S.K. Rockwell Conservancy Invests $3 Million in Pennsylvania Public Lands

The S.K. Rockwell Conservancy, Ducks Unlimited (DU) and the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) are working together to enhance 140 acres across 26 priority wetland impoundments at State Game Lands (SGL) 277, part of the Northwest Regional Wildlife Management Unit that spans 1,070 acres in western Pennsylvania.

The S.K. Rockwell Conservancy, founded by Steven Kent Rockwell, supports the rehabilitation, preservation and maintenance of the world's most precious natural environments. In addition to assisting in the enhancement of damaged natural properties and rehabilitating wilderness environments, the S.K. Rockwell Conservancy prioritizes community, education and innovation.

"Pennsylvania's forests, wetlands and wildlife sanctuaries are disappearing, so we all need to work together to preserve and maintain the health and beauty of our State Game Lands," said Kent Rockwell. "The S.K. Rockwell Conservancy works with partners to find solutions to problems that exist within our natural resources and wildlife areas. It is imperative that we revitalize and preserve our natural environment."

The S.K. Rockwell Conservancy generously donated $3 million to the substantial restoration project at SGL 277, which will also leverage Pittman-Robertson Act funds to repair and replace failing and dilapidated water-control structures. Planned improvements will enable effective habitat management capabilities so that Pennsylvania Game Commission wetland managers can conduct drawdowns and manage vegetation. This will help to maintain species diversity, promote natural ecological processes, improve water quality, mitigate flooding and support native plant communities that provide sustenance for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife.

“The Pennsylvania Game Commission is proud to partner with Ducks Unlimited on wetland habitat projects across the state. This partnership is restoring and enhancing thousands of acres of critical wetland habitats, which are essential for migrating waterfowl and a variety of other wildlife. We thank the S.K. Rockwell Conservancy for their generous contribution to this effort,” said Timothy Haydt, director of the Bureau of Wildlife Habitat Management of the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

SGL 277 is primarily managed for waterfowl, but deer, sora, marsh wren, beaver and woodcock are also found on the property. The site features several wetlands to fish for trout, bass, and other species. French Creek, renowned for its ecological significance, is considered one of the most important streams of its size in the northeastern U.S. The area is recognized for its conservation value due to its prevalence of high-quality habitats that contain species of special concern, exemplary native communities, and exceptional biodiversity. SGL 277 also offers trails for hiking, birdwatching, fishing and hunting.

"Having the proper infrastructure in place enhances wetland management capability, which means more habitat for ducks, geese, and other wetland-dependent birds and improved recreational experiences for the public," said DU Regional Biologist Lisa Clark. "The ability to manipulate water levels and facilitate conditions that mimic natural wet-dry cycles creates a significant opportunity to provide vital resources on the landscape to assist migratory birds in meeting necessary energetic requirements throughout migration, winter, and breeding periods. The commitment of the S.K. Rockwell Conservancy to our work at SGL 277 will advance infrastructure improvements, greatly enhancing habitat conditions at this critically important site for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. This investment will help us access significant public funding, leading to a positive conservation impact across western Pennsylvania for years to come."