The CREP-Area

CREP stands for Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program.  This is one of the most romantic and verdant corners of Windswept Farm. Once part of what we called The Meadow and used for sheep grazing, this stretch of land took on a new life in 2010, when it became part of CREP- a forward-thinking collaboration between farmers, conservation groups, and state and federal agencies, aimed at restoring ecosystems and protecting waterways across the country.

 

In late 2009, we applied to the program.  Because the eastern portion of Windswept Farm contains wetlands and natural springs feeding into the headwaters of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay, the land was deemed ecologically significant. The program offered its full support to preserve and enhance this area. In 2010, a dedicated team arrived to begin the transformation. An acre of wetlands was fenced off, and a riparian buffer was established with the planting of hundreds of carefully selected native shrubs and trees. These plants were chosen for their resilience and ecological benefit—creating a thriving habitat while also filtering runoff and safeguarding water quality.
 

Today, this protected area has come into its own. The vegetation has matured beautifully with dense thickets, towering saplings, and vibrant undergrowth creating a sanctuary for wildlife: white tail deer, muskrats, opossums, woodchucks, raccoons, foxes, birds, butterflies, and pollinators. Autumn is especially breathtaking: the leaves blaze in gold and crimson, while the buzzing of insects and flutter of wings animate the crisp air. Two features within this area stand out:

 

Near a sweeping, graceful weeping willow lies the spring - hand-dug by the first inhabitants of the cabin in the mid-1700s. Carefully laid with stone, it descends six feet or more into the earth and once served as the farm’s primary source of fresh water well into the 20th century. An elderly neighbor recalled the children of Windswept dashing to the spring each morning with pails in hand. The spring continues to flow gently, feeding into the pond.

 

Though diminished by recent droughts, the pond still holds its charm. Shaded by trees and adorned with water lilies, its ecosystem has been affected by burrowing wildlife - hence the reference to muskrats! It remains a peaceful spot to sit on a weathered bench and take in the shimmer of golden lilies, the quiet murmur of spring water, and the chorus of frog, bird, and insects.

​

                                                                                                                                                            (image slider)