Land Use Policy

When a property is acquired, the Board seeks to determine how the local community is using the land, identifying those activities that are consistent with HOLT's goals, and those that are not. A management plan is developed that identifies any particular problem areas and defines appropriate uses.

The HOLT properties are managed as conservation areas, and all plants and animals found there are protected unless specific written approval is received in advance from the Land Steward identified at the bottom of the description for each property. Management plans generally allow low-impact recreational uses such as cross-country skiing and hiking but not activities that could cause significant degradation, such as motorized vehicles. Year-round recreational enjoyment and use by people of all ages, with minimum negative impact, is a goal. Those on the property are asked to wear low-impact shoes, such as soft-soled hiking shoes, to help minimize erosion, and to stay on the extensive system of trails rather than impacting undisturbed areas.

HOLT properties generally are available for scientific studies and visits by school classes studying nature. Prior approval for these activities must be requested in writing by the responsible individual. For further information, contact the HOLT office.

Those visiting HOLT properties should be aware that these are natural areas, with all the inherent dangers of deer ticks, snakes, poison ivy, steep slopes, and other hazards commonly found in western Allegheny County. HOLT assumes no responsibility for any accident or illness that may result from a visit by any individual to any HOLT property.