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On April 6, the Delaware Highlands Conservancy’s beloved founder, Barbara Yeaman, passed away at the age of 100. Driven by a goal to protect the clean, clear waters of the Delaware River, Barbara founded the Conservancy in 1994 at age 70. Her own property along the river in Milanville, PA became one of the Conservancy’s first conservation easements, setting a lasting example for land stewardship.

Together with her partner, Ed Wesely, Barbara welcomed thousands to their land over the years for joyful Meadow Parties, educational visits to the Butterfly Barn to learn about monarch butterflies, and countless conversations that nurtured a deep love for conservation. Guided by her vision, the Conservancy has flourished, protecting more than 19,000 acres on both sides of the Delaware River in Pennsylvania and New York.

Throughout her life, Barbara was honored with numerous awards, including the Lifetime Conservation Achievement Award from the Pennsylvania Land Trust Association, the Environmental Partnership Award from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, and the Ralph W. Abele Conservation Heritage Award from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

Barbara’s legacy is one of kindness, compassion, and fierce determination. She motivated all who knew her to care for the natural world, and her legacy will continue to guide and inspire us for generations to come.

Celebration of Life

The Yeaman family, together with the Board of Directors and staff of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, cordially invite you to attend a Celebration of Life honoring Barbara Yeaman on Saturday, June 21 from 11am-1pm at the Conservancy’s Van Scott Nature Reserve.
The day will include a dedication ceremony for Barbara’s Bench, located along the Butterfly Trail in the wildflower meadow overlooking the Reserve. Family and friends will offer remarks in celebration of Barbara’s long life of service and the legacy of her dedication to our treasured Delaware Highlands.

A reception with light refreshments will follow in the covered pavilion. Guests are welcome to share memories of Barbara during this time.

Please RSVP to Samantha Mango, Samantha@DelawareHighlands.org or by phone at 570-226-3164 ext. 9.

The Van Scott Nature Reserve is located at 571 Perkins Pond Rd, Beach Lake, PA, 18405. Contributions in Barbara’s memory may be made to the Delaware Highlands Conservancy at the address above or online, and will support the Barbara Yeaman Fund for Land Conservation.

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Here is a selection of wonderful articles and interviews that highlight her inspiring journey and lasting impact.

Founder’s Message – A note written by Barbara Yeaman about her decision to create the Delaware Highlands Conservancy

A Beloved Heroine Turns 100 – by Sandy Long, The River Reporter

Giving Thanks to Barbara Yeaman, Local Land Conservancy Pioneer – WJFF Radio Catskill interview with Barbara

Protecting the Highlands – a video interview with Barbara (YouTube)

Goodbye, Buttercup – by Sandy Long, The River Reporter