NATURAL LANDS . FALL / WINTER 2020 17 ace
transferring the property to the adjacent Nockamixon State Park , Natural Lands ensured it will never be developed . Its preservation also protects a Pennsylvania plant “ of special concern ,” a designation given to species that are not yet endangered or threatened , but that are particularly vulnerable .
The property is within the Schuylkill Highlands , a region at the nexus of two important landscapes : the federally designated Highlands and the Schuylkill River Watershed . The 5,300-acre Nockamixon State Park draws thousands of visitors every year to its hiking and biking trails , diversity of birds and other wildlife , and large lake used for boating , paddle-boarding , and fishing .
“ Over the past few months , as the coronavirus turned things upside down , we ’ ve watched people flock to the outdoors for exercise , relaxation , and comfort ,” said Oliver Bass , president of Natural Lands . “ It ’ s extremely rewarding for Natural Lands to play a part in adding open space to Nockamixon State Park that everyone can enjoy .”
76
MD
Reading
1
78
Coatesville
Elkton
5 4
Pottstown
Wilmington
95
DE
PA
6
West Chester
Allentown
476
Norristown
7
Media
Chester
476
Easton
Quakertown
8
New
295
NJ
2
3
Doylestown
Jersey Turnpike
55
276
PHILADELPHIA
Camden
Glassboro
3 Moyer Property 9.6 acres Haycock Township
Key Partners : Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks ; U . S . Fish and Wildlife Service ’ s Highlands Conservation Act
Just like the Bartasek property , the 9.6-acre Moyer property was a purchase-and-transfer to Nockamixon State Park , which it abuts .
“ We decided that preserving this lovely wooded property was the best possible use of this land ,” said David Moyer , former owner of this recently transferred property . “ We are thrilled at this very positive outcome and hope the people of Bucks County and all visitors to the park will be able to enjoy this parcel of woodland in its natural , undeveloped state .”
“ I ’ m pleased to see these forested acres added to Nockamixon State Park . This acquisition , coupled with
Bartasek Property
Greg Snyder , map : Holly Harper