In September, Heritage Conservancy welcomed members, sponsors, and supporters to our Russell-Mandel Preserve for a Pollinator Picnic Garden Party. This special event was to celebrate the impact of our community’s generosity and offered a unique opportunity to experience, firsthand, the preservation, stewardship, and education efforts that define our mission.
As a living example of the conservation work made possible by our donors, the Russell-Mandel Preserve set the perfect stage to showcase how support directly translates into protected landscapes, thriving habitats and communities, and lasting environmental impact.
On a beautiful Saturday afternoon, guests enjoyed a picnic lunch, live music, games, and a chance to explore the scenic grounds of this historic Bucks County property. They also had the opportunity to connect with Heritage Conservancy staff and learn more about how their support fuels conservation and education efforts across the region.
A highlight of the afternoon was a guided tour of the preserve’s 5-acre pollinator meadow. While the loop trail is open to the public, this was a special opportunity for guests to explore it with expert guides who shared insights into the importance of pollinator habitats, the native plants that thrive there, and the wildlife they sustain.
The meadow provides essential shelter and nourishment for local pollinators and is an example of impactful work donor and volunteer support makes possible. In collaboration with local Eagle Scouts, Heritage Conservancy staff installed Chimney Swift nesting boxes on the property to help protect this declining bird species.
Guests toured the native plant nursery and the newly expanding demonstration garden near the main house. Volunteers are transforming the space by replacing ornamental non-native plantings with a diverse array of native species. (Interested in getting involved? Learn more about joining our volunteers here.)
Families and children were welcome, and Heritage Conservancy’s Environmental Educators engaged guests of all ages with hands-on learning activities. Their education table featured displays highlighting Heritage Conservancy’s work with local schools, including teacher trainings and after school environmental programs.
Using an EnviroScape model, educators demonstrated how pollution affects local watersheds and the role plantings play in protecting clean water. The EnviroScape is an engaging activity that Heritage Conservancy staff and educators use in our environmental science programs throughout Bucks County classrooms.
A memorable moment came when a Monarch butterfly emerged from its chrysalis during the event. Educators explained that Monarch butterflies hatch in multiple generations, but the final generation of the season is uniquely equipped to migrate thousands of miles south to Mexico. It was a small but fitting symbol on a day dedicated to celebrating nature, community, and lasting stewardship.
We are grateful to all of our supporters and were happy to celebrate the generosity that continues to fuel the preservation of local land, school programs that teach kids to care about and protect nature, and stewardship that protects natural resources and local wildlife.
All photos by Megan Close. Check out the full Garden Party Pollinator Picnic Program for more photos from a delightful afternoon outdoors.
Not a member? No need for FOMO! Join Heritage Conservancy now. Any gift of $50+ makes you a member for the year. Join the Pollinator Circle today.
