Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Environment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Nisham Watershed and EAC propose 100‑tree green infrastructure project at Ben Wilson Community Center
Summary
The EAC and Nisham Watershed Association presented a no‑cost tree‑planting proposal for the Ben Wilson Community Center parcel to capture stormwater and expand canopy (initial goal ~100 native trees), paid for and maintained largely by the watershed association and volunteers.
The Environmental Advisory Council and the Nisham Watershed Association asked the board to endorse a green infrastructure planting project on township land near the Ben Wilson Community Center and Senior Center.
John McGee, chair of the EAC, introduced the project and Ken Jones, president of the Nisham Watershed Association, said the association received a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (as part of watershed funding) to supply trees, materials and volunteer coordination. The plan calls for planting a mix of native, water‑tolerant canopy trees, smaller understory trees and shrubs to slow and retain stormwater before it reaches downstream basins.
Jones described a planting design that would provide an aesthetic transition from shorter plants near the road to canopy trees nearer the interior and emphasized coordination with public‑works staff to avoid utilities and sight‑line obstructions. The association said it will bring volunteers, materials and tree‑protection, and that the township would not be required to provide funding for the initial plantings.
The EAC encouraged resident participation and noted the planting events would also count as public participation for stormwater‑fee credit programs. Board members expressed support, and the presenters invited questions about scope and future expansion.
Ending: The board heard the proposal and indicated support for working with the EAC and watershed association; project timing and volunteer coordination will be arranged with township staff.
