Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden for Climate Resilience

As the climate crisis intensifies, sequestration of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide becomes more urgent. In 2018,the Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources released the “Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Plan,” which confirms that temperatures are rising and rain events are more frequent and intense. In accordance with the plan, Stoneleigh features tree species that are resilient to climate change and native perennials that enhance biodiversity.

Municipal codes often include tree-replacement standards and requirements for street trees and commercial landscaping. Native plants should be encouraged in codes and municipalities should maintain lists of native plant species that will survive the regional impacts of climate change. View Stoneleigh’s native plants and learn how to incorporate planting requirements into zoning and subdivision codes.

Natural Lands is committed to creating outdoor opportunities for all. Stoneleigh, once a private residence, is now open to the public, free of charge, and accessible via public transportation.

Attendees walk during the workshop.