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Chester County Press

Conservancy seeks volunteers for tree plantings

09/10/2014 05:35PM ● By Lev

The Brandywine Conservancy is calling for volunteers to help plant 2,900 trees this fall for the organization's Reforestation Campaign. The Brandywine/Christina Basin provides 100 million gallons per day of drinking water to more than 500,000 people in three states; reforesting the watershed ensures and improves water quality.

No experience is necessary. Volunteers are asked to bring a shovel, mallet and gloves if possible, dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes. Plantings set for Sept. 27 at the Pocopson Home and Oct. 18 at Wyebrook Farm in Honey Brook.  The planting will start at 8:30 a.m. both days, and last until early afternoon. Snacks will be provided at each planting. Victory Brewing Company will provide beverages at the Oct. 18 planting at Wyebrook, and volunteers from Guardians of the Brandywine will help plant.

Planting trees enhances water quality, restores natural flows in the Brandywine, and improves plant and animal habitat. Trees provide food and shelter for life in and around streams, promote absorption of rain into the ground, replenish groundwater supplies, and reduce storm water runoff and downstream flooding. In addition, tree leaves, branches, and roots reduce erosion and prevent excess sediment and nutrients from entering streams during heavy rains.

The Conservancy is midway through its "50 by 50" campaign to plant 50,000 trees by 2017, having planted its 25,000th tree in April 2014. The campaign targets the vulnerable steep slopes and riparian areas (strips of land immediately adjacent to a stream) because these locations are especially vulnerable to erosion, and, when reforested, are the most effective at filtering sediments and other pollutants before they reach streams, creeks and rivers.

"We are proud to work with the community to improve water quality from the source to the spigot in the Brandywine Watershed throughout Pennsylvania and Delaware," said Sherri Evans-Stanton, director of the Brandywine Conservancy.

For information or to volunteer, contact Beth Burnam at 610-388-8396 or e-mail [email protected]