Earth Conservancy

Earth Conservancy (EC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the impacts of historical coal mining practices in northeastern Pennsylvania. Our focus: reclamation, conservation, and economic revitalization. In 1992, spearheaded by Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski, leaders from area colleges, businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities joined together to address the lands of the Blue Coal Corporation, which had declared bankruptcy in the mid-1970s. Generally located to the west of Wilkes-Barre, many of the 16,500 acres situated among the small towns and boroughs have been ignored, the mine-scarred land seen only as permanent eyesores and reminders of the past. EC, however, views them as an opportunity for transformation, growth, and progress. After obtaining $14 million in grants and an additional $2 million in private loans, EC purchased the Blue Coal lands in 1994. The vision then, as it is now, is to lead our communities in the reclamation of mine-scarred lands and streams, returning strong economic, environmental, and social value to the region by creating a well-planned vibrant valley, protected by green ridgetops.

EC is committed to the reclamation and return of these 16,500 acres to the region. To this end, EC
1. Develops sustainable land-use plans;
2. Commits to provide 10,000 acres for recreation and open space;
3. Leads reclamation efforts of mine-scarred lands and water resources, and guides their reutilization;
4. Funds its work through the sale of EC lands and other resources, and through public and private sector partners;
5. Partners with local communities to achieve our mission; and
6. Educates the community-at-large on environmental issues, the benefits of reclamation, and effective land-use planning.

EC has extensive experience in planning, managing, and completing large federal, state, and private grants, including 24 grants from nine federal agencies, with project costs exceeding $15.1 million. Its organizational structure supports this. EC’s 12-member, all-volunteer Board of Directors provides strategic governance, policy recommendations, fiscal guidance, and outcome reviews. Day-to-day operations are performed by EC’s core staff, a team committed to EC’s mission and well-equipped to handle project requirements.

Over the past 25 years, EC has made significant progress in improving the region's environment, economy, and quality of life. This has included completing 10 land use plans and feasibility studies; reclamation of 2,000 mine-scarred acres; construction of three AMD treatment systems; and preservation of 8,000 acres for recreation/greenspace (which includes three trail systems). EC also participates in environmental outreach initiatives, oversees a environmental workforce training program, hosts a community garden, and runs a large-scale composting facility for country residents. EC's projects have earned federal, state, and local awards, including eight Pennsylvania Governor’s Awards for Environmental Excellence. All of this work will continue in order to achieve EC’s overarching plan, one that seeks a more livable community now, and clears the way for positive, progressive change for future generations.