Preservation of the Kimberly Run Natural Area 

 

Somerset County Conservancy’s work involves our “green preservation” projects. The Kimberly Run Natural Area, located on the southeast corner of the intersection of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and U.S. Route 219, is our premier project. Covering 373 acres with habitats ranging from warm season grass fields and older growth hemlock woods to many types of wetlands, including a bog, this property is a gem in the center of the county. We have partnered with DCNR, PA Game Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Pheasants Forever, Allegheny Plateau Audubon and others in developing habitat and a management plan for this property.

With the help of our corporate sponsors Somerset Trust Co., Concurrent Technology Corp., Reliant Energy and local businesses such as Olde Time Builders, Berlin Lumber Co. and Somerset REC, as well as many private individuals. The Conservancy has acquired an adjacent property that has enabled us to develop a public access, parking area and trail system. The 3.3 miles of trails are blazed with either blue or white trail markers, and loop back to their starting point. All intersections of the trail have maps and directions posted.

The Trails at KRNA

The trail system has been dedicated in the memory of Elizabeth Piersol.

Trail Maps

 

The Conservancy is also able to hold Conservation Easements for landowners who wish to preserve their lands. Development rights can be donated, and often a tax deduction taken if certain conservation requirements are met. The landowner and heirs can continue to own the property, estate planning can be facilitated, and natural lands can be permanently protected from development.