Devault, Pa., July 1, 2026 — French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust finalized two voluntary conservation easements on Monday, June 30, 2026, to permanently protect 34.9 acres in North Coventry Township. This newly preserved land is comprised of the 15.1-acre property of the Arena-Fanucci Family and the 19.8-acre property of Alice Sharp. The preservation of these properties complements over 13,700 acres already protected by French & Pickering in northern Chester County.
The 15.1-acre Arena-Fanucci property features varied wildlife habitat comprised of dense tree canopy, wetlands, wet meadows, and seeps that sit within an area labeled an Audubon Important Bird Area and Pennsylvania Important Mammal Area. 726 feet of Pigeon Creek—designated a High-Quality Waters Cold Water Fishes (CWF) by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP)—flows through the property. The stream in this area has healthy forested buffers that support a stable floodplain system. The site also features nutrient-rich soil considered Prime Agricultural Soils or Soils of Statewide Importance by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The 19.8-acre property of Alice Sharp features a mix of active agricultural land, historic farmstead, hardwood forest, and a historic dam along Eckers Run, also designated by the PADEP as High-Quality Waters CWF. This highly productive farmland is adjacent to the pre-existing preserved lands of the Laurel Locks Farm complex. It is supported by healthy soils identified as Soils of Statewide Importance by the USDA.
“These projects protect regionally important habitat and agricultural lands,” noted Karl Russek, Conservation Director. “These wins for conservation are another manifestation of North Coventry’s durable commitment to partnering on open space preservation and preserving quality of life for its residents.”
Preserved under a conservation easement held by French & Pickering, these properties are permanently protected from subdivision and development.
“Conservation succeeds because people choose to care for the land,” said Bill Gladden, Executive Director. “We’re grateful to the Arena-Fanucci family and Alice Sharp for making a lasting commitment to the future of North Coventry Township.”
For further information, please contact Karl Russek at krussek@frenchandpickering.org.
