EVT Open Space Committee: A Journey Towards Conservation Excellence

 

Introduction:

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Abundant farmlands and unique natural resources are at the heart of East Vincent Township. Our farmlands, rivers, and streams have achieved special National and State Heritage Corridor and Hopewell Big Woods designations. Chester County's Landscapes3 categorizes us as a Rural Resource Protection Area.

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Embracing Our Rich Preservation History:

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The Township's history of preservation and open space efforts have resulted in nearly East Vincent has preserved 2,023 acres throughout the township—approximately 23% of the Township’s total land area—in addition to open space set-asides within planned neighborhoods.  The EVT Open Space Committee (OSC) has been hard at work, focusing on creating a framework to enable the Township to preserve our natural resources and agricultural heritage, promoting open space initiatives, and enhancing the beauty of our Township through the following efforts and goals for each year:

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• Working with Chester County Planning Commission to develop a GIS Mapping system of Township Resources.

• Identifying matching fund opportunities and establishing clear timelines to secure these vital resources.

• Drafting the East Vincent Township Ranking and Review Process to guide the township in selecting natural resource conservation and farmland preservation projects with precision and purpose.

• Building strong community relationships is vital. In 2024 the OSC held an outreach forum to landowners, farmers, equestrians, and agricultural entrepreneurs to exchange ideas and information to garner support for our conservation initiatives.

• Identifying land preservation opportunities.

• Four properties have recently been protected totaling 330.46 acres: two working farms, one on Keene and another on Dairy Road, a key woodlands in the French Creek Watershed that will become a township park and trail, and a Camp which is situated on the French Creek.

• Collaborating with conservation organizations and our municipal neighbors to review our common preservation property priorities.

 

Conclusion:

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The EVT OSC remains dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and resources of our Township. They are just beginning their journey towards conservation excellence to leave a legacy for generations to come.