. and ending by 8:30 p.m.

All landowners seeking a means to protect their land, as well as WPC partners whose conservation objectives include protecting and restoring the environment, are encouraged to attend. The workshops are free and open to the public; however, space is limited. All attendees will receive preservation literature, and have the opportunity to speak directly with the presenters.

Funding for this event was provided by the Department of Environmental Protection and the Growing Greener Grant Program.

If possible, please RSVP at least one week prior to the event date to Mike Holiday at 724-459-0953 x 110 or send email to: mholiday@paconserve.org .

3/21/2008