Conserve Our Community > Managing Our Land

Managing Our Land

At York Land Trust, we are committed to caring for our natural spaces for generations to come. Through a mix of active and passive management, we ensure that our preserves remain healthy, diverse, and accessible while protecting critical habitats. 

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How We Steward the Land 

Long-Term Care & Conservation 

When YLT acquires a property, we develop a management plan based on scientific research, ecological needs, and community input. This plan determines: 

  • Whether the land will have public or limited access 
  • Strategies for habitat restoration and protection 
  • Plans for trail development and visitor access 

Some areas remain undisturbed to protect sensitive ecosystems, while others require active management to maintain biodiversity and sustainability. 

Sustainable Forestry & Timber Harvesting 

Some forests require careful management to return to health and remain healthy. This requires creating targeted disturbances in the overstory to make space for new growth. Occasionally, YLT will conduct a sustainable timber harvest to: 

  • Foster age and species diversity  
  • Improve climate resiliency 
  • Enhance wildlife habitat 

All forestry work is done under the guidance of a licensed forester with extensive experience in conservation forestry, ensuring it aligns with conservation goals for the property. Proceeds from timber sales are reinvested into land stewardship. Learn more.

Managing Invasive Species 

Invasive plants threaten native ecosystems by outcompeting local plant species, degrading habitat value for wildlife and altering soils. YLT uses a variety of methods to control these species, including: 

  • Manual removal (often with volunteer help) 
  • Biocontrol measures (using predators of invasive species to manage their population) 
  • Targeted herbicide application (only when necessary, by licensed professionals) 

By managing invasive species, we help native plants and wildlife thrive. For more information, read our Invasive Species FAQ. 

Trails & Public Access 

While YLT owns large parcels of land, not all properties are managed for public access. We carefully evaluate: 

  • Trail suitability based on terrain & habitat sensitivity 
  • Access to roads & parking availability 
  • Ensuring Safe & Sustainable Public Access 

Currently, we maintain seven public preserves with marked trails and infrastructure and parking. We manage our other lands primarily to restore and protect their ecological value. Find trail maps & access info for our public preserves here. 

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Keeping Our Land Healthy Together 

Our stewardship efforts depend on community involvement! Whether through volunteering, reporting trail issues, or supporting conservation programs, you can help us keep YLT preserves thriving. 

Spotted a fallen tree or trail damage? Submit a Trail Issue Report. 

Want to volunteer? Check out our Events Page.