Delco Conservation District Leads Restoration of Stoney Creek Riparian Zone

The Delaware County Conservation District (DCCD), led by Director Karen Wilwol, spearheaded an impactful restoration project at Moore’s Lake Park, also known as The Hollow, in Prospect Park earlier this winter.

This large-scale planting effort, conducted in collaboration with the Borough of Prospect Park and the Darby Creek Valley Association (DCVA), successfully enhanced the riparian zone of Stoney Creek with 170 newly planted trees and shrubs.

“This project demonstrates the impact we can achieve when volunteers, municipalities, and organizations work together,” said Karen Wilwol, Director of DCCD. “Healthy riparian zones play a vital role in protecting our waterways and ensuring a resilient natural environment for future generations.”

The initiative, supported by the Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership, aligns with a broader statewide goal to plant 10 million trees across Pennsylvania by 2025. The mix of tree and shrub species selected for the project was carefully chosen to filter runoff, stabilize streambanks, and enhance aquatic habitats in the impaired waters of Stoney Creek.

Chris Cook, a Prospect Park resident and DCCD’s Watershed Specialist, played a key role in the planning and execution of the project. “As a longtime resident in this community, it’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to the restoration of Stoney Creek,” said Cook.

“These trees and shrubs will not only improve water quality but also create a greener, more vibrant space for all of us to enjoy.”   Ultimately, more than 40 volunteers from around the community gathered to plant saplings during the event held last month. Using tools provided by DCCD through a collaboration with the Southeastern PA Resource Conservation and Development Council, the group planted all 170 saplings in just three hours, ensuring they were watered and mulched to thrive in their new environment.   “Riparian buffers like the one restored here are one of the most effective tools we have for improving water quality and protecting our waterways,” said Delaware County Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer.

“By filtering pollutants from runoff, reducing sedimentation, and creating critical habitat for wildlife, this project ensures that Stoney Creek will be healthier and more resilient for decades to come.”

The restoration effort is part of DCCD’s mission to protect and restore natural resources across Delaware County. DCCD works with landowners, municipalities, volunteers, and community organizations to provide technical assistance and implement conservation practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.

“Projects like this highlight the strength in grassroots partnerships,” added Cook. “Despite the absence of an Environmental Advisory Council or a Shade Tree Commission in Prospect Park Borough, Councilman Paul K. Johnson was committed to partnering with DCCD, and I want to extend DCCD’s appreciation for his involvement, and DCVA’s Operations Manager Kyle Gaumann who also played a critical role in the success of the project by promoting the initiative and providing volunteer support.”

This project not only restores ecological balance to Stoney Creek but also underscores the importance of preserving natural spaces for recreation, education, and environmental resilience. It reflects the community’s commitment to safeguarding local ecosystems for generations to come.

With the successful planting of the new riparian buffer, Stoney Creek is poised to benefit from improved water quality, reduced erosion, and increased habitat value for local wildlife.

— Reprinted from Delaware County Weekly Newsletter