TCCCA has been partnering with Jim and Cindy Hess since 2004 to improve the Little Conewago Creek that runs through their farm in South Londonderry Township. The Hesses enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program to install stream bank fencing and plant trees to create a riparian buffer along the creek.
In spring 2004, TCCCA volunteers installed black willow live stakes along the stream banks to enhance the buffer. Live stakes are live cuttings taken from dormant trees and shrubs that grow well in wet soils. Many of the willow live stakes took root and are now helping to stabilize the stream banks and prevent erosion.
TCCCA also partnered with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to plant additional trees within the buffer in 2009. TCCCA, CBF and Penn State Extension volunteers completed additional buffer maintenance and live staking at the project in spring 2013. Willow stakes were cut from willow trees along the creek that were started as live stakes nine years prior!
Location of buffer:
Before and after buffer planting:
