The new executive director at Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania is making changes to connect more people with the outdoors.
Chris Bason said that reconfigurations at Buffalo Creek and Succop nature parks will create more opportunity for birding, a passion shared by more than one-third of U.S. adults, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The nature stores at both facilities have closed to make way for more education and rental opportunities.
The Beechwood Farms nature store in Fox Chapel remains open.
“This was a difficult decision, but we wanted to redirect our energy toward mission-aligned activities and programs for families to connect with birds,” said Bason, who took leadership in September.
Work already has begun at the Buffalo Creek Nature Park, which comprises 6 acres along Monroe Road in Buffalo Township. It sits adjacent to the 21.5-mile Buffalo-Freeport Community Trail.
The building, including public restrooms, is closed through Feb. 28 while construction occurs.
Plans for Succop have not been finalized. The 50-acre former farm estate in Penn Township has about 2 miles of trails, two ponds and a barn, originally built in 1883. Programs are held throughout the property.
“From an economic standpoint, and that of our mission, converting these spaces to accommodate outreach will benefit more people,” Bason said.
He cited a shift in recent years, largely since the covid-19 pandemic, that changed how people shop at brick-and-mortar stores. He said that shift contributed to the decision to close the shops.
People who relied on the stores for bird seed and other nature-themed purchases will be able to continue to shop at Beechwood Farms.
Audubon also plans to launch a remote monthly pickup at Succop and Buffalo Creek, as well as an online store.
“We understand our position as a community resource for bird feeding, and we remain ready to support our friends that feed the birds,” Bason said.
In the meantime, the Buffalo Creek Nature Park and Succop are open for outdoor recreation every day of the year, free of charge.
There are community events and hands-on environmental education programs for all ages, including Fly Tying, Maple Madness and Raptor Encounters.
Drawing people to the properties goes a long way in expanding Audubon’s mission, Bason said.
“It helps us reach a larger area, and we’re excited about what we can do with more activities in these spots,” he said.
At Beechwood, leaders are planning expanded offerings for summer camps and are in the process of hiring staff.
“We’re pumped about that,” he said. “They’re always sold out, and adding more sessions to meet demand will get more kids out here enjoying nature.”