Pennsylvania is home to an amazing array of bird diversity. As of 2024, over 430 species of birds have been reported from the Keystone state – a fair portion of which are consistently encountered. Of those species, there are a handful who elicit a great deal of appreciation from outdoor enthusiasts. Some, like the Long-eared […]
Meet our CEO: Bill Kunze, an Environmental Leader in Pennsylvania
“We are nurturing the past, present, and future of our community,” says William (Bill) Kunze, CEO at Heritage Conservancy. “When we imagine what kind of world we want to live in, many of the features people would identify as being important in their communities are things the work of Heritage Conservancy will help ensure.” Bill […]
Nature in 100 Words or Less: Our Micro-Writing Contest Winners
The Community Outreach team at Heritage Conservancy recently challenged writers of all ages from Lower Bucks County to capture nature in 100 words or less. We received over 70 entries, compelling narratives, evocative poems, and thought-provoking prose that impressed our judges. We had so many entries, it was hard to choose just one from each […]
To Plant or to Protect? A Cost-Effective Alternative to Planting Trees
They say the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, and the next best time is today. There are many good reasons to plant a tree. At Heritage Conservancy, we are primarily concerned with forest regeneration along streams, hard and soft mast production for wildlife, and trees and shrubs that support the […]
A Very Brief History of Southeastern PA’s Geology
4.6 billion years is a long story to tell within a human lifetime, let alone a single article, yet here I am trying to sum up PA’s place – southeastern PA in particular – in Earth’s history in roughly 2,000 words. Why? Because I’ve found that understanding our place in the world of rocks builds […]
The Thomas Ellicott House
Heritage Conservancy has recognized nearly 700 local properties in Bucks and Montgomery Counties, adding them to its Register of Historic Places. Among its newest “inductees” is the Thomas Ellicott House on Aquetong Road in Carversville, Solebury Township. The home is a notable, well-preserved example of vernacular architecture. This historic stone home has also been associated […]
Guests Celebrate ‘The Waltz of the Snowflakes’ at Heritage Conservancy’s Annual Christmas at Aldie Celebration
On the first Sunday of December, in the shadow of our 16-foot-tall Christmas tree, over 150 people joined us for our 35th annual Christmas at Aldie celebration. It was a magical night of carols, cocktails, and convivial company, celebrating and supporting the mission of Heritage Conservancy in high style. Adorned with gilded hallways and sparkling […]
Cheers to 35 Years: Chris Chandor’s Impact on Heritage Conservancy’s Work and Mission
From procedural improvements for the Board to his critical assistance in the saving of Aldie Mansion, Chris Chandor has contributed much to Heritage Conservancy in the last three and a half decades. He just celebrated his 35th year serving on our Board of Directors, and his skills, energy, and time have helped shape the organization […]
Make Your Own Christmas Bird Suet: The Perfect Last-Minute Gift or Family Craft
Looking for a last-minute Christmas gift or school break activity that benefits wildlife? Consider making some holiday-themed bird suet. It is an easy, cheap, and fun way to attract birds to your yard this winter. Birds frequent feeders throughout the year, but visit them more during the winter months when other food resources are scarce. […]
In Praise of Snow and its Vital Role in Wildlife Habitat
Snow isn’t a welcome sight for many. It can obstruct travel plans, often requires shoveling, and creates giant, seemingly everlasting snow mountains that we have to circumvent in parking lots. Yet the services that snow provides, particularly to plants, wildlife, and the people who appreciate them, make all of those gripes seem a bit superficial. […]