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Environmental Advisory Council proposes grant to plant 100 trees in Lodal Creek Park
Summary
The township’s Environmental Advisory Council plans to apply for a Tree Vitalization Grant, in partnership with the Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy, to plant about 100 native trees in three park areas; the township would provide a 20% match (services-in-kind) and accept a 20-year no-cut restriction under the DEP grant agreement.
Chris Husted of the Perkiomen Township Environmental Advisory Council told the Board on Sept. 3 that the EAC is preparing a Tree Vitalization Grant application with the Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy to install about 100 native trees in Lodal Creek Park.
Husted outlined three target planting areas: the grassy strip along Godshall Road to replace invasive shrubs, the picnic/playground area to add shade and slow stormwater runoff, and the eastern grove to augment wildlife habitat while keeping open space for resident use. Husted said planting would occur next year if the grant is awarded.
Under the grant’s terms the township must contribute 20% of project funds; the EAC expects to cover that with services-in-kind. The township also would be required to enter a Landowner–Granter Agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection that includes a restriction preventing tree removal for at least 20 years. The EAC noted watering and mowing will be needed for three to five years after planting.
Board members discussed preserving open park areas for recreation; Supervisor Gary Filzen said he was concerned about preserving usable open space and not overcrowding the grove. The board did not vote on the grant application at the meeting; the topic was scheduled for the October meeting agenda for further discussion.
