6 days ago
Earth Conservancy secures $6.7M grant for land reclamation and park development
May 28—HANOVER TWP. — A former strip mine once used for debris disposal from Hurricane Agnes in 1972 will be transformed into a vibrant community park, thanks to a $6.7 million grant from the PA Department of Environmental Protection, Terry Ostrowski, president/CEO at Earth Conservancy, announced Wednesday.
Ostrowski said Earth Conservancy will use the grant to reclaim its 30-acre Hanover 7A site and transform it into a new community park serving the Lower South Valley.
Funded through DEP's highly-competitive Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program, Ostrowski said the project highlights the power of partnerships in returning long-abandoned mine lands into valuable community assets — promoting both economic growth and environmental renewal.
Located in Hanover Township directly off State Route 29, Ostrowski said the site's accessibility makes it especially well-positioned to serve as a regional hub for outdoor recreation and community engagement.
"Earth Conservancy is incredibly grateful for the continued support from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, as well as from our local representatives," Ostrowski said. "The site's accessibility and size make it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. We genuinely believe it will not only provide a wonderful resource for residents, but also attract regional athletic tournaments, boosting our economy and fostering community engagement."
Project overview
Ostrowski said the history of Hanover 7A (H7A) is like many mine-scarred properties in EC's portfolio. Once owned by the Glen Alden Coal Company, the land was heavily strip-mined and left unrestored, with large open pits dominating the landscape. Its condition worsened after the Agnes Flood in 1972, when Pennsylvania designated non-operating strip mine sites — including 38 acres of H7A — for disposal of storm debris.
Following Glen Alden bankruptcy in the mid-1970s, Ostrowski said the land remained neglected until EC acquired it in 1994. At that time, he said no formal closure had occurred. EC worked with a range of agencies and community partners, including DEP, to evaluate and reclaim the 48-acre parcel.
Basic reclamation, including capping and grading, was completed in 2006. The site sat idle until 2019, when 18 acres were sold to a local developer, which became the new home of the Pennsylvania State Police Troop P barracks and training facility.
In January 2020, Ostrowski said EC convened a group of local stakeholders — including municipal leaders, elected officials, and representatives from area schools, colleges, and businesses — to discuss the site's potential.
"The response was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees envisioning the land becoming a focal point for community recreation and engagement," Ostrowski said.
In response, EC applied for and received a Community Conservation Partnership Program (C2P2) grant from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in 2021. Ostrowski said the funding supported site assessments, community outreach, and planning. Importantly, Ostrowski said the study confirmed that any reuse of the site — even for passive recreation — would require further reclamation.
To continue progress, Ostrowski said EC applied to DEP for funding through the AMLER Program in 2023.
In May 2025, Ostrowski said EC was awarded a $6.7 million AMLER grant to complete the next phase of the project. He said work will include bulk earthwork, grading, and subsurface stabilization; installation of basic utilities and parking areas; site revegetation; and construction of initial park amenities, including grass fields, a walking trail, and an inclusive playground.
"Once complete, the H7A project will mark a significant milestone in EC's mission to foster environmental restoration, economic development, and improved quality of life in the region," Ostrowski said. "The transformation of this long-neglected site into a vibrant community space will expand green infrastructure, enhance outdoor recreational opportunities, and serve as a valuable resource for local schools and residents. Additionally, the project lays the groundwork for future phases of development, supporting a healthier, safer, and more connected Lower South Valley."
Legislators offer comment
Sen. Lisa Baker, R-Lehman Township, said the project represents a terrific combination of conservation and recreation.
"We are fortunate to have a local group like the Earth Conservancy with the vision and energy to assemble and carry out a plan that contributes to the physical and mental health of area residents," Sen. Baker said. "This opens opportunities for those of all ages to enjoy the outdoors."
Rep. Alec Ryncavage, R-Hanover Township, said the project marks a transformative investment for Hanover Township and the entire region.
"Reclaiming abandoned mine land and turning it into a vibrant public space will not only improve our environment, but also create new recreational opportunities for families and support ongoing economic development," Rep. Ryncavage said. "I was proud to support this project and look forward to seeing it come to life."
Hanover Township Manager Sam Guesto said the township is grateful to the Earth Conservancy for securing these funds for a large recreation park.
"This park will benefit the community and region — fostering health, unity, and vibrant connections that enrich lives," Guesto said. "The township looks forward to supporting this very important project."
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Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
