On March 9, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced the department had awarded a $754,300 grant for a major addition at White Clay Creek Preserve in Chester County.

“White Clay Creek Preserve is integral to providing outdoor recreation opportunities in this community and the region at large, which is why we are pleased to make today’s grant announcement,” Dunn said. “I am grateful for the positive impact this acquisition, and the incredible work being done locally to help protect and expand public lands, will undoubtedly have in the future.

The acquisition of the Martin tract adds 162 acres to White Clay Creek Preserve for additional recreation space.

The 3,050-acre White Clay Creek Preserve is in southern Chester County, three miles north of Newark, Delaware, and possess outstanding scenic, wildlife, recreational, and cultural value.

It has been designated by Congress as a National Wild and Scenic River, and shall be preserved in free-flowing condition for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.

“Elk Township is very happy to receive over $750,000 from DCNR towards the purchase of the 162-acre Martin Tract,” said Melanie Ryan, a member of the Elk Creek Watershed Association and of the Elk township Open Space Board. “This property contains significant woodlands, wildlife habitat, and headwater streams to the Big Elk Creek.  The Martin property is an extension of the Big Elk Section of the White Clay Preserve in southern Chester County.”

Apply Now For Grants

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources 2022 grant application season for Community Conservation Partnership, riparian buffer, land conservation, trails and ATV and snowmobiles is open, including--

-- Community Conservation Partnership Grants. Deadline April 6

-- Riparian Forest Buffer Grants. Deadline April 6

-- ATV & Snowmobile Grants. Deadline March 31

Click Here for more information.

The Commonwealth Financing Authority is accepting applications for these Act 13 drilling impact fee funded programs through May 31-- Watershed Restoration, Greenways, Trails, Recreation, Abandoned Mine Drainage Treatment and more.

Click Here for more information.

Visit the PA Environment Digest’s Grants & Awards webpage for other available financial assistance.

Related Articles:

-- French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust Preserves 111 More Acres In Chester County 

-- WeConservePA: Chestnut Hill Conservancy Celebrates 50th Conservation Easement To Protect Property

[Posted: March 9, 2022]

3/14/2022