Franklin & Marshall College

The Wohlsen family has formed a partnership in order to take advantage of the College's considerable experience, scientific knowledge, and management resources. F&M will be able to preserve and care for this wonderful site for many generations while maintaining the Conservancy's important role in the community.

Isn't Franklin and Marshall going to build and develop the site?
No. The college is committed to maintaining the conservancy in its natural state.

What are the activities of the Conservancy?
The activities may include, but are not limited to: maintaining the existing buildings as well as the land and waters which serve as a sanctuary for its native flora and fauna; the use of the Conservancy for educational activities; the use of the Conservancy for environmental and other related research; providing educational programs and special events promoting environmental awareness for other educational and nonprofit organizations located in Lancaster County; access to the Conservancy by members of the community granted permission; funding environmental research programs and grants undertaken by the College and other nonprofit and governmental organizations; securing grants and contributions to support the Conservancy's programs; acquiring and preserving neighboring properties; implementing programs for soil erosion control and stream management; and encouraging the propagation of wildlife and waterfowl in the area by planting, installing, and maintaining appropriate nesting areas.

Who can use the Conservancy?
Dues-paying members may use the Conservancy, as well as groups granted permission to use it. Fishermen with Trout Unlimited fishing badges may use the grounds for catch and release fishing. Franklin and Marshall College classes will have access if they have scheduled the trip in advance. Members of the college community may visit the conservancy at any time with their college ID card and window sticker. Certain Conservancy facilities can be rented by outside groups on a for-pay basis.

I have been fishing at Millport for years. Can I still do so?
Yes, as long as you are a Trout Unlimited or Millport member with a fishing badge. The Donegal chapter of Trout Unlimited sells yearly fishing badges.

Can I rent the mill for a party or wedding?
Yes. The mill can be rented for weddings, parties, seminars, retreats, etc. subject to availability. Call the Conservancy at 717-626-0414 for information.

Do I need a pass on conservancy grounds?
Yes. Dues-paying members should have their membership cards and/or fishing badges. Franklin & Marshall College students or employees must have their college ID cards on a lanyard and a Franklin and Marshall College sticker on the windshield of their car.

How can I join Millport Conservancy?
You can call 717-626-0414 or visit the membership page here. Mail inquiries can be sent to Millport Conservancy, 737 East Millport Road, Lititz, PA. 17543.

Is there a user fee for the Conservancy's land and trails?
There is no user fee for members of the Franklin and Marshall students or employees. Others are able to purchase Millport memberships. Note that mill rentals do involve a fee, however.

Who maintains the Conservancy?
The Conservancy is maintained by the Conservancy and Franklin and Marshall College and individuals with contracts from the College and the Conservancy. Volunteer groups also work on special projects at the site.

How is the Conservancy funded?
Funding comes from Wohlsen family gifts, membership dues, grants, and donations. In addition, Franklin and Marshall is currently in the planning process for implementing long-term funding.

Where is it located?
The address is 737 East Millport Road, Lititz, PA 17543. It is located along East Millport and Warwick Roads in Warwick Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. See the contact information page for details and  a map fordirections.

What is the role of the Conservancy?
The roles of the Conservancy are education, research, and preservation of the natural beauty and integrity of the area for future generations.

What can visitors expect to see?
The restored Lititz Run stream is the cornerstone of the property. You will also see wetlands, ponds, riparian habitats, croplands, hardwood and coniferous forests, meadows, as well as the old mill and its raceway. Many species of birds and mammals are present, too.

Are volunteer opportunities available?
Yes. A great way to get involved is by working with the Donegal Chapter of Trout Unlimited. Trout Unlimited and other volunteers have done a tremendous amount of work at Millport. They conduct an annual Spring Cleanup, for example. See the website at www.donegaltu.org. You can also call the Conservancy, visit its website, or contact the Lititz Run Watershed Association.

Where should I park at Millport?
Visitors should park in the grass field along Millport Road
and not in the driveway.

Who owns the land?
The land is owned by the non-profit Millport Conservancy.

How is the Conservancy governed?
A seven-member board, two of whom are nominated by the Wohlsen family and five of whom are nominated by Franklin and Marshall College, governs the Conservancy. Franklin and Marshall employs a Millport Liaison, and the Wohlsen family continues to work at Millport.