Florence Shelly Wetlands Preserve Pennsylvania 171, Thompson, PA 18465

The Florence Shelly Wetlands Preserve in Thompson, Pennsylvania, is a beautiful park dedicated to the conservation of nature. It features fields, woodlands, streams, and a glacial pond surrounded by a floating bog. Visitors can explore the preserve via an easy-access boardwalk that winds through a hemlock forest to a lookout over the marsh. The preserve's stewardship committee organizes walks and volunteer events from May to October, although activities are currently paused due to COVID-19.

The dedicated volunteers of the Florence Shelly Wetlands Preserve Stewardship Committee actively care for the diverse habitats and species found in the preserve. Regular meetings and collaborations with TNC staff ensure that the area is well-maintained and monitored. Bird enthusiasts can join guided walks led by volunteer Evan Mann, who shares his knowledge of local species like the northern waterthrush and white-throated sparrow.

The preserve is also home to the blackpoll warbler, known for its impressive overwater flights and changing appearance throughout the seasons. Visitors can contribute to a science database by recording observations of various species found in the preserve, helping to inform conservation efforts and management decisions.

Owned by The Nature Conservancy, the Florence Shelly Wetlands Preserve is one of nearly 1,500 preserves covering over 2.5 million acres across the United States. These lands serve as vital habitats for wildlife, support scientific research, and provide opportunities for people to connect with nature. Explore this unique preserve and contribute to the ongoing conservation efforts in Pennsylvania and Delaware.