Sustaining the Heartbeat of the Chesapeake

Chesapeake WILD Program

The series introduces viewers to the Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, which supports coordinated action to improve habitat conditions and ensure equitable access to nature. This video celebrates the 2023 award recipients, highlighting their positive impact on the watershed through innovative and strategic conservation efforts.

PA DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grant Program

This piece showcases the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ efforts to foster vibrant communities through grants for public parks, trails, and conservation projects. It emphasizes the program’s role in sustainable development and community revitalization across Pennsylvania’s diverse landscapes.

Moulton Park Expansion

The video details the Moulton family’s generous donation of 82 acres in Jefferson County, WV, expanding Moulton Park and enhancing recreational opportunities, wildlife habitats, and water quality protection.

Lancaster Conservancy

This features the creation of Mill Creek Falls Nature Preserve, a sanctuary of natural beauty with accessible trails, upland forests, and waterfalls.

Scenic Rivers Land Trust

This video follows the Garman family’s decision to conserve their 130-acre property in Anne Arundel County, MD, preserving vital habitats and forestland.

Elktonia-Carr’s Beach

The video chronicles the rich history of Elktonia-Carr’s Beach in Annapolis, a cultural landmark for African American families during segregation, and the ongoing efforts to preserve this legacy through the Elktonia-Carrs Beach/Moore Property initiative. For more on this story, see this Lightning Update.

ClearWater Conservancy

This video celebrates the proactive conservation of 300 acres of agricultural land in State College, PA, highlighting efforts to protect the Spring Creek Watershed and restore Slab Cabin Run. It showcases how conservation projects can benefit communities in many ways, including clean drinking water.

Evergreen Cemetery

Ongoing initiatives focus on restoring and maintaining the cemetery, which had fallen into disrepair due to neglect and lack of funding. Local organizations and volunteers have rallied to preserve the cemetery, emphasizing its importance as a cultural and historical landmark. Restoration efforts include managing overgrown vegetation, improving water drainage, and promoting native plant species to enhance the ecological health of the area. “Preservation of Evergreen Cemetery” honors the memory of the African American community and their enduring legacy in the region.

The Full Docuseries – The Broader Impact and Value

This series aims to inspire environmental awareness and advocacy by showcasing the success stories of various organizations and individuals working toward land conservation and environmental justice. By documenting these efforts, the project provides a blueprint for engaging communities and promoting environmental stewardship.