Protecting Sideling Hill Creek's Conservation Heritage
The ecological significance of Sideling Hill Creek is explained by examining the location and quality of aquatic life in this watershed. Situated in the middle region of the Appalachian Mountains of Pennsylvania and Maryland, this stream is a direct tributary to the Potomac River. These are the main factors that influence the species and habitats of the watershed, and the remote nature of the region has historically dictated landuse patterns that have maintained natural features rather than destroying them.
Protecting rural livelihoods and land uses, like forestry and agriculture, is a focus of Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. We are building ties with private landowners and community leaders who share our vision of "working landscapes." These are the farms and forestlands -- that if protected -- can anchor our region's conservation heritage even deeper. Local communities who seek to beautify their neighborhoods or clean up a polluted stream are teaming up with WPC staff in rural towns and cities across western Pennsylvania. Together we are making plans, implementing projects and seeking out other partners and resources to protect our region's special places into the future.
Above, WPC's Tolif Hunt, project coordinater, Sideling Hill Creek and agricultural specialist, performs water monitoring at Sideling Hill Creek with the aid of local residents.