New PWREN Program Makes Forest Stewardship Financially Feasible
If you joined us at the Fall 2025 Confluence, you already know this fundamental truth: clean water doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s the result of thriving ecosystems where every element—from the smallest insect to the tallest tree—plays a vital role.
You want to help create or maintain a healthy ecosystem on your property. You understand that healthy forests mean cleaner streams, better wildlife habitat, and more resilient watersheds. But let’s be honest—good stewardship costs money.
Here’s some genuinely exciting news: there’s now serious funding available to help.
Enter PWREN: Your Forest’s New Best Friend
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) recently launched the PA Woodland Resilience Enhancement Network (PWREN) in partnership with the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay. This first-of-its-kind program in the Commonwealth puts real money behind forest health—up to $25,000 per landowner.
Think about that for a moment. The forest management practices you’ve been putting off because of cost? The invasive species removal you know needs to happen? The wildlife habitat improvements you’ve been dreaming about? They’re now within reach.
Why This Matters for Water Quality
Here’s what makes this program brilliant: it recognizes that Pennsylvania’s forests and watersheds are inseparable. With more than 70% of Pennsylvania’s forests in private ownership, what happens on private land directly impacts our streams and rivers.
When forests are healthy and resilient, they:
- Filter stormwater naturally, reducing runoff pollution
- Prevent erosion that muddies streams
- Keep water temperatures cool for aquatic life
- Support the insects and wildlife that indicate ecosystem health
- Store carbon and moderate local climate extremes
Every dollar invested in forest health is a dollar invested in water quality.
What PWREN Actually Funds
This isn’t just another government program with impossible requirements. PWREN reimburses landowners for practical forest management activities that make a real difference:
- Invasive species control – Remove the plants choking out native forest
- Wildlife habitat improvement – Create homes for pollinators and forest creatures
- Forest stand improvement – Thin overcrowded areas to promote healthy growth
- Riparian buffer establishment – Protect stream corridors
- Climate resilience practices – Help forests handle extreme weather
- Pest and disease management – Protect against emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, and other threats
The $5 million program, funded by the U.S. Forest Service, doesn’t just throw money at the problem—it provides technical expertise and connects you with peer networks of other forest landowners facing similar challenges.
How to Get Your Share
The process is refreshingly straightforward:
- Contact Your Local DCNR Service Forester
Find yours at DCNR’s website. They’re the gateway to the program. - Get a Free Site Visit
Your service forester will walk your property with you—at no cost—to assess opportunities and challenges. - Receive Personalized Recommendations
Based on your land’s specific needs, they’ll recommend practices that qualify for reimbursement. - Submit Your Application
Your forester will help you complete the PWREN application. No need to navigate bureaucracy alone. - Work with the Alliance
The Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay reviews applications and works with DCNR to implement approved projects. - Get Reimbursed
Complete approved practices and receive reimbursement up to $25,000.
Who Should Apply?
If you own forested land in Pennsylvania—whether it’s 5 acres or 500—you’re potentially eligible. The program is especially valuable for:
- Landowners along streams and rivers
- Properties with invasive species problems
- Forests showing stress from pests or disease
- Woodlands needing thinning or improvement
- Anyone wanting to enhance wildlife habitat
- Landowners interested in climate resilience
The Bigger Picture
Remember, this isn’t just about your individual property. When you strengthen your forest, you’re contributing to a landscape-level solution. Your healthier forest connects with your neighbor’s woodlands, creating corridors for wildlife, cleaner air, and most importantly—cleaner water flowing into our streams and rivers.
As we discussed at the Confluence, healthy ecosystems create clean water. PWREN gives you the financial tools to be part of that solution.
Don’t Wait
Programs like this don’t last forever. With $5 million available statewide and reimbursements up to $25,000 per landowner, funding will go fast. Forward-thinking landowners who act now will get the support they need to create more resilient forests.
Plus, with climate change accelerating and new pests constantly emerging, there’s never been a more critical time to strengthen our forests’ defenses.
Take Action Today
- Find your DCNR Service Forester: Visit DCNR’s Service Forester Directory
- Schedule your free site visit: Call or email to get on their calendar
- Start planning: Think about your forest’s biggest challenges
- Connect with peers: Join local woodland owner associations for support
Your forest is more than trees—it’s a water filter, a carbon sink, a wildlife sanctuary, and a legacy for future generations. Now, thanks to PWREN, maintaining it doesn’t have to drain your bank account.
Questions?
For more information about PWREN:
- Contact your local DCNR Service Forester
- Visit DCNR’s PWREN page
- Reach out to the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay
For watershed and forest connection resources:
- Contact H2O Water Network: john@H2Owaternetwork.org
- Visit h2owaternetwork.org
Remember: Every healthy forest creates cleaner water downstream. When you invest in your woodland, you’re investing in Pennsylvania’s water future.Ready to strengthen your forest and protect our watersheds? Contact your DCNR Service Forester today and ask about PWREN funding. Your trees—and your streams—will thank you.
