Lecture: Pennypack Environmental Issues

Willow Grove Tri-Centennial Event

Leader: Brad Nyholm, Director of Stewardship, Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust

Flooding and stream pollution are not new along Pennypack Creek and its tributaries. At one time, 23 water powered mills lined the banks of the Pennypack from its source in Maple Glen to its mouth in Holmesburg. Among other factors that led to the demise of the mill economy were flooding and siltation caused by the deforestation of the watershed for agriculture and the subsequent erosion of the soil. While the mills are long gone, similar problems remain now that suburban development has replaced agriculture. In addition, the landscape is challenged with new problems including the proliferation of non-native plants introduced by horticulturists and an ever-expanding population of white-tailed deer. This walk along the Pennypack Preserve’s trails will explore the impacts of flooding, stream erosion, sedimentation, invasive plants and deer. The trail system consists of dirt trails traversing a gently rolling landscape, but participants will descend to Pennypack Creek and will need to walk up a long, steep hill on a rough trail at the end of the program.

Reservations are recommended, in order to reserve a place on the walk, it is suggested that you call Lauren at the Penneypack at 215-657-0830 and register for the walk.