TOP 30 Woodland conservation in West Chester, Pennsylvania

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Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 454 North Creek Road in West Chester, Pennsylvania, United States. This unique preserve is a mix of grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands that provides a perfect balance between human needs and nature conservation. The 332-acre preserve was established in 1990 by Dr. Morris Stroud, who bequeathed his Georgia Farm to Natural Lands. Since then, the preserve has expanded through donations and purchases of neighboring properties. The history of Stroud Preserve dates back to the founding of the colony, with the stone farmhouse built in 1740 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The preserve also serves as a long-term study site for the Stroud Water Research Center, conducting groundbreaking research on streams and rivers. Scientists from the Center have set up experiments to evaluate the impact of riparian forest buffers on water quality.

Okehocking Preserve, located in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, is a 180-acre park with meadows, wetlands, woodlands, and over 7 miles of natural surface trails for passive recreation. Owned by Willistown Township and protected by a conservation easement held by Willistown Conservation Trust, the preserve is a sanctuary for wildlife and a place of historical significance as the first Native American land grant in the American colonies. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems, bird watch in the Important Bird Area #72, and participate in trail workshops and programs offered by Penn Trails. The Okehocking Nature Center, which once operated in the preserve, has left a legacy of environmental education initiatives, including a self-guided tour. Parking is available at two locations on Delchester Road and West Chester Pike, and the park is open from dawn to dusk for all to enjoy the beauty of nature and the rich history of the land.