Greenhouse Seedlings

Permanent protection of the Great Bend Organic farm along the Kittatinny Ridge contains sourcewater, wetlands, woodlands and over a mile of frontage on the Schuylkill River.  The management of the property makes significant contributions to water quality and quantity of the Schuylkill River.

Over 169 acres in West Brunswick Township along the Kittatinny Ridge in Schuylkill County was permanently protected in 2012.  More than 60% of the land is woodlands and wetlands and Schuylkill frontage.  This farm also has high standards for management of the farm and woodlands.  The farm contains great land and water habitat with local breeding species of animals and birds along with being a habitat for migratory species of birds and acquatic life.

John Spang and Tanya Russ protected their property to preserve the organic agricultural, silvicultural, water, and aesthetic values of the property.  Also, it has very special recreational and cultural assets.  The Appalachian Trail is across the river, and the property is part of the Schuylkill River Trail.  There is a relatively intact canal lock on site.

Many thanks to partners who contributed to the preservation of this special property, including the landowner, the Schuylkill County Conservancy, and Hawk Mountain Sanctuary.