A Vision For A Valley

Stretching between the forested flanks of Laurel and Chestnut ridges in Westmoreland County, the Ligonier Valley features rolling farmland, scenic vistas, historic structures, clear streams and the charming town of Ligonier. Since the late 1970s, WPC has been working to conserve the unique character of the valley. WPC’s Mountain Streams project added 9,600 acres of the Roaring Run watershed to Forbes State Forest on the west flank of Laurel Ridge, and more than 5,400 acres of private land have been protected through conservation easements. This long history of conservation success has grown from a shared vision and cooperative spirit between WPC and many landowners in the valley.


Mike Kuzemchak recently began working as the Ligonier Valley Program Coordinator. In this role, Mike expands WPC’s efforts to protect the scenic and natural values in the Ligonier Valley. He will be working closely with the Ligonier community to advance shared protection goals, such as securing easements and identifying opportunities to purchase land and sell to conservation buyers. Additionally, Mike will help forge partnerships to support collaborative efforts that protect the quality of life in the Ligonier Valley.

Mike was previously employed by Indiana County where he worked as project coordinator for the parks department. In this role, Mike gained real estate experience through the acquisition of land for the park system and the development of the county’s rails-to-trails network. He has extensive experience in fundraising, community outreach and environmental education.
Mike looks forward to working with the Ligonier community. Please give him a call if you would like to know more about the future direction of WPC’s efforts. He can be reached at (724) 459-0953 extension 112, or by email at mkuzemchak@paconserve.org.