County reviews two DNR Rural Legacy requests including 185.8-acre purchase near Allegheny College

Chair (S1) notified commissioners of two Rural Legacy program requests from the Department of Natural Resources: one conservation easement on Ruby Road (noted to include forest interior dwelling species habitat within the Green Ridge important bird area) and one outright purchase of roughly 185.8 acres on Christie Road adjacent to Cumberland Country Club and Allegheny College. "It's 200 and DNR wants to acquire a 185.8 acres," Chair (S1) said while reviewing the map and parcel details.

Chair (S1) explained that state code requires commissioner approval for acquisitions over 100 acres and that staff plan to bring formal action items to a future meeting. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about taxes (owners retain taxes under an easement) and development limits; staff said most parcels are not located in developable areas and recommended both actions proceed to formal consideration.