LERC Hunting Policy
Most Lake Erie Region Conservancy (LERC) properties are located in residential settings and are of insufficient size to permit responsible hunting. However, three LERC properties have been deemed suitable for hunting under certain conditions and restrictions. All hunters using these approved properties must comply with all Pennsylvania and Federal game laws and regulations.
The use of portable tree stands is permitted, however they must be conspicuously marked with a durable and legible identification tag that includes the hunter’s first and last name, and legal address. The hunter cannot cause damage to a tree or other property while erecting, using or removing a tree stand. Tree stands must be removed each day.
In order to be good neighbors and foster positive relationships with nearby residents, it is imperative that hunters pay special attention to safety zones, and be courteous and respectful of other users. LERC encourages the public to pursue clean outdoor activities on its properties throughout the year, therefore no one should expect that they will be the sole user. LERC requests all entrails from harvested animals be removed from well used trails and covered with natural debris. Please help LERC keep its properties clean by following the pack-it-in/pack-it-out motto.
The 3 properties open to hunting are:
West Road (ARCHERY ONLY--recent change due to proximity of neighbors)
Peffer Road
Shannon Road (ARCHERY ONLY)
Note: LERC properties are not open to trapping.
West Road Property
This 47-acre property was purchased by LERC in 2008 using grant money from DCNR and PFBC. It straddles Elk Creek and allows great access to fishing. It has a field with trees planted by LERC and trails leading down to the creek. The property on the other side of the creek is a beautiful natural wooded setting.
Peffer Road Property
This 46-acre property was acquired in 2010 and is adjacent to McKean Township property both of which are part of a master trail system plan as approved by the township. It is bounded by Elk Creek and will have access points for fishing, trails for walking, and overlook points for viewing the geographic features within.
Shannon Rd Conservation Area
42 acres of woodlands In Harborcreek Township, PA.
There are 6 easements totaling 171 acres held by LERC.
Five of the easements are on private properties in Fairview, Harborcreek, and Greene
Townships.
The 6th easement is at the Battles Farm in Girard Borough and Township and
is open to the public.
Assisted Acquisitions - LERC has assisted with the transfer of 9 properties to state agencies and local municipalities totaling 1,346 acres. The most significant of these are:
Lake Erie Bluffs
Originally 540 acres along the Lake Erie shoreline, this truly stunning piece of property was what inspired the creation of Lake Erie Region Conservancy. LERC helped bring together the parties that eventually turned this property into a Pennsylvania state park, which now includes the mouth of Elk Creek for a total of 621 acres of beautiful woods boasting an important and unique ecology for this area.
Avonia Beach Park
LERC helped facilitate the purchase of this lakefront property in Fairview Township
Game Lands 314
LERC applied to and received funding from eight separate sources in order to acquire this 85.1 acre tract from the Jenks family. It was transferred to the PA Game Commission and is now part of Game Lands 314
Erie Golf Club
LERC went to court to prevent this 175 acre golf course with over 2,000 feet bordering Walnut Creek from becoming another subdivision. It is now owned by Millcreek Township.
Gilmore Farm (part)
This 179.8 acre tract of land located on Beckman Road in Girard Township includes an amazing 6,325 ft. stretch of the Elk Creek gorge. LERC acquired this property in December 2019 using PFBC and PA DCNR funding. The property was transferred to the PFBC.
Battles Farm
LERC acquired a 84.5 acre conservation easement on part of the historic Battles Farm trust property working with the Hagen History Center. The easement was recorded on 07-09-20.
Major Accomplishments
Easements
Battles Farm
Girard Borough and Township
