About Hollow Oak Land Trust
Mission Statement
Hollow Oak Land Trust protects and connects greenspace for enhanced public access through land acquisition, habitat stewardship, municipal partnerships, and environmental education with a focus on the Pittsburgh International Airport Corridor.
Who We Are
Founded in 1991, Hollow Oak Land Trust is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to preserving the natural character and ecological health of southwestern Pennsylvania. With over 872 acres of conserved land across nine conservation areas, Hollow Oak serves as both a steward of vital wildlife habitat and a leader in sustainable recreation. Our work focuses on the Pittsburgh International Airport Corridor—a rapidly developing region where greenspace protection is essential for community well-being, ecological resilience, and quality of life.
What We Do
Hollow Oak’s approach to conservation is holistic and community-driven. We:
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Protect Land and Waterways – Acquiring high-value greenspace, stream valleys, and headwater forests that safeguard clean air and water while providing habitat for native plants and wildlife.
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Build Sustainable Trails – Designing and maintaining multi-use woodland trails that provide safe, environmentally responsible access for hiking, biking, running, and nature study.
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Foster Stewardship – Engaging hundreds of volunteers each year in trail building, habitat restoration, invasive plant management, tree planting, and water quality monitoring.
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Educate and Inspire – Offering educational programs, guided hikes, school partnerships, and community events that connect people of all ages with the natural world.
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Connect Communities – Leading greenway initiatives that link conservation areas, parks, neighborhoods, and business districts, creating healthier, more connected communities.
How We Achieve Our Vision
To achieve its mission and vision, Hollow Oak mobilizes a diverse network of supporters—volunteers, members, municipalities, and corporate partners—who share a passion for preserving local nature. Our Conservation Rangers and Land Steward Program ensure that trails are safe, habitats are healthy, and public access remains sustainable.
All Hollow Oak conservation areas are open year-round for non-motorized recreation and nature study. Whether you’re a casual walker, a trail runner, a mountain biker, or a birdwatcher, our lands are here for you to enjoy—while also serving as living classrooms and critical wildlife corridors.
Why It Matters
In a time of rapid development and climate change, conserving land in the Airport Corridor isn’t just about protecting beautiful woods and streams—it’s about ensuring long-term resilience for our communities. By safeguarding natural resources, creating outdoor experiences, and linking greenspaces through greenways, Hollow Oak Land Trust helps people live healthier, more connected lives while preserving our shared natural heritage.
Charting Our Path Forward
For more than 30 years, Hollow Oak Land Trust has protected and connected greenspace throughout the Pittsburgh Airport Corridor—preserving natural habitats, creating sustainable trails, and linking communities to nature.
Our 2024–2029 Strategic Plan charts the next chapter of this work. It outlines clear goals to:
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Complete and celebrate the Montour Woods Greenway, a 10-mile trail network connecting parks, neighborhoods, and conservation areas;
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Strengthen our land stewardship and volunteer programs to ensure long-term care of protected lands;
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Prepare for future growth through expanded partnerships, innovative funding, and a new endowment for sustainability; and
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Build the organizational capacity needed to support a thriving, inclusive, and resilient conservation movement.
This plan represents a shared vision shaped by our staff, board, volunteers, and community partners. It’s a roadmap to ensure that Hollow Oak continues to serve as a regional leader in greenway development and suburban conservation for decades to come.
View the 2024–2029 Strategic Plan to see how we’re growing our impact and protecting the places you love.
