Learn About the Delaware Highlands Conservancy

The Delaware River region contains 67,000 acres of valley, 40 miles of rivers, 100 miles of trails and 200 miles of breathtaking drives.  The Delaware Highlands Conservancy is an accredited land trust dedicated to conserving the quality of life in the upper Delaware River region.  In partnership with the region’s landowners and communities, the conservancy is committed to conserving the forests, farms, waters and other wildlife of the Delaware River region.  With the help of volunteers, the conservancy works to conserve the agriculture and forestlands that are key to local foods, clean drinking water, and biological diversity.  They also strive to maintain the beauty and quality of life of the region.  The Conservancy focuses their efforts in three main areas: Land Protection, Education and Events and Partnerships and Special Initiatives.  There are two main offices, one in Hawley, Pennsylvania and the other in Monticello, New York.

Volunteers are an important part of keeping this non-profit organization running smoothly and for the overall success of the conservancy’s mission to protect the Delaware River region.  From office work like filing and mailings to working with the Land Protection staff, there is a volunteer opportunity for everyone.  Volunteering is a fun and a great way to meet other people in the community.  To become a volunteer, fill out the Volunteer Registration form.

Upcoming events with the Highlands Conservancy include The Little Farm Show on November 2nd and Little Sparrow and the Eagles on November 9th.  The Little Farm Show will be from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and is a musical event all about the environment, farming and food.  Known as The Greatest Show on Dirt, the MacDonald Twins answer the question, where does your food come from?  Little Sparrow and the Eagles is a live presentation with music and live birds of prey.  Bill Streeter of the Delaware Valley Raptor Center will show off the beauty of hawks, falcons, owls and eagles.  Local band Little Sparrow will take the stage at 2:00pm.  A $5.00 donation is suggested and seating is limited.

This year, the Conservancy is celebrating their 20th anniversary.  To commemorate this special occasion, there will be a dinner and show on November 22nd from 5:00pm to 10:00pm.  Held at Bethel Woods, tickets will be $125 per person.  Dinner, cocktails and live music will be on hand to celebrate.  This is sure to be a fun event.

Doing their part to support the Delaware Highlands region, The Settlers Inn and sister property, Ledges Hotel, are part of the Delaware Highlands Green Lodging Program.  Each time a reservation is made; a $2.00 donation is automatically added to the bill and goes directly to the Conservancy.  Each donation ensures that the region is preserved and protected and a place guests choose to come back to year after year.  The Settlers Inn is set in the Lake Region of the Pocono Mountains.  The property is close to the Lackenwaxen River and within walking distance of the Riverwalk Trail.  Nature surrounds this 1920’s lodge and makes it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.  Twenty one spacious guest rooms await, each unique in their offerings and décor.  The Settlers Inn is ready to welcome you in and set the tone for a peaceful retreat.

Photo courtesy of Delaware Highlands Conservancy