Powdermill Nature Reserve

Powdermill Nature Reserve is the Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s premier environmental research center, located in Rector, Pennsylvania. Established in 1956, it was created to advance long-term studies of natural populations and ecological systems in the region. The reserve features diverse habitats across over 1,100 acres, including fields, wetlands, streams, and woodland, providing a unique environment for scientific research and education. It is home to the Richard P. Mellon Avian Research Center, which is renowned for its bird banding, avian research, and wildlife tracking initiatives. Visitors can explore nature trails, participate in workshops, and observe ongoing conservation efforts at the state-of-the-art Nature Center.