This week the Central Pennsylvania Conservancy, in partnership with PA CleanWays of Cumberland County, did a clean-up on land in and around Audubon Hawk Watch at Waggoner’s Gap for Earth Day.

Volunteers from all over the region picked up trash along Rt. 74 on both the Cumberland and Perry side of the ridge. In addition to beautifying this area on Earth Day, CPC is currently in the process of purchasing and permanently preserving a 106 acre stretch of undeveloped forested land at Waggoner’s Gap, on the south side of the Kittatinny Ridge, in Cumberland County.

This area is a globally important migration point for over 150 species of birds and hawks annually and serves as critical habitat for the Allegheny Woodrat, a Pennsylvania Species of Concern. It is a cherished spot for many in our community and is frequented by countless visitors for birding as well as thousands of area college students to study the geologic rock outcroppings that make our area unique.

This parcel is of critical significance because it serves as the link on the south side of the ridge between the Pennsylvania Audubon's Hawk Watch Area and the 3,000 acre Reineman Wildlife Sanctuary, creating a contiguous habitat corridor.

“I commend the Central Pennsylvania Conservancy and its partners for preserving such and important asset of our community” said Attorney John Broujos, chairperson of the CPC development committee to protect Waggoner's Gap. “This property has touched the lives of countless citizens who continue to visit the area to take in the breathtaking view, study the unique geology, and appreciate the diverse wildlife. Community support is critical to successfully protect this area for future generations.”

This parcel of land at Waggoner's Gap is one of the last undeveloped gaps on the Kittatinny Ridge. The Ridge is one of Pennsylvania’s most prominent natural features that serves as a critical flyway for thousands of hawks, eagles, and millions of songbirds. Areas like Waggoner’s Gap provide crucial food, shelter, and resting space for these species.

The 185-mile Ridge has been officially designated by the Audubon Society as the state's largest and highest priority “Important Bird Area,” and is a vital component of the “green” infrastructure of Pennsylvania. CPC's acquisition of this property represents a multi-organizational initiative to pursue a larger conservation landscape vision that may extend to other lands along the ridge.

It is CPC's intent to manage the property until it is conveyed to the Pennsylvania Audubon Society for permanent stewardship. Prior to conveyance, CPC will place an easement on the tract to ensure its protection and public accessibility.

The purchase of the property will require the Central Pennsylvania Conservancy to raise a minimum of $440,000 from public and private sources. This total includes the purchase of the land as well as the funds required to buy, protect, convey, and open the property to the public.

The Partnership to Protect Waggoner's Gap Development Committee has been formed to address the needs concerning this property acquisition. Attorney John Broujos, former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and retired USMCR Colonel, is leading the committee.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has led the partnership efforts with a pledge of $190,000 in matching grant funds. To match this grant, Cumberland County has granted $50,000 towards the purchase of this property and the Kline and Degenstein Foundations have contributed $25,000 and $10,000 respectively. Dickinson College and the Blue Mountain Chapter of Safari Club International have each contributed $10,000. The Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation has donated $2,000 towards this effort. In addition, the Appalachian Audubon Society has raised $10,400 through a membership match challenge with all proceeds going towards the protection of this critical area.

For more information contact the Central Pennsylvania Conservancy at 717-233-0221 or send email to: info@centralpaconservancy.org .

4/25/2008