Press release shared by French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust on 9 March 2026
French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust is delighted to announce the completion of a voluntary conservation easement to permanently preserve Hugh and Sally Willig’s 18-acre property along Sycamore Lane in Charlestown Township. The protection of this land adds to a growing mosaic of open space, habitat, and preserved properties that sustain healthy communities and protect the quality of life for the people of northern Chester County and downstream.
“This project is an exciting win for conservation in the region,” said Karl Russek, Conservation Director. “French & Pickering is delighted to help Hugh and Sally ensure the permanent protection of their property for future generations.”
This property sits within the high-quality Pickering Creek Watershed and features important wildlife habitat. The Willigs are accomplished naturalists who have stewarded their property to support the birds and other wildlife they have shared a home with for over 30 years.
“Preservation minded landowners like the Willigs are the cornerstone of conservation in Chester County,” noted Bill Gladden, Executive Director. “We are also grateful to the Charlestown Township Supervisors whose full support was critical to this project’s success.”
French & Pickering is grateful for the generosity of the Willig Family and their dedication to protecting land and water. The protection of this property is also another win for the longstanding partnership between French & Pickering and Charlestown Township.
About French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust
Land Preservation
Since its creation by Sam and Eleanor Morris in 1967, French & Pickering has worked with over 200 landowners to permanently protect more than 13,700 acres in northern Chester County through purchases, conservation easements and public/private partnerships. French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust works with landowners, townships, foundations and the state and county to purchase and monitor conservation easements, create parkland, and preserve environmentally sensitive land.
Public Access to Preserved Lands
Now more than ever, outside recreational opportunities are important to our mental and physical health. These French & Pickering properties are open to the public and contain miles of marked hiking trails and scenic views:
The Templin Woods Preserve in East Nantmeal Township is over 550 acres of woodland wildlife habitat. This valuable natural space is home to many species of birds and mammals and is an important source of clean water for the Great Marsh ecosystem.
The 108-acre Thomas P. Bentley Nature Preserve, located in East Nantmeal and Warwick Townships includes the ruins of the Warwick Iron Furnace, the Exceptional Value south branch of the French Creek, and is recognized as a “Birding Hot Spot” by the Valley Forge Audubon Society.
For more information contact Karl Russek, Conservation Director
484-949-5657 krussek@frenchandpickering.org
