Awards & Accomplishments
Watershed Conservation Accomplishments
Through the support of our members, patrons, dedicated volunteers and project partners, the Independence Conservancy is making great strides in watershed conservation and land reclamation. We've done a lot since adopting Land Trust Standards and Practices, establishing the first land trust based in
Beaver County, PA, protecting 99 acres of land in three counties.
Success Stories
Completed the Raredon Run Stream Restoration repairing 1600 feet of erosion using Natural Stream Channel Design, in-stream habitat improvements and riparian buffers.
Established the one-of-a-kind Community Tire Collection Program providing economical waste tire disposal options to local municipalities in four counties - over 66,000 tires and wheels properly disposed since 2004.
Eliminated numerous illegal dump sites in the Raccoon Creek valley by removing and recycling over 22,000 fugitive tires and 300 tons of scrap metal.
Helped to draft the Raccoon Creek Region Conservation Plan, a non-regulatory guide for sustainable development in the Region, leading to Raccoon Creek’s listing on Pennsylvania’s Rivers Registry.
Launched the Raccoon Creek Recovery project, a comprehensive biological survey of the overall health of Raccoon Creek and its tributaries - a catalyst for future efforts promoting healthy habitat, cleaner water, and greater awareness of our local outdoor treasures.
Built and operated multiple Abandoned Mine Discharge Treatment Systems, which remove over 600 tons of iron yearly from the headwaters of Raccoon Creek.
Partnered with Potter Township to create Rocky Bend Nature Preserve on Raccoon Creek in Beaver County, featuring 89 acres of wildlife habitat and nearly two miles of stream frontage open to the public year-round for hunting, fishing, swimming, wildlife watching, and quiet enjoyment of nature.
Restored over a thousand feet of erosion and planted 5 acres of riparian buffer on Raccoon Creek in Potter Township at Rocky Bend Nature Preserve, featuring a canoe launch and two Creekside Trail parking areas at 201 and 221 Raccoon Creek Road.
Awards
President's Choice Award 2016: Washington County Community Foundation
Best Education and Outreach Project 2013: Ohio River Watershed Celebration
Most Innovative Project Award 2012: Ohio River Watershed Celebration
Conservation Organization of the Year 2006: Washington County Conservation District
Environmental Excellence Award 2005: Ohio River Watershed Celebration
Pictured here: Peg Schweinsberg, Vice-Chair of Independence Conservancy, with Gary Stokum, Manager of Washington County Conservation District, receive Washington County Community Foundation’s President’s Choice Award, October 2016.
