annual report - North Branch Land Trust

2014
A N N U A L
R E P O R T
who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure
“asThose
long as life lasts. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature
”
— the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.
~ Rachel Carson, Silent Spring
2 NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG
LETTER FROM THE
Grass Pink, bi-color Orchid, Valmont Preserve
Dear Friends,
Three cheers to all our donors, members, volunteers and vendors for making 2014
another successful year for land conservation in Northeastern Pennsylvania. In
the pages that follow you will read about some of NBLT’s current efforts to conserve significant natural areas in our region. The project areas harbor rare plant
and animal species, provide important watershed protection for our water supply, and add to our recreation opportunities.
There are certain facts about the world we live in that have a direct bearing on
our quality of life. Some of these facts are: The earth and its natural resources are
mostly finite. As an example, there is only so much dirt to farm, water to drink,
minerals to mine, trees to cut etc. Also, the earth has a maximum carrying capacity meaning it only has enough natural resources to support a certain number of
inhabitants. If we cross this threshold we run the risk of degrading these finite
natural resources to such a point that the quality of life for all of us declines and
continues to do so until a new equilibrium point is reached.
Many scientists believe that we have already reached the tipping point, that we
are consuming the earth’s resources far faster than they can ever be replaced, and
that our quality of life will decline because of this unless we bring things back into
balance. Of course technology can play a major role in stemming the tide of over
utilization of resources but even with technology we need to be acutely mindful
of our symbiotic relationship with the earth and its finite resources.
All of us at NBLT believe that land conservation plays an important role in helping
to keep things in balance. The smart development of certain lands and resources
coupled with the conservation of our most critical natural areas can help maintain and even improve our quality of life. The devil is in the details! What is the
right mix of consumption and conservation?
With your support 3,700 acres were conserved this year!
Thank you again for your continued support,
Mission:
The North Branch
Land Trust works in
partnership with
landowners and
their communities
to conserve the
scenic, natural and
working landscapes
that sustain us.
Paul Lumia, Executive Director
Bald Eagle Family, Vosburg Neck, PA
NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG In 2014, NBLT offered many opportunities for people to connect to and love the land!
We hiked:
Bear Creek Preserve hike
We built
trails:
We photographed:
Photography Workshops
Annual Susquehanna
River Paddle
We paddled:
Newly constructed trail at
Picton Sanctuary
Natural Creations
Workshop
We created:
“Without love of the
land, conservation
lacks meaning or
purpose for only in
a deep and inherent
feeling for the land
can there be dedication
in preserving it.”
We traveled:
We made merry:
~ Sigurd F. Olson
We
played:
15th Annual
Dinner & Auctions
We learned:
Connect Kids to the Land Workshop
We renovated:
South Africa
Conservation Safari
Winterfest at
Picton Sanctuary
Barn renovation at the Howland Preserve
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4 NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG
Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage
Corridor Seven Tubs Rail Trail Project
North Branch Land Trust will soon be taking ownership of
2.5 miles of the old Lehigh & Susquehanna railroad bed
from Oliver Mills to the Seven Tubs Natural Area. NBLT will
work with Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor
(D&L) personnel to improve the rail bed for pedestrian and
non-motorized bike traffic. Once complete, this section of
trail will be deeded over to the Pennsylvania Bureau of
Forestry which will manage the trail going forward. This
trail project is part of a larger trail construction project
being managed by the D&L that will link the recently
completed Black Diamond trail in Mountain Top to the
Seven Tubs. The entire Heritage Corridor is a continuous
165-mile trail beginning in Bucks County, Bristol, PA and
terminating at the River Commons in Wilkes-Barre. The
trail uses primarily the Lehigh Canal Towpath and the old
Lehigh Valley Railroad bed.
In the near future NBLT will be collaborating with the D&L
to complete the trail from the Seven Tubs to North Hampton Street in Wilkes-Barre. The ultimate goal will be for hikers and bikers to travel an unbroken trail from the River
Commons in Wilkes-Barre to Bristol and on to Philadelphia.
This National Heritage Corridor represents an historical
journey telling a story of coal from mine to market. Visit
the D&L website to learn more and definitely get out and
experience those sections of trail that are already complete. http://www.delawareandlehigh.org/
Funding for this acquisition project came from a Community Partnerships Program Grant award to NBLT from
DCNR. Funding for these grants comes from Keystone
Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund (Key93), the Environmental Stewardship Fund, the Growing Greener Bond
Fund and federal funding sources.
NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG Mocanaqua Highlands Acquisition Project
This 3053-acre project is a partnership between North
Branch Land Trust (NBLT), The Earth Conservancy, the
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR), & the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry.
We have been working to protect this tract since the mid
2000’s and the parcel is a key piece in the Land Trust’s strategic conservation planning efforts.
blocks support plants and animals that are dependent on
interior forest conditions including bird species, fishers,
bobcats, Northern Goshawks and Barred Owls.
Above and beyond the protection of habitat for important
plant and animal species, protecting the Mocanaqua Highlands will make available over 3,000 acres to the public
for a host of passive recreation activities including hiking,
mountain biking, cross country skiing and rock climbing.
The property contains mostly forested acres. Along its
northern boundary is the Susquehanna River and the
southern boundary is adjacent to the Pennsylvania Fish
and Boat Commission’s Lily Lake recreation area. A large
portion of the property includes the Penobscot Mountain ridgetop. There is an existing 15-mile loop trail on the
property. The property will ultimately be deeded to the
Bureau of Forestry and will become part of the Lackawanna State Forest system.
NBLT hopes to build on this acquisition in an effort to
launch future conservation projects along the Penobscot Ridge and the Susquehanna River with our ultimate
goal being to build an uninterrupted greenway along
the southern edge of the Wyoming Valley. Large forested
Funding for this acquisition project came from the Enhance Penn’s Woods program, a two-year, more than
$200 million initiative launched by former Governor Tom
Corbett to repair and improve Pennsylvania’s state parks
and forests.
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6 NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG
Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA
Camp Kresge Conservation Project
NBLT is proud to announce the 650-acre Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA Camp Kresge Conservation Easement project
located in Dennison Township, Luzerne County, PA. The
property is significant in that it contains wetlands and
headwater of the Nescopeck Creek, is contiguous to Nescopeck State Park and Pennsylvania Game Lands 187, and
harbors some globally rare plant species.
supports plants and animals who are dependent on interior forest conditions.
The conservation easement area will be available to the
public for passive recreation activities year round thereby greatly increasing the amount of publicly accessible
lands in the area. This conservation project will help link
many thousands of acres of existing conserved land and
will help in creating an uninterrupted forested block that
Funding for this acquisition project came from a Community Partnerships Program Grant award to NBLT from
DCNR. Funding for these grants comes from Keystone
Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund (Key93), the
Environmental Stewardship Fund, the Growing Greener
Bond Fund and federal funding sources.
Stay tuned for more details on this conservation project as NBLT works to catalog the flora and fauna found
at the conservation site. It is our hope to complete this
project toward the end of 2015.
NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG Welcome to New
Board Members and Staff
Guthrie Mitchell
Nicholas G. Ouellette
D. Kay Strickland
Retired
Christina Dilks Taylor
NBLT welcomes our newest members of the Board of Directors. Guthrie, Nick, Kay, and Christina, bring a variety of professional skills and
talents to help NBLT advance its conservation mission throughout
Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Ellen Parmenteri
NBLT’s newly hired Operation Administrator,
Ellen, comes to the Land Trust from the United
Way of Wyoming Valley and served there as
the Fiscal Director for various state and federal
grant funds. Prior to her experience at the United Way, Ellen served for many years as the business manager for a local law firm managing all
aspects of a small business. Ellen is a graduate
of Wilkes University and is active with the Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre
and a member of the Luzerne and Plymouth Historical Societies. She
is responsible for the day to day administrative operations of the Land
Trust including financial reporting and recordkeeping, human resources management, and grant administration.
Volunteer of the Year
Charlene Wildes
As chairperson of
the NBLT Events
Committee, Charlene has spent
countless hours
planning
and
leading programs
for the Land Trust
from herb workshops to hikes
to
environmental programs for
children. She is
a gifted naturalist and hundreds of people—of all ages—have benefited from her
knowledge and talent. Growing up near the Chesapeake Bay, Charlene
developed her passion for nature at a young age and has maintained
that passion all her life. NBLT is most fortunate to be a recipient of her
talent, knowledge, time and energy.
BOARD MEMBER:
Margaret Bakker
DIR. OF OPERATIONS:
Linda Thoma
Margaret Bakker is one of the founding members
of the North Branch Land Trust and has supported
NBLT since its beginning. She was instrumental in
the restoration of the Noxen Depot. We are grateful
to Margaret for all she has done to help conserve
open space in our region since 1993. NBLT will miss
her many talents.
After 19 years of service, Linda Thoma retired from
the North Branch Land Trust. Linda began her tenure in February 1996 when she became the land
trust’s first employee. Since that time, Linda played
a vital role in NBLT’s evolution. She handled various responsibilities and tackled numerous special
projects. She wrote countless grant applications
that provided critical funding for land conservation
projects. Linda developed the land trust’s policies
and procedures, hired staff, maintained financial records, and partnered with the Board of Directors to
advance NBLT’s mission. Linda’s depth of experience
gave her a unique understanding of all aspects of
the land trust’s inner workings, a knowledge base
that will be difficult to replace. We wish her well in
her retirement.
To All Our Volunteers
An extra special THANK YOU to all of NBLT’s
dedicated volunteers! Volunteers are the life
blood of the Land Trust and whether you are
attending meetings, stuffing thousands of
envelopes for mailings, monitoring conserved
properties, restoring an old house and barn,
building trails, clearing brush, leading hikes
or hauling trash, you are most appreciated.
The Land Trust is honored that you are willing
to donate your time, energy and talents to
NBLT’s land conservation mission.
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8 NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG
Donors
January 1, 2014 –December 31, 2014
We extend sincere thanks to the conservation-minded friends whose commitment
and support make possible North Branch Land Trust’s efforts to conserve land and
connect people to nature in northeastern Pennsylvania. The donors listed on the
following pages provided meaningful support throughout the year.
Black Bear cub,
Dallas, PA
NORTH BRANCH GUARDIAN
$5,000 & UP
Earth Conservancy
Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau
Eberhard & Mary Louise Faber
First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.
James & Florence DePolo Foundation
Kenneth & Caroline Taylor
Family Foundation
Robert & Nancy Kulow
Richard Maslow
Sordoni Family Foundation
The Glen Summit Company
Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA
CONSERVATION SOCIETY
$2,500-$4,999
Berkshire Asset Management
William D. & Jeanie Haas
Bill & Wilma James
Mericle Commercial Real Estate Services
Norcross Wildlife Foundation
Shoval Foundation
Sundance Vacations
Twigs Restaurant and Café
STEWARDSHIP SOCIETY
$1,000-$2,499
Anonymous
Benco Dental
Citizens’ Voice
George & Maureen Conyngham
Lou Conyngham
Rose
Breasted
Grosbeak
Creative Business Interiors
John & Tina Dowd
Floral Designs
Gertrude Hawk Chocolates
Robert H. Graham
Chris & Ramah Hackett
Huntsville Golf Club
Nell-Ann Kappler
Clayton & Theresa Karambelas
David & Kathy Kautter
John Keker
Melanie Maslow Kern & Chip Kern
John W. & Elizabeth Lloyd
Paul Lumia
Dave & Carolyn McLaughlin-Smith
One Source Staffing Solutions
Tony & Elaine Palischak
Leigh Pawling
Bob & Barb Romanansky
James & Susan A. Shoemaker
Kay Strickland & Tom Delehanty
Thrive Wellness Center
Times Printing
Marleen Troy
Valentine’s Jewelry
Fred Valentine
Alan Viani & Jane Morgenstern
Mike & Caitlin Weaver
Dr. Thomas G. & Janis R. Winter
WP Valmont Associates, LP
Wyoming Valley Motors
BENEFACTOR
$500-$999
Aerus Electrolux
Anonymous
Bakker & Lewis Architects
Sarah Carr & Durland Edwards
Dr. Carl & Susan Charnetski
Clements Dentistry, Inc.
Frank E.P. & Marion Conyngham
William H. & Christina L. Conyngham
Cornell Iron Works
Nina Davidowitz
Greg & Carol J. Douds
Jennifer Dressler
Endless Mountain Outfitters
First National Bank of Pennsylvania
Capt. Alan B. Flanagan, USN (Ret)
Stephen & Mary Fox
Golden Business Machines, Inc.
Sandra Goodwin
Ellie Harding & David Birchler
Charlotte Harrison
Frank M. Henry
Karl A. Herzog
David & Sharon Hourigan
Hourigan, Kluger & Quinn, P.C.
Benjamin R. Jones, IV
Bill & Christine Kammerer
Kovalchik, Kollar & Co., LLP
Bruce Lefkowitz
Ann R. Lewis
Carol Lizell
Sharon Logan
John R. & Suzanne Loyack
Luzerne Co. Convention & Visitors Bureau
M & T Charitable Foundation
Thomas & Judith Mack
Jean E. Mieczkowski
Guthrie Mitchell
Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs
Morda Kotch & Associates PC
Colleen Hosey Morda
Joseph & Rose Marie Panzitta
ParenteBeard LLC
Procter & Gamble Paper Products Co.
Radiation Medicine Specialists of
Northeast PA., P.C.
Senator Lisa Baker
John & Catherine Shafer
Jon Sordoni
Matthew Sordoni
William B. Sordoni
Thomas E. & Karen Sox
Julie McCarthy Strzeletz
Trey & Christina Taylor
The Black Horse Foundation, Inc.
The Lands At Hillside Farms
The Luzerne Foundation
The Straub Family Fund of
The Luzerne Foundation
The Westmoreland Club
Trinity Artisans
Dr. Carl R. Urbanski
Watkins & Medura Dental Center
NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG Female & Male Common Mergansers in flight
Greg & Mia Weaver
Gerald & Cynthia Weber
John H. Weinberg
Rick Williams & Linda Casey
LEADER
$250-$499
Joe Ackourey & Cheri Balmer
David & Stacey Bass
Cindy Beaumariage & Rick Mooney
Borton Lawson Engineering, Inc.
Borwick’s Performance Hi-Fidelty
Brown Hill Tree Co.
Jane Butkovsky
Dr. Michael & Deborah Klayman Callahan
CANTEEN 900
Charles & Natasha Carpenter
Dr. Alfred & Mary Casale
Thomas & Patricia Finan Castellano
Dr. Cindy Charnetski & Paul Shiber
Cloud Nine Balloons
Michael & Meg Cramton
Julie Lumia Cronauer
Phil & Judy Decker
Paul & Sucheta P. Dembowski
Allan & Debra Dick
Jim & Laura Dickson
William & Mary Dockeray
Mike & Rachael Dziak
Eastern Pennsylvania Supply Co.
Embellish Home Accents
Endless Mountain Quiltworks
Paula Fall & Brian Gettig
Fertile Grounds CSA
First Keystone Community Bank
First Liberty Wealth Management
Dr. Seth & Carolyn Fisher
Ralph & Marcia Frank
James & Janice Gorman
John & Patricia Graham
Great Spangled Fritillary sharing a thistle
flower with bees
Dr. Gretta A. Gross
Brian & Renee Grove
Carl J. Handman, AIA, Architect
Charles & Monika Heimbold
Honeyhole Longbeards Chapter NWTF
Humford Equities, Inc.
Jerry & Marian Hiester Idec
iGourmet.com
InterMetro Industries
Johnson & Johnson
Maribeth Jones
Terry & Wendy Jones
Wendell & Kathy Jones
Josh & Liz Katyl
Marcella Kelly
Stephen B. & Estella Killian
Jean Kolojejchick
Dr. William Krah III
Kronick, Kalada, Berdy, & Co.
Michael & Patricia M. Last
Judy Lemmond
Marie Lewis
Luzerne Bank
M & T Bank
Joseph Macialek
Howard L. Mantle
Martz Travel
Debbie Maseychik
Raymond & Agnes Massacesi
Bob & Nancy Mayer
John & Lindsey McGeehan
John & Mary Metz
Scott & Susan Meuser
Scott & Marilyn Millington
Misericordia University
Chip Morgan
Dr. Phil & Rev. Barbara Muntzel
Nick Ouellette
PNC Bank
Riggs Asset Management Company
Dr. David & Judy Rimple
Ringneck Ridge Inc.
Virginia G. Rivers
Ed & Corny Romanowski
Michael & Mary Rosto
Marjorie Rough
Robert & Theresa Ryan
Annette Sheldon
Judd & Susan Shoval
Troy & Jessica Standish
The Tambur Family Foundation
Jon Thomas
Trion Industries, Inc.
Valley Aviation, Inc.
Verve Vertu Art Studio
Woodhouse Day Spa
PATRON
$100-$249
3 Sisters
A.J. Lupas Insurance Agency Inc.
Richard P. & Jan Abramowitz
Acton Technologies, Inc.
Paul & Jean Adams
Rich & Daphne Adams
Russ Andrews
Around Town Bicycles
Aura Salon
Kermit & Sally Ayres
Baby Vogue Boutique
Back Mountain Bloomers Garden Club
Back Mountain Harvest Assembly
Bakehouse Bakery & Cafe
Balance Yoga & Wellness
Virginia H. Banks
Lynn Banta
Bartolai Winery
Bear Creek Café
Victor & Melissa Berti
Black Bear, Tunkhannock, PA
Cynthia Bhagat
Penny Bianconi & Charles Erwine
David & Phyllis Billings
Black Sheep Network, INC.
Bohlin Cywinski Jackson
Paul Bookstein
Kevin & Janet Boylan
Barbara Bradley
Joanie Brenton
Anthony T.P. Brooks
Bruce Troy Electric, Inc.
buka
Bill & Carole Burak
Mike Burnside
Peter & Lesa Butera
Cabot Oil & Gas Corporation
Camp Robin Hood Family
Robert L. Carson
Jane Caruso-Dahms & Eric Nogin
Lee Case & Graysha Harris
Mike Chase
Jeff & Elizabeth Comiskey
Corine Coniglio
Art Coolbaugh
Ann Coughlin
Country Ski & Sport Shop
Creekside Gardens
9
10 NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG
Renovated 19th Century Barn, Howland Preserve
Larry Crimi
Tom & Laurie Cywinski
George & Carol Daru
Diane Davies & Sara Thompson
Bill & Autumn Davis
Dwight & Molly Davis
Deer Park Holdings, Ltd.
Dr. Patrick J. & Lois DeGennaro
Beth Ann Delaney
Jay & Valerie Delaney
John & Patti Della Rosa
Joseph & Nan DeMarco
Jim & Flo DePolo
Brian Derenick
Walter & Charlotte Derhammer
David & Laura DeVoe
Thomas Dorko
Keith Dorton & Maria Landis
Bill & Audrey C. Eberhardt
Environmental Club,
Wyoming Seminary Lower School
Erwine Home Health and Hospice, Inc.
Fetching Fido Fotography
Fidelity Bank
Dominic & Ruth Fino
First Liberty Bank and Trust
Judd B. & Dianne Fitze
James & Elizabeth Flannery
Forks Farm
John C. & Joan S. Foster
Dr. Louis & Nancy Freedman
Rob Friedman
Jackson L. Gearhart
William M. Gleason & Sandra Gardosik
Joseph & Mary Glynn
Great Gifts 900
Guyette Communications
Robert & Evelyn Hagen
Wilhelmina Hailstone
Thomas & Judith Hall
Peggy A. Hamilton
Dr. Michael W. & Tammie Harris
Harveys Lake Veterinary Clinic
Wilbur F. Hayes
Louise Hazeltine
William E. Hine, Jr.
Terry & Cindy Holdridge
Ted & Patty Horn
Robert C. & Nancy Houck
Howard & Julianne Daly
Charitable Gift Fund
George & Barbara Hugo
Ice House Pub
Irem Country Club Pro Shop
George Isaacs
Jack Williams Tire Company, Inc.
Jane Leslie & Co.
Dave & Kate Jenkins
Joseph & Edith Kachurak
Kalinosky Landscaping Inc
Jeff & Maureen Kaminski
Bill, Kim & Kaelee Kane
Rhonda Seward Keller
Kilmer Insurance Agency, Inc.
Gerard Kipp
Robert J. & Gina Klepadlo
Joe & Pete Kneidinger
John & Jennifer Kolessar
David A. Kovalchik, CPA
Chris Krall
Allen Kropiewnicki
John J. & Jill V. Kryston
Dr. William J. & Nancie Krywicki
Dave & Karen Kyle
James & Christine Lacomis
Patrick Layden
Bob & Shirley Leitner
John J. Levitsky
Linde Corporation
Lizza Studios
Lockard Surveying & Mapping
L.T. Verrastro
Jim Luce
John P. & Angela Lynch
Dr. Michael A. & Tina MacDowell
Dave & Diane Madl
Peter & Cindy Mailloux
Mainstreet Galleries
Majestic Wines
Mar Cor Fine Woodworking
Marquis Art and Frame
Martin’s Restaurant
Maslow Lumia Bartorillo Advertising
Masonry Preservation Services, Inc.
Mattern’s Flora and Furnishings
Sidney D. & Paige May
Glen & Jennifer Mayers
Thomas & Deborah McGrath
Bryan & Anne McManus
Kris Medic & Bruce Thomason
Rob Meehan
Gretchen Melnyk
Melt Hot Yoga
Mick & Judy Mertz
Midway Garden Center
Jeannie Mikush
Bill & Abbie Milligan
Howland House in Winter
Cindy Post Mitchell
Morgan Stanley
Anastasia Morgan
Mr. Honey-Do Handyman Services
Nahas & Donahue Orthodontics
Paul & Claudia Niezgoda
North East Eagle
Teresa Nowak
Barry & Marilyn O’Boyle
Joe O’Connor
Overbrook Pub & Grille
Jeremy Packard & Ingrid Cronin
Vance Packard & Bonnie Smith
Joseph & Nancy Paddock
Panzitta Enterprises, Inc.
John & Sandra Panzitta
Parkhurst Enterprises, Inc.
The Parsons Family
Gene & Betsy Pelletier
Pennsy Supply
Peoples Security Bank & Trust
Susquehanna River,
Howland Preserve
Robert A. Piccone
Art & Sandy Piccone
Ken & Nancy Kaiser Pidcock
Daniel & Jean Pope
Rainbow Jewelers
Charles A. & Mary Annette Rawls
Barbara Reel
Reeves Rent-A-John, Inc.
Harry & Liz Reich
Sandy Rhodes & Julie A. Dostal
James P. Ridolfi & Marguerite Glaser
Clark Riley
SuAnn Ritter
Linda Jo Robbins
James & Barbara Rogers
Bobbi-Jo Romanishan
J. David & Joan Roskos
Phillip Roth
Marshall & Anne Rumbaugh
Theron I. & Pam Russell
Saucha
Wilma A. Schierer
Shawnee Craft Brewery
Tom & Anne Sherwood
Wendy Shortz
Showroom 56
Bonnie Silvetti
Darren & Kelly Snyder
William & Jennifer Sordoni
Space and Time Professional Organizers
11
NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG Miracle of
Water Workshop
Brian & Lauren Stahl
Debbie Stancavage
Richard D. & Marilyn Stark
Joe & Keiko Stusnick
Tanament Stables
Stephen Taren
Ken & Caroline Taylor
Sharon Templin
The Beaumont Inn
The Lion Brewery
The Upstairs Gallery
Michael Tomalis & Theresa Gatusky
Truly Scrumptious
UGI Penn Natural Gas, Inc.
Elva Valentine & David Green
VGOGH GALLERY
Marcia Wazeter & Albert Jesikiewicz
Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC
Robert & Irene Wendoloski
Weyerbacher Brewery
Bruce & Gert Whipple
Wild Birds Unlimited
Wilkes University
Gary & Denise Williams
Michael Wilson
Eric & Anne Woelfel
Jim Wolfe & Family
Mountain Top winter creek
Charles Wrobel
Karen Yamrus
Craig & Karen Yarrish
John & Maggie Zembruski
Ed & Amber Zygmunt
ADVOCATE
$50-$99
Ah! Some Chocolates
Lynn K. Aldrich
Allen H. & Margaret W. Alexander
Donald & Nancy Alonzo
Back Mountain Agway
Jim & Christine Balavage
Jane S. Balliet
Larry & Lillian Beeman
Dorrance R. & Susan Belin
Walter & Carol Ann Bennetto
Frank & Carol Bevevino
Bistro on the Avenue
Donna Broda Kuliczkowski
Dr. Rodney D. Brown
Jerry & Teresa Cavalier
Rylan Coker & Rebecca Lane
Greg & Marcia Coleman
Betsy Condron
M. Clark & Rita Conlon
Connor’s Grillroom
Corbett Insurance Group
Andy & Marsha Costello
Countryside Conservancy
James & Kate Crowley
Dave & Roberta Daniels
Raelene Daring
Dr. Wayne & Bonnie Dombroski
Joseph & Barbara Ducic
Janine Dymond
Bob & Nancy Edgerton
Edward’s Garden Center
Edwards & Amerise, CPA
Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc
Richard & Elizabeth Endres
Allen W. & Mary Erwine
David & Sharon Estep
Sanford & Maryann Evans
F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts
Chris Ferner
Thomas J. & Barbara H. Field
Tina Fiorani
Leonard E. & Judy Ganis
Gay’s True Value Hardware, Inc.
Trudy D. Gerlach
Joe & Steve Germick
Andrew Gobish
Seth Gollhardt
Rich & Bonnie Gower
Tom & Patti Granoski
Grico’s
Groomingdell’s
Harry & Dolores Grozio
Eleanor Gwyn-Jones
Joan Hamilton
Lucia Harkenreader
Harold J. Golomb Farm
Woody Haydt
James M. & Louise M. Herring, Jr.
Hog Bay Pottery
Anne Holmes
James & Eileen Hoyson
Carol Hussa
Len Janus
Beverly Johnson
Tom Jones
KB Coffee House
Kevin’s Bar and Restaurant
Dr. Mari King
Charles Kinsman
Lance & Sandra Kittelson
Thomas R. Kneidinger
Koch’s Turkey Farm
John S. Koehler
Michael R. & Noree C. Kolman
John P. Konicki, D.D.S.
Anthony J. & Vivian Korch
Constance Kozel
Joe Kozich
William & Catherine Kuklinski
Christopher Kule
Rich Lacomis
Dale Lane
Mt. Pisgah Hike
Bob & Jan Larmouth
R. Lawatch & M. Goldberg
Kathryn Lietz
Dr. William & Becky Loftus
Janice Lohmann
Gretchen Ludders & Bob Fleese
Nick Lylo
Dr. Kurt D. & Sylvia Maas
Ned McGuire
Cathy McHugh
Caleb McKenzie
Clarence J. & Morag E. Michael
Dave & Denise Moore
Kim Morgan
James S. & Mary Ann S. Murphy
Russell G. Newell
Nick of Time Printing
Kip & Marilyn Nygren
Constance Orchard
Joseph & Joanne Osiecki
John & Michaelene S. Ostrum
Edward & Judy Palka
Anne Pelak
Steve Pelleschi
12 NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG
Mink at sunrise
Penguin Group (USA) Inc.
Michele Phillips
Pizza Perfect
Bob Quarteroni
Dave Reel & Mimi Kaufman
Chase & Molly Reynolds
Susan Richards
Christine Rizzo
Jessica Rizzo
Rowlands Pennsylvania Produce
Bill & Joanne Runner
Sa-ka-ri Salon & Spa
Joe Sabatini
Sassy Albert Soaps
Tammy Schane & Vincent Haas
Roberta Schmied
John & Mary Jo Shalanski
Daniel & Bonnie Shane
James & Robin Shedlauskas
Shooze
Slamon and Company
Beth Slock
Bob & Ellen Smith
Donald D. & Midge Smith
Dr. Richard & Karen Somma
Bob Sprague & Amy Levengood
Kenneth Staub
Burt & Mary Louise Stoffel
Susan Charnetski Interior Design
The Charles & Denny Barber Family Fund
of the Luzerne Foundation
Bernie & Linda Thoma
Robert B. & Hannah Tolles
Barry & Shirley Trievel
Lenny Trolio
Jacob & Joni Turner
Bob & Catherine Veleker
Alixandra L.C. Westbrook
Helen Westenheffer
Wet Paint
Bob & Maureen Whipple
Jeremy White
Marguerite Woelfel
Woodside Trust
Raymond Youngblood
SPONSOR
$30-$49
Robert J. & Nancy L. Adams
William Adams & Angela Marchesani
Dr. Joseph & Maureen Anistranski
Diane Arnold
Nancy Baker
Sally Barnes
Beckwith Maples
Amanda Birk & Chris Lent
AJ & Lynn Bittner
Tim Boyle
Brace’s Orchard
Roger Brown & Daniel F. Leonard
Paul & Elaine Burg
Judge A. Richard & Rosemary Caputo
Bill & Susan Carmalt
Gary R. & Kim Carpenter
Mike & Alene Case
Donald J. & Rose Ann A. Casey
Janet A. Conser
Bill Cook
Carl & Marcia Crispell
Susan Demko & James Jasterzenski
Rick Denmon
Jason A. English
Alice R. Erb
Christine Erb
Carole Ertley
Pam Fedak
Adam Ferrucci
Fire and Ice on Toby’s Creek
Gail Forstater
Ed & Georgeann Frey
George Burger & Sons
Michael M. Gondell
Denis Hackney
Jack & Jean Hanish
Rodney & Carol Heckert
Jack & Karen Hoover
Jack & Margaret Hoover
Fran & Paul Imbriaco
Jim Kotz
Young-Nam & Alexis Kwon
Julio & Nancy Larralde
Marilyn Lehew
Michael Leskowsky
Thomas Leskowsky
John & Janeann Lokken
Longwood Gardens
Mary Ann Luton
Bill Martin
David & Mary Martin
Paul Mazza & Lindsay Pross
Sandy McGovern
Katie McHutchison
Bob Mercando
Palmira Gregory Miller
Elizabeth Montalvo
Brenda Naugle
Outrageous
P&D Pet Supply
William O. Palmer
Dale & Ellen Parmenteri
Phillip & Molly Piazza
Robert J. & Mary Ann Prymus
Ted L. Radzinski
Jennifer Reese
Margaret Reid
John Riccetti
Lawrence & Wilma Richards
Salon NouVeau
Unusual Painted
Trillium with
four petals
Ben & Ronalee Schall
Michele Schasberger & Michael Polgar
Joan Schooley & Fred Willauer
Charlie & Helen Schwarz
Joe & Rose Slusark
Jean Smith
Natalie Smith
Gordon Snow
J. R. Spagnuolo, DMD
Betty St. Martin
Gerald & Sandra Stankiewicz
Theresa Stewart
Joanne Taras
Joan Taylor
The Carrick Family
Michael Tonkin & Estelle Stevens
Deborah A. Trubela-Mitchell &
Richard Mitchell
Dolores G. Trycinski
Susan A. Tuleya
Patti Weed
Theodore S. Wiaterowski
Charlene Wildes
Doug & Ali Wilson
Jim Witinski
John Witinski
Peterlyn Wojtuszewska
Rev. Dr. Robert & Shawn Zanicky
STUDENT
$25
Stewart Ball
Community Bank
Debra Dowling
Ray & Julie Iwanowski
Mitchell Financial Group
Walter & Connie Mitchell
Mountain Beverage
Verlon & Mary Lou Nichols
Cardinal Meadowhawk
Dragonfly
13
NORTH BRANCH LAND TRUST • WWW.NBLT.ORG NBLT Winter Hike
Kevin & Adele Reilly
Seasons Restaurant
John & Dolores Sedeski
Tallulah
Valenti’s Restaurant
Jerome H. Weinberger
Rickard A. & Lois E. Yeust
SUPPORTER
UNDER $25
Timothy & Daneen M. Adams
Eugene Aichele
Anne Amerise
John J. Baloga
Cindy Beck
Tracy Belles
Bob Berry
Belle Boice
Brown Barn Bistro
Seven Tubs
Natural Area
MiSchelle Carpenter
Terry Cobb
Jerry & Diane Coffee
Susan Downs
Joe & Jeannie Dreier
Terri Dunn
Cynthia Dutter
Ryan Endler
Daniel Gabriel
Edna Gatzke
Linda Gilles
Wendy Gloffke
Dr. Janet Golaszewski
GoodShop
Joe Gruszkiewicz, Jr.
Andre Holley
John Kaminski
Jackie Kliamovich
Joanne Kolkebeck
Terri Kosakowski
Robin Kosick
Connie Kreyewski
Lois Kutish
Laurie Langan
Jim Lawson
Paul & Carol Lazar
Cheryl Lewis
McCain Gas & Electric, Inc.
Becky Mergo
T. Bryant Mesick
Janet Murphy
Susan Najaka
Roseann Nardone
Joanie O’Malley
Susan Pall
Cecelia Pecaitis
Plaza Beverage
Price Chopper
Judy Reap
Bob & Cindy Resavage
Michael Rostock
Walter Seferyn
David Sheydwasser
Kristen Shotwell
Jackie Simmons
Chris & Colleen Slocum
Jill Spiotta
Charles & Sharon Stanski
Michael Turninko
Anne Vinton
Mary Vinton
Terry Vosik
Molly Wright
LIsa Yupco
Anne Zaborny
Peregrine Falcon
GIFTS IN MEMORIAM
Contributions were made in
memory of the following:
Michael J. McEvoy
Richard Rivers
Buddy & Beulah Rothstein
GIFTS IN HONORARIUM
Contributions were made in
honor of the following:
Sylvia Hughes
Rick Mooney
Carol L. Seltzer
Linda Thoma
MATCHING GIFTS
The following organizations matched
contributions from members:
Johnson & Johnson
Penguin Group (USA) Inc.
GIFT MEMBERSHIPS
The following were honored by
receiving a gift membership:
Janelle Jesikiewicz
Cameron Williams
NBLT makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of these listings.
If you find an omission or a misspelling, please excuse our error
and contact us at [email protected] or call 570-696-5545 to
update our records for future donor listings.
2014 ANNUAL REPORT
Financial Information
North Branch Land Trust financial statements are prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in
accordance with standards established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) for
external financial reporting by not-for-profit organizations. The pie charts provide a glimpse of
how the Land Trust operates financially. We rely heavily on gifts and grants (74% of revenue) to
balance our budget, and most of our time and resources are spent on land conservation, education and membership activities (including fundraising) (90%).
REVENUE BY SOURCE
Contributed Support
Earned Revenues
Special Events
TOTAL
EXPENSE BY SOURCE
Program Services
Administrative
Fundraising
TOTAL
74.00%
18.00%
8.00%
100.00%
Contributed Support
Earned Revenues
Special Events
90.00%
6.00%
4.00%
100.00%
Program Services
Administrative
Fundraising
Our balance sheet is strong, with no long-term debt. The item on the balance sheet, “Property,
Plant and Equipment” represents our fee properties: the Lehigh Valley Railroad Depot in Noxen
and the Howland Preserve in Vosburg on the Susquehanna River both in Wyoming County; Harvey’s Woodlot in Harveyville, Picton Wildlife Sanctuary in White Haven, Butler Preserve and Valmont Bog in the Hazleton area, Hanover Crossings Marsh Sanctuary in Hanover Township, Bear
Creek Lake View in Bear Creek Village, and Forest Echo Bird Sanctuary in Dallas, all in Luzerne
County; and Montage Mountain Wildflower Sanctuary in Moosic, Lackawanna County. Temporarily and permanently restricted funds are gifts segregated by donors. Temporarily restricted funds
are released to the income statement after their restrictions are met, i.e. the money has been
spent on the purpose for which it was given. Permanently restricted funds are what they suggest;
the dollars can never be used by the Land Trust. Typically, permanently restricted funds provide a
source of revenue to the Land Trust from their earnings. Our policies on investing and accessing
restricted funds are also available in our office as are our complete financial statements.
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION — JUNE 30, 2014
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents ................................................................$
Accounts receivable, net....................................................................
Pledges receivable, net .....................................................................
Prepaid expenses ..............................................................................
Supply inventory ...............................................................................
Investments ......................................................................................
Property, plant and equipment, net ..................................................
Total Assets ..................................................................................$
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
Accounts payable & accrued expenses...............................................$
Project and security deposits.............................................................
Total Liabilities ..................................................................................
NET ASSETS
Unrestricted ......................................................................................$
Board designated temporarily restricted ...........................................
Temporarily restricted .......................................................................
Permanently restricted......................................................................
Total net assets ............................................................................
Total liabilities and net assets ......................................................$
83,552
2,000
31,272
3,018
444
2,221,549
2,472,481
4,814,316
14,974
33,740
48,714
1,724,541
1,339,341
1,396,542
305,178
4,765,602
4,814,316
Snowy Owl
2014 Board of Directors & Staff
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chair.............................................................................................. Matthew R. Sordoni
Vice-Chair .............................................................................. James T. Shoemaker, Esq.
Treasurer .........................................................................................Michael D. Weaver
Secretary....................................................................................Philip A. Muntzel, Ph.D.
DIRECTORS
Margaret Bakker
William H. Conyngham
James DePolo
James T. Gorman
Elizabeth Eckman Lloyd
Guthrie Mitchell
Nicholas G. Ouellette
Walter “Chip” Sorber
D. Kay Strickland
Christina Dilks Taylor
Marleen A. Troy, Ph.D., P.E.
STAFF
Paul Lumia...........................................................................................................Executive Director
Linda Thoma...............................................................................................Director of Operations
Ellen Parmenteri................................................................................. Operations Administrator
Rylan Coker ........................................................ Land Protection & Stewardship Coordinator
Barbara Romanansky ................................................. Membership & Outreach Coordinator
COMMITTEES
ANNUAL DINNER
Michael D. Weaver, Co-Chair
Greg Weaver, Co-Chair
Jane Caruso-Dahms
Liz Clements-Katyl
Frank Conyngham
Kathleen Dunsmuir
James T. Gorman
Ramah Hackett
Lanie Jordan
Bill Kammerer
Terri M. Kosakowski
Elizabeth Eckman Lloyd
Paul Lumia
Cathy McHugh
Leigh Pawling
Cindy Post Mitchell
Barb Romanansky
James T. Shoemaker, Esq.
Abby Singh
Julie Strzeletz
Linda Thoma
Barb Toczko-Maculloch
BOARD MEMBERSHIP
Philip A. Muntzel, Ph.D., Chair
James DePolo
Elizabeth Eckman Lloyd
Paul Lumia
BULK MAILING
VOLUNTEERS
Sarah P. Carr
Suzanne Druffner
Sister Constance Kozel
Carol M. Lizell
Jan Lohmann
Constance Orchard
Elaine Palischak
Tony Palischak
Eugene S. Pelletier
Susan Piazza
Rachelle Pryor
Mary Annette Rawls
Bobbie Schmied
Roberta Troy
Gary Williams
DEVELOPMENT
Charles Barber
Eberhard Faber
Paul Lumia
Barb Romanansky
Matthew R. Sordoni
EVENT PLANNING
Charlene Wildes, Chair
Jane Caruso-Dahms
Allan Dick
Deb Dick
David Estep
Sharon Estep
Paula Fall
Tina Fiorani
Brain Gettig
Marguerite Glaser
Patrick Layden
EVENT PLANNING
(continued)
Molly Piazza
Jim Ridolfi
Barb Romanansky
Abby Singh
Mike Tonkin
RENEWAL OF
ACCREDITATION
Linda Thoma, Chair
Rylan Coker
Paul Lumia
Barb Romanansky
Matthew R. Sordoni
FINANCE
Michael D. Weaver, Chair
James DePolo
James T. Gorman
Paul Lumia
Matthew R. Sordoni
Linda Thoma
RISK
MANAGEMENT
COMMITTEE
Margaret Bakker
David Buck
Rylan Coker
Dave Estep
Paul Lumia
Guthrie Mitchell
Barbara Romanansky
James T. Shoemaker, Esq.
D. Kay Strickland
Linda Thoma
Ali Wilson
HOWLAND PRESERVE
MANAGEMENT
David Buck, Chair
Edward J. Zygmunt,
Secretary
Sarah P. Carr
Rylan Coker
Jeff Fleming
Paul Lumia
Raymond Massacesi
Anthony T. Palischak
Barb Romanansky
Walter “Chip” Sorber
Maureen Whipple
Ali Wilson
Doug Wilson
LAND
Rylan Coker, Chair
Sarah P. Carr
Tina Fiorani
Anthony T. Palischak
Jim Ridolfi
James T. Shoemaker, Esq.
Brian Stahl
D. Kay Strickland
Marleen A. Troy, Ph.D.
NOXEN DEPOT
Margaret Bakker, Chair
Rodney D. Brown
Mike Dante
Elaine Dembowski
Paul Lumia
Philip A. Muntzel, Ph.D.
Ryan Sherlinski
Walter “Chip” Sorber
PICTON WILDLIFE
SANCTUARY
MANAGEMENT
David Estep, Chair
Rylan Coker
Paula Fall
Tina Fiorani
Brian Gettig
Mike Gondell
Ellie Harding
Jim Ridolfi
Bob Romanansky
Charlene Wildes
STRATEGIC
PLANNING
Matthew R. Sordoni,
Chair
James T. Shoemaker, Esq.,
Vice Chair
Michael D. Weaver,
Treasurer
Philip A. Muntzel, Ph.D,
Secretary
Paul Lumia
Linda Thoma
TASTE THE
LOCAL HARVEST
Lanie Jordan
Bill Kammerer
Terri M. Kosakowski
Paul Lumia
Cathy McHugh
Barb Romanansky
VOLUNTEER
PROPERTY
MONITORS
Lynn Aldrich
John Bensinger
Sandy Bensinger
Cindy Beaumariage
David Estep
Paula Fall
Adam Ferrucci
Tina Fiorani
Brian Gettig
Mike Gondell
Dave Jenkins
Kate Jenkins
Zack Kauffer
Bob Romanansky
Edward J. Zygmunt
Membership in North Branch Land Trust Helps Conserve What Matters Most!
Renew your membership, become a member or give a gift membership today!
MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES
Supporting Levels
❑ Student ...................................................... $25
❑ Sponsor ............................................ $35 - $49
❑ Advocate ........................................... $50 - $99
❑ Patron ........................................... $100 - $249
❑ Business .................................................. $250
Leadership Levels
❑ Leader........................................... $250 - $499
❑ Benefactor..................................... $500 - $999
❑ Stewardship Society ............... $1,000 - $2,499
❑ Conservation Society .............. $2,500 - $4,999
❑ North Branch Guardian ...................... $5,000 +
Membership runs from July 1 to June 30
MATCHING GIFT PROGRAM
Does your company have a matching gift
program? Please check box if your matching
gift form is enclosed: ❑
❑ Please remove my name from your mailing list.
YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION
Name(s):________________________________________________
Address:________________________________________________
City, State, Zip:___________________________________________
Phone: _________________________________________________
Email:__________________________________________________
We never share your personal information. If we have your email address we can save
money and trees and keep you updated all at the same time!
GIFT MEMBERSHIP RECIPIENT
Address:________________________________________________
City, State, Zip: __________________________________________
Phone: _________________________________________________
Email: _________________________________________________
For additional gift memberships, write their contact information on a separate paper.
North Branch Land Trust is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Your contribution is tax deductible to the fullest extent
permitted by law. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the PA Department
of State. Call (800) 732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
Make check payable to North Branch Land Trust
(11 Carverton Rd, Trucksville, PA 18708) or, to make an online
payment, visit www.nblt.org
For more information send an email to [email protected] or call our office (570) 696-5545
Shades Creek, Bear Creek, PA
Non-Profit Org.
US POSTAGE
PA I D
11 Carverton Road
Trucksville, PA 18708
Dallas, PA
Permit No. 12
Address Service Requested
North Branch Land Trust
11 Carverton Road • Trucksville, PA 18708
Phone: (570) 696-5545
Fax: (570) 696-5546
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.NBLT.org
PHOTO CREDITS
Cindy Beaumariage Page 7: Charlene Wildes
Jane Caruso-Dahms Page 3: Annual Dinner
Rylan Coker
Cover: Red-winged Black Bird Nest
Page 7: Margaret Bakker & Linda Thoma
Duane Erdman
Page 2: Grass Pink Orchid
Dave Estep
Page 3: Trail at Picton Sanctuary and Winterfest
Tina Fiorani
Page 3: Bear Creek Preserve Hike, Connect Kids to the
Land Workshop and Natural Creations Workshop
Page 11: Miracle of Water Workshop and Mt. Pisgah Hike
Page 12: Painted Trillium and CardinalMeadowhawk
Dragonfly
Back Cover: Seven Tubs Hike
Brian Gettig
Page 15: Shades Creek
Internet
Page 4: Seven Tubs
Page 5: Fisher
Page 6: Bobcat & Northern Goshawk
Paul Lumia
Page 8: Bear Cub and Woodland Creek
Page 9: Great Spangled Fritillary
Page 13: Winter Hike
NBLT
Page 11: Mountain Top Creek
Rich Pries
Page 12: Mink and Page 13: Peregrine Falcon
Barb Romanansky Page 3: River Paddle, South Africa Safari and
Photo Workshop
Sharon Templin
Page 2: Eagle Family
Page 8: Rose Breasted Grosbeak
Page 9: Mergansers and Black Bear
Page 14: Snowy Owl
Ali & Doug Wilson Page 3: Barn Restoration
Page 10: Red Barn, Susquehanna River at
Howland Preserve and Howland House
Printed by Llewellyn & McKane, Inc.
Hiking the Seven Tubs
“ …we humans are part of nature and saving nature is really about saving ourselves.
Nature isn’t something out there, far away, it’s living, breathing. It’s part of us.”
~ Dr. M. Sanjayan, The Nature Conservancy