The Friends of the Wissahickon was founded in 1924 when a small group of local citizens came together to restore Wissahickon Valley Park in Philadelphia after a winter storm destroyed over 200 trees.

Through civic responsibility and environmental activism, they established a mission “to conserve the natural beauty and wildness of the Wissahickon Valley and stimulate public interest therein.”

FOW has remained steadfast in carrying out this stewardship mission as it marks its centennial this year.

The organization has become an active network of more than 3,000 members, volunteers, neighbors, and corporate and civic partners that bring resources to projects, help amplify FOW’s voice in advocacy, and provide critical financial support.

“What is extraordinary is the model of the public-private stewardship of parks we’ve pursued was not the norm 100 years ago but has become standard practice throughout the country,” said Ruffian Tittmann, FOW’s executive director. “It has enabled us to grow and evolve with the changes and needs of the park and the community.”

With the increasing challenges of climate change, pollution, and more than two million visitors annually, conserving the natural beauty and diverse habitat of the Wissahickon’s 2,000-acre urban forest and 50+ miles of trails today means developing critical infrastructure, managing stormwater runoff, improving visitors’ experiences, and engaging with the community through education and outreach.

FOW will be undertaking its most ambitious scope of work to date in 2024 with a full slate of trail projects, capital improvements, restoration efforts, and public programming.

With the theme of “100 years of conservation,” FOW is planning a full year of celebratory projects and events to commemorate past achievements while looking forward to the next century, and sharing it all with those whose support and love for the Wissahickon has made FOW’s significant impact possible.

Thank you to early Gala sponsors Iron Stone Real Estate Partners and Manko Gold Katcher & Fox LLP.

100 Years Of Conservation Events

To find out more about sponsorship opportunities, celebration events, how to participate and learn more about what FOW has achieved over the last 100 years and what we're planning for the next century, visit the FOW’s 100 Years Of Conservation webpage.

Visit the Friends of the Wissahickon website to learn more about programs, initiatives, upcoming events and how you can get involved.

Related Articles:

-- Friends Of The Wissahickon Celebrate 100 Years Of Stewardship With Special Events In 2024  [PaEN]

-- WeConservePA: Whitemarsh Twp. And Community Conserve 51 Acres Connected To Other Public Lands In Montgomery County

-- ClearWater Conservancy Conserves Colerain Center Property In Huntingdon County  [PaEN]

-- Willistown Conservation Trust Acquires 5.6 Acre Watson Easement In Delaware County  [PaEN]

[Posted: February 1, 2024]

2/5/2024