Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Michael DiBerardinis and Philadelphia Eagles owner Christina Lurie this week cut the ribbon on Eagles Forest, a 6.5-acre site at Neshaminy State Park in Bensalem, Bucks County, to help offset the team's carbon footprint, restore wildlife habitat and enhance public recreation areas.

This spring, volunteers and state park staff planted 1,200 trees and shrubs in Eagles Forest, including 58 trees that were purchased by Eagles fans.

"Forests score big in promoting physical and mental health for people," Secretary DiBerardinis said. "Not only will visitors benefit from the beauty of the new forest at Neshaminy State Park, but a trail that winds through the area and four attractive new interpretive signs will help them understand the benefits of trees, and how our personal actions affect our environment."

Secretary DiBerardinis said the tree plantings also are a part of the TreeVitalize initiative to restore tree cover in the southeastern part of the state. From the edge of the forest, visitors can see the Philadelphia skyline.

Eagles Forest is one example of the team's commitment through its GO GREEN initiative to better the planet through responsible business practices. The GO GREEN program, launched in 2003, incorporates green initiatives, sustainable business practices and educational outreach as core operating principals of the Philadelphia Eagles.

"The Eagles Forest is another opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint and involve our fans in taking steps to reduce their impact on and improve our planet," said Lurie. "We appreciate the support that DCNR has provided to make this forest a reality."

Two of the acres within Eagles Forest were planted in partnership with The Conservation Fund's Go ZeroSM program to offset the carbon emissions that resulted from the team's away-game air travel during the 2007 season. Dubbed the "Go Zero Grove," the 870 native seedlings planted here will trap 565 tons of carbon dioxide over their lifetime.

Additional plans for Eagles Forest include the team's commitment to continue planting trees to help offset its carbon footprint. Eagles' corporate partner Pulte Homes recently announced a $5,000 donation to help achieve this goal. At least 200 trees will be planted in the forest this fall.

Among the native trees and shrubs planted at the park are Redbud, Red Oak, Willow Oak, Sugar Maple, Black Gum, Sycamore, Swamp White Oak, Flowering Dogwood, Viburnum, Red Maple, Serviceberry and Sweet Gum.

Neshaminy is a 330-acre state park along the Delaware River that includes a slip marina, fishing access to the river, hiking trails, picnic facilities, boat launching ramps and a large swimming pool with spray water features. The park gets approximately 250,000 visitors annually.

5/2/2008