Our Current Project

In partnership with the Forks of the Delaware Chapter of Trout Unlimited and Wildlands Conservancy, BSC is in the midst of a large Bushkill Creek improvement project. This is one of the bigger projects we have completed to date, and we are very exciting to see it moving forward! Approximately 1.9 miles of the creek between Tatamy and Palmer will be improved as part of the project.

Aerial view of the proposed stream improvement project
Map courtesy of Trout Unlimited

The goals of this project are to increase public access and awareness and to mitigate effects of development in the area of the Bushkill creek including increased stormwater runoff and loss of the traditional floodplain. The three specific negative impacts that we intend to address are:

  • Stream widening: Widening of the stream leads to habitat loss, poor conveyance of sediment, and increased temperature.
  • Siltation/sediment buildup in stream: Siltation leads to decreased fish spawning, decreased fish habitat, and decreased macroinvertebrate populations. Macroinvertebrates are an indicator of overall stream health.
  • Channelization: Channelization leads to increased sedimentation and stream bank erosion.
Section of the Musconetcong River before (left) and after (right) restoration. Increased presence of pocket water improves fish habitat and narrowed stream channel improves stormwater handling.
Photos courtesy of Trout Unlimited

As part of this project, we will create improved public access areas and revitalize stream features such as riffles, runs, pools, and pocket water which improve sediment transport. Similar projects have been completed on the nearby Musconetcong and Raritan Rivers.

After restoration, we anticipate the following benefits:

  • Excellent sediment transport
  • Improved recreation opportunities
  • Deeper pools
  • Improved thermal protection
  • Increased dissolved oxygen
  • Better fish-holding structures
  • Increased visual appeal

Previously Completed Projects

Since 2001, the Conservancy has secured over $550,000 in grants for projects in the Bushkill Creek watershed. A sampling of these activities is highlighted below. All of these projects illustrate the valuable partnerships that have been created through BSC, and many of the projects have been supported by grants obtained from the Pennsylvania Growing Greener program, Pennsylvania DCNR, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the Water Resources Education Network, the Coldwater Heritage Partnership, private foundations and corporate donations.

Pennsylvania DCNR has recognized the successful partnership of BSC with Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center, and considers it a model for how DCNR can work with local partners to assist a region with its conservation and recreation needs. Read about the Lehigh Valley Greenways Initiative for more information.