Press release by Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy posted 5 January 2026

The Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) recently accepted the donation of a conservation easement from Robin Read and John Bierley. Located near Hughesville, the 116-acre property features a scenic blend of forest, open fields, and sweeping views that reflect the land’s natural balance and beauty.

Read and Bierley purchased the property in 1997, drawn immediately to its open spaces and expansive view of the West Branch Susquehanna Valley. Over time, their connection deepened, not just to the landscape itself, but also to the responsibility of caring for it intentionally.

John Bierley and Robin Read donated a 116-acre conservation easement to the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC). Photo credit Holly Byers

A Seed Planted Long Ago

The idea of conserving the land took root years before the conservation easement was finalized. More than two decades ago, Read attended an event where she met NPC’s Executive Director, Renee’ Carey. That conversation left a lasting impression, planting the idea of land conservation in her head and her heart.

Read and Bierley’s respect for the land and the wildlife that share it is evident throughout the property. Walking the land reveals a mix of hardwoods and softwoods, wildlife tracks zigzagging through the woods and fields, and a thoughtfully tended pollinator meadow providing year-round food and habitat. A pond nestled on the property serves as a reliable watering hole for wildlife and unnamed tributaries wind through the valley below the woods, flowing onward to Muncy Creek and the West Branch Susquehanna River. These features all work together to benefit the wildlife, downstream waters, and broader community.

The streams, woods and fields on the conservation easement provide habitat for a variety of wildlife. Photo credit Holly Byers

A Thoughtful, Deliberate Process

For Read and Bierley, the choice to conserve the land was also shaped by a powerful example close to home. After a neighboring landowner passed away, his property was subdivided for development. This outcome reinforced their desire to act intentionally. Read did not want to have any regrets, sharing, “Conserving the land was something I’ve wanted to do for a while now. I’d often think while packing for a trip, ‘what happens to our land if something happens to us?’ Now I know our land is conserved. It’s a relief. I’ll be more at ease when planning our next vacation.”

When reflecting on her experience working with NPC, Read added that, “It was not a difficult process, but it was a long one. There was a lot to consider, but now that it’s done I feel at peace and grateful.”

This conservation easement represents Read and Bierley’s thoughtful commitment to the land and the community around it. With the continued support of NPC members and donors, NPC is able to work alongside landowners to shape a lasting future for the lands, waters, and wildlife that define Northcentral Pennsylvania.

The conservation easement, affectionately named Quiet Spirit by the couple, overlooks the West Branch Susquehanna Valley. Photo credit Holly Byers

If you are inspired by Read and Bierley’s story and want to learn more about NPC’s conservation projects and programs, we invite you to visit www.npcweb.org or contact the staff directly at 570-323-6222.

About Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy

The Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) is a local land trust dedicated to conserving and enhancing the lands and waters of Northcentral PA. They have helped gain and enhance recreational access to some of the area’s most beloved outdoor destinations – including the Loyalsock Trail, Pine Creek Rail Trail, as well as the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. Moreover, their ongoing streambank stabilization projects have contributed significantly to the restoration of the region’s water resources. With the support of their members, NPC has conserved over 12,000 acres for the environmental well-being of our communities across a 12-county area.