On October 11, Allegheny Land Trust announced that it has received a $30,000 grant from The Pittsburgh Foundation for acquisition costs for 35 acres of headwater woodlands in a tributary of Big Sewickley Creek in Bell Acres Borough. 
Named for the road that fronts the property and its topographic character, Beadnell Slopes is comprised mostly of steep, wooded slopes and several tributaries that flow into Big Sewickley Creek. The grant represents 14% of ALT’s fundraising needs for the property.
“This grant gets us closer to acquiring more green space with documented natural qualities that can sequester rainwater to prevent flooding in downstream communities in the lower section of Big Sewickley Creek, prevent landslides, and protect the water quality of the watershed,” said Vice President of Land Protection Roy Kraynyk.
The property is adjacent to 200 acres owned by Bell Acres, and is located within the Camp Meeting Woods Biological Diversity Area as identified by the Allegheny County Natural Heritage Inventory. Four tributaries begin on the property and meet near a hemlock grove where several hiking trails meander through the property; it is possible to extend these trails into the adjoining protected green space.
In addition to this project, ALT is working on three other projects in Bell Acres and Franklin Park boroughs. each property offers significant benefits to the regions scenic quality, biodiversity, and water quality. The land trust will be engaged in local fundraising efforts for these projects leading up to the year’s end.
Endowment funds held by The Pittsburgh Foundation range from $10,000 to $40 million, created by individuals and organizations with a passion for Pittsburgh and a deep commitment to their community. More than 2,000 individuals, families, and organizations have established funds at the Foundation, which exists in perpetuity–growing each year–to provide an ever-increasing resource to benefit the community.
