FSF Granted $1.5M from Keystone Fund for Villa Maria Conservation Project

The Foundation for Sustainable Forests has been granted $1.5 million by the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Keystone Recreation, Park, & Conservation Fund. This award will be used toward the acquisition of approximately 671 acres surrounding the Villa Maria community of the Sisters of the Humility of Mary in Pulaski Township, Lawrence County. Under their ownership, FSF will continue the Sisters’ legacy of stewardship on these lands, which will accessible to the public for some recreational uses.

This award is part of a nearly $82 million investment of state funding in 295 recreation and conservation projects across 58 counties administered by DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2). FSF’s award is one of five projects funded in Lawrence County, totaling nearly $2 million invested in the County.

The Foundation for Sustainable Forests appreciates the support of DCNR and the Keystone Fund and looks forward to working with the Sisters of the Humility of Mary to conserve the lands they have stewarded since the 1860s.

Excerpted from the January 12, 2026 News Release by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania:

“These investments open the door for more people to enjoy the parks, rivers, and trails that make Pennsylvania special — no matter where they live,” says DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “When we invest in outdoor spaces close to home, we invest in people. These places bring families together, give kids room to play, help neighbors connect, and make our communities healthier and happier. Strong local parks and trails don’t just improve daily life, they help our towns and cities thrive for generations to come.”

“The outdoors are for everyone — whether you enjoy spending time at a local park, out on the water, or on a trail — every Pennsylvanian deserves access to safe, welcoming outdoor spaces close to home,” says Governor Shapiro. “Because of our investments, communities across Pennsylvania will be able to improve parks, build new trails, and help more people enjoy the benefits of nature, in cities and rural towns alike. My Administration, through the work of DCNR and Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn, is working to protect and conserve the natural places that truly make Pennsylvania a world class destination and the ultimate Great American Getaway.”

1/12/2026 – Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Press Release

1/16/2026 – WFMJ Lawrence County to receive nearly $2 million in funding for park, recreation projects