Overview
Bradford Woods Reserve is a mostly-wooded, publicly-accessible conservation easement with a small system of waterways that flow into Pine Creek. In addition to the creek system, there is a small pond on the property that is stocked by a local volunteer to allow for recreational fishing. There are trails and a beautiful wooden footbridge that highlight the green space’s beauty. Hiking, biking, bird-watching, and running are popular activities among other outdoor activities.
This conservation easement is owned and managed by the Bradford Woods Borough, which maintains the green space via a volunteer community group called the Bradford Woods Conservancy. The Conservancy protects the natural area and manages land and water resources.
To inquire about becoming a member of the conservancy, or to make a charitable donation, please contact Ward Allebach, President, at allebach@nauticome.net.
Background
In August 2010, Allegheny Land Trust secured a conservation easement on this 4.5-acre parcel of land in cooperation with the Bradford Woods Borough; the parcel is located south of Bradford Road and north of Harding Road. A conservation easement transfers development rights from the landowner to ALT, guaranteeing that it will remain green space forever.
From the early 1920’s until 1981, this land was home to a greenhouse and horticultural center. While there are no longer any physical remnants, there are still some signs of its existence. There is a Scotch Pine forest on the property that was initially planted for Christmas trees, which has since grown into a very dense forest. Efforts have recently been made to safely remove some of these trees to make room for a native hardwood forest to grow.
Open to the public, this small green space offers a slice of nature in an otherwise suburban landscape.
Bradford Woods Conservancy
Bradford Woods Conservancy promotes and maintains the natural beauty of the community. It is a fund of Allegheny Land Trust.
The Bradford Woods Conservancy has mixed in many new faces on the Board over the past few years to complement our long-standing members. The experience of the long-standing members and the optimism and fresh perspectives of new members have combined to ensure a bright future for Bradford Woods.