WeConservePA’s Post

Our "Plant This, Not That" series aims to help you find a native plant instead of an invasive species for your yard. These plants often provide the same look and texture, similar features, and growing habits, all while providing critical habitat for native wildlife. Help improve native plant supply by asking for native plant species! Garden mums or florist mums, are often purchased at garden centers this time of year for a pop of fall color. While garden mums aren't necessarily invasive or problematic in most areas, they also do not provide much value to wildlife either. Many of the flowers don't provide nectar or pollen, and they do not offer benefit as a host plant to native insects or wildlife. Also, most are not hardy and need to be replanted year after year, which is not only a waste of money, its a waste of resources. Planting perennial native Asters can provide a solution to all of these issues! Also, there are a huge variety to choose from, and bound to be one available at your local nursery. The most common you may find across the Eastern United States is probably the New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae), but there are many to choose from. Many are also host to butterfly or moth caterpillars and will provide interest in the garden all year round! For more information about Garden Mums: https://lnkd.in/easG5YQx or Native Asters: https://lnkd.in/eFDFK3Ka While these plants may not be in your area, send us a message if you would like suggestions for your region. To learn more about eradication of invasive species on your property, improvement of your habitat with native plants, or other habitat management questions, reach out to us at info@nalt.org and www.nalt.org. #invasivespecies #grownative #nativeplants #grownativeplants #nature #brp #naturelovers #outdoors #eradicateinvasives #plantthisnotthat #habitatmanagement #restoration #landconservation #conservation #privatelands #landconservation #northamericanlandtrust

So, what goes into opening a nature preserve? 🌎 We told you last week about how we make trails, which is one of the first steps, but there's more: 💚 A community of support! In order for nature preserves, local parks, and trails to significantly contribute to our quality of life, we look to our giving community to keep conservation alive -- today, tomorrow, and always. THANK YOU! 💚 All of our staff have a hand in the process. Our Conservation team works on acquisition, maps, trails, and accessibility. The Development team creates brochures, websites, and giving opportunities to maintain our preserves. And, our Education team connects people to nature by guiding the experience. 💚 Our volunteers help us build and maintain our trails- like the Promise Trail, a nod to @wearepnlv's volunteer corps' time and talent that they generously shared with us at our newest nature preserve (Stay tuned for great news later this month!) Next time you get out here with us, keep in mind that connections to nature are a product of our shared passion! 🌳⛰ 📸: Rachel Butler at our 📍 South Mountain Preserve in Emmaus, Pennsylvania

Hurricane Helene has caused unprecedented destruction to the southern Appalachian Trail and surrounding communities. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is prioritizing the safety of staff, volunteers, and local partners while coordinating support for affected areas. Efforts to assess and repair the Trail will begin once critical infrastructure is restored. We understand that many members of the A.T. family are eager for updates on Trail conditions and ways to help with recovery efforts. Please read our latest news release for the most up-to-date information. We will continue to share updates as they become available. Thank you to the A.T. family for your support during this extremely challenging time. We also extend our deepest thanks to the first responders, local organizations, and countless individuals working tirelessly to protect and support those impacted by this storm. Read the latest: https://lnkd.in/e4i_jDrA