McCandless Takes Flight

McCandless has earned Bird Town Pennsylvania’s 96th designation, recognizing the community’s ongoing commitment to conservation, sustainability and creating a healthier environment for people and wildlife.

McCandless has earned a new distinction—and this one has wings. It has officially been named Pennsylvania’s 96th Bird Town—joining a growing network of communities working to create healthier, more sustainable environments for birds, wildlife and people.

For McCandless, the designation recognizes work that has already been happening throughout the town while opening the door for even more conservation efforts in the years ahead.

“McCandless is proud to be named a Bird Town, and we are excited to be part of a network of other municipalities with similar environmental stewardship priorities,” says Lizz Venanzi, McCandless’ community engagement manager.

Bird Town Pennsylvania works in partnership with local municipalities to encourage community-based conservation actions. The goal goes well beyond simply providing a place for birds to live. By protecting habitats and promoting wildlife-friendly practices, communities can also improve the environment for the people who live there.

McCandless was recertified in 2026 as a Sustainable PA Gold Standard Community—another recognition that aligns closely with the goals of Bird Town Pennsylvania. Many of the actions that helped it earn that designation also supported the efforts to become a Bird Town.

Town Council, the Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) and residents have all played a role in that work. McCandless has adopted environmental proclamations, resolutions and ordinances addressing issues such as stormwater management, deer population control, recycling, timber harvesting, outdoor lighting, wetlands and landscaping. A planting guide and ongoing efforts toward long-term tree preservation and restoration add to the community’s environmental efforts.

Other initiatives include an environmental speaker series, native gardening education and invasive species removal. Together, the programs are helping residents better understand how everyday choices can affect the wildlife and natural resources around them.

That connection is one of the reasons the Bird Town designation is so meaningful. A garden designed to attract bees and butterflies can also provide food for birds. Native trees and shrubs can offer shelter for wildlife while improving a neighborhood’s landscape. Cleaner streams, healthier air, thoughtful deer management and better habitat all contribute to a healthier place for people, too.

“Bird Town initiatives advocate bird and habitat awareness, education, participation and knowledge for all ages, and equal access to nature,” says Venanzi.

The achievements are truly made possible through community involvement. North Allegheny School District, residents, Scout troops, local clubs and organizations all contribute to McCandless’ environmental goals. The EAC continues to build its volunteer base through community outreach and networking, creating more opportunities for residents of all ages to get involved.

One upcoming opportunity will be the Backyard Habitat Certification program, which will encourage residents to create wildlife-friendly spaces right in their own yards. By incorporating native plants and providing food and shelter for wildlife, individual homeowners can help create a larger network of habitat throughout the community.

It’s a fitting example of how the Bird Town program brings conservation down to a neighborhood level. Residents don’t need to own a large property or spend hours in the woods to make a difference. A backyard garden, a native tree or a decision to remove an invasive plant can all become part of a larger effort.

For McCandless, earning the Bird Town designation isn’t a finish line. Leaders plan to continue the current programs, expand environmental initiatives and develop new opportunities for residents to participate. The town will also work toward the Gold Bird Town designation.

McCandless “believes that achieving the Green Bird Town designation, and working vigorously towards the Gold designation, is still only the beginning of our commitment,” says Venanzi.

While birds may be at the heart of the designation, the benefits reach throughout the community. More native plants, preserved trees, healthier streams, improved habitats and greater opportunities to connect with nature all contribute to the kind of community McCandless hopes to build.

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