Countryside Conservancy

Countryside Conservancy | Protecting land, trails & waterways in La Plume

Countryside Conservancy, based in La Plume, is a nonprofit land trust dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The organization protects nearly 1,500 acres of land and water across Lackawanna, Susquehanna and Wyoming counties, with a special focus on the scenic Tunkhannock Creek watershed. Through conservation, education and recreation, the group works to ensure these spaces remain unspoiled for future generations.

Public Access to Trails & Preserves

Countryside Conservancy owns and maintains 14 nature preserves, many open to the public for hiking, biking and wildlife observation. It also manages the popular Trolley Trail in Clarks Summit, a restored rail line reimagined as a scenic walking and biking path. Each location offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and quiet connection with nature.

Trails & Preserves

• Bagley Preserve
• Davis Crossing Preserve
• Fordham Preserve
• Forest Acres Preserve
• Gardner Spencer Preserve
• Gateway Preserve
• Little Rocky Glen Preserve
• Meadowsweet Preserve
• Messimer Preserve
• Quarry Ridge Preserve
• Rowlands Preserve
• Shepherd Preserve
• Trolley Trail
• Trostle Pond Preserve
• Waverly Preserve
• Ziegler Preserve

Land Protection & Volunteer Support

In addition to owning land, the Conservancy partners with private landowners through conservation easements—legal agreements that limit development to preserve natural areas. The organization depends on donations and volunteer support to maintain trails, plan events and manage conservation programs. Community members are encouraged to help protect the region’s green spaces through hands-on stewardship and advocacy.

Countryside Conservancy continues to safeguard NEPA’s landscapes through conservation, recreation and a commitment to keeping the region beautiful and accessible.