Introducing Natural Lands Trust’s Newest Preserve…The Bear Creek Preserve

The Bear Creek Preserve, established in December 2006, is a 3,407-acre expanse of forest, valleys and streams in the Poconos’ Lehigh River Watershed. The preserve—larger than many state parks—becomes a major new wildlife refuge, protecting and enhancing native habitats and offering passive public recreation. Bear Creek adjoins another large tract of private, conserved land, forming a conservation area of more than 6,400 acres contiguous with the federally-owned Francis Walter Dam Reservation and other protected lands owned by the State. Bear Creek is the largest single land acquisition in Natural Lands Trust’s 53-year history.

The preserve is located in Bucks and Bear Creek Townships in Luzerne County, PA. A number of creeks run through the property, including Shades Creek, Stony Run, and Bear Creek, all of which are classified as “High Quality Cold Water Fisheries” by the PA Department of Environmental Protection. The property is home to a number of animal species considered rare in Luzerne County, including bobcat and river otter. There are also a wide variety of plant communities, with at least two species of special concern: few-seeded sedge and golden club. The vast interior forest and the open grasslands in the flood zone above the Francis Walter Dam create scenic views from public roads and the existing trails on the property.

Natural Lands Trust will be managing the preserve to protect water quality in the streams, maintain native habitats, and provide opportunities for low-impact public access. We plan to expand hiking trails and add interpretive signage and appropriate public parking. A management center and full-time preserve manager will ensure maintenance of both natural and recreational features. Bear Creek Preserve will also serve as a base of operations for future NLT land protection activities in the Pocono region.

The Bear Creek Preserve was acquired through the generosity of the previous landowner and funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.