RELEASE: DCNR Names Pittsburgh Green Space “Wild Plant Sanctuary”

*MARCH 7, 2017 UPDATE*

ALT will hold a designation ceremony & a plant identification hike with its Environmental Education Team experts on May 7, 2017 in honor of this distinction. To RSVP, check back on our website calendar and Eventbrite page as the date approaches.

McKeesport, PA – Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) designated Dead Man’s Hollow as part of the Wild Plant Sanctuary Program in January 2017.

The goal of the Wild Plant Sanctuary Program is to recognize some of the best examples of habitat supporting state‐listed species of concern. The property in question must function as an exceptional refuge for Pennsylvania’s natural heritage.

“We would like to commend (ALT’s) continued efforts to conserve native wild plants in Pennsylvania,” DCNR said in the designation letter.

Owned and managed by Allegheny Land Trust, the 450-acre Dead Man’s Hollow Conservation Area (DMH) sits along the Great Allegheny Passage in McKeesport boasts an abundant wildflower population and other natural wonders.

DMH is the largest privately-protected conservation area in Allegheny County and was once the site of a thriving industrial area. Time and nature have reclaimed the site, and visitors today can get close to nature as they trek over 6 miles of woodland trail, leading to vistas that tell of a rich history.

ALT is currently implementing a management plan to expand recreational opportunities at the conservation area while protecting the Hollow’s unique spaces and habitats.

For more information, contact Lindsay Dill at 412.741.2750 x206 or ldill@alleghenylandtrust.org.

Read more in coverage from WESA and the Tribune-Review.