Stormwater Projects – Lower Merion Conservancy

The Conservancy has been studying local streams since our inception. Increasing precipitation rates and ongoing development have led to worsening stream conditions, even as stormwater management requirements for new developments have become more stringent. Through the Delaware River Watershed Initiative we have connected with academic-level stormwater research and watershed groups with similar focuses, keeping us informed about broader strategies and trends. More significant projects are necessary just to maintain current stream conditions.

The Conservancy takes two primary approaches to healing our streams: helping residents reduce their impacts at home and working with park friends groups and Lower Merion Township Department of Parks and Recreation to implement larger projects in public parks. Learn more about some of our ongoing work below:

Harriton Preserve Restoration

The Conservancy recently received a Growing Greener Plus grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to expand and restore habitat at the Preserve at Harriton, in partnership with the Friends of Harriton Preserve (FHP) and Lower Merion Township (LMT). The Preserve at Harriton is an 8.9-acre parcel within Harriton… Read more

Cynwyd Heritage Trail Wildlife Habitat Expansion

In 2020, the Conservancy received a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to improve stormwater management, restore wildlife habitat, and improve recreational access on the Cynwyd Heritage Trail and along sections of Vine Creek. During heavy rain storms, water rips down sections of the Cynwyd Heritage Trail, forcing… Read more

Delmont Avenue Green Street

The Conservancy is working with the residents of Delmont Avenue in Ardmore to plant native plants, de-pave, establish rain gardens, redirect piped downspouts, and install flow through planters, all to slow down stormwater. The efforts on Delmont Ave. are an expansion of the Stream Smart program. After the initial success… Read more