Nature is amazingly resilient. Capable of adapting and responding to constantly changing environmental conditions, natural systems that are not encumbered by damaging human interventions are inherently durable, adaptable, and sustainable. But nature's resiliency is not unlimited. There is scientifically documented, troubling evidence that misdirected human activities are impoverishing ecosystems around the world.

Because the works of humankind must co-exist with nature, addressing the nexus between humans and nature is central to the purpose of Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. In fact, our focus on connecting people to the natural world makes us rather unique among the broad spectrum of conservation and environmental organizations.

We firmly believe that local people taking direct action within their communities is vital to conserving our priceless natural resources. Waters and lands will never recover, nor will our towns and cities be revitalized unless a responsible citizenry takes ownership and moves to protect land and to eliminate a multitude of water pollution sources. Only the actions of an energized populace can protect remaining areas of ecological importance and keep wild lands wild and clean waters clean.

By activating and connecting with everyone who cares, by working side-by-side with individuals and local organizations who need our help in solving problems or protecting important lands, real-world solutions will be found in the crucible of actual experiences as we work together to tackle problems.

Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is committed to halting the draining and depleting of our natural resources and undoing the activities that destroy ecosystems while we take steps to protect the best habitats through land conservation. We think that reconnecting people to natural communities is the key to reversing this alarming trend.

• Through Fallingwater, we connect people to nature by showing how architecture can exist in harmony with nature, and by showing that a well-loved, heavily visited site can thrive along side an exceptional value stream in a recovering forest ecosystem.
• We connect communities—volunteer adults and children—to nature by planting urban gardens and creating green spaces. Through gardening with volunteers, we foster engaged human communities and provide an opportunity for children to plant flowers and beautify neighborhood places.
• We connect people to nature through ecological science, watershed restoration and land conservation projects. Working through hundreds of local groups and organizations, we empower local decision-makers to make good land-use choices; we assist local watershed groups restore degraded waters.