winter 2012 volume 21 • number 4 - fow · 2020. 2. 22. · of many bridges that park visitors...
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PRESERVING THE NATURAL BEAUTY AND WILDNESS OF THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY FOR EIGHTY-EIGHT YEARS.
WINTER 2012 VOLUME 21 • NUMBER 4
2
In this issue of our newsletter, we turn the spotlight on the iconic Thomas Mill Covered Bridge in Wissahickon Valley Park--one of many bridges that park visitors traverse every day. Bridges
are rich in metaphorical possibilities, and it isn’t lost on us that the work we have been doing at FOW throughout the Fall is, in essence, building bridges to our future. Over the past few months, FOW has been evaluating the results of our Park User Survey and developing a strategic plan for the next five years. The process helps us identify the goals we will pursue in the future and develop the projects necessary to achieve them.
What does long-range planning look like at FOW? We begin by asking big questions about the nature of the work that we do and the directions we should be going in the future in the context of our mission. We consider possible threats to the Park and opportunities for improvement. We meet with our partners, such as the Philadelphia Water Department, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, and the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association. We solicit feedback from our members and park users with surveys and public meetings.
You might think the Sustainable Trails Initiative (STI) will consume all of our time and resources in the coming five years, and you wouldn’t be wrong. But it is not an end in itself. STI builds the foundation for future programs in the Wissahickon while reducing erosion through trail closures, restoring habitat through planting, and improving park user safety and enjoyment with signage. Over the next five years, while we strive to complete STI, FOW will examine tree canopy replacement, understory restoration, the deer program, and habitat improvement. We will focus more attention on the water flowing in the Wissahickon Creek and look to expand our advocacy to be watershed centric, which would require us to work more closely with our partners outside of the city. If you are reading this message, you appreciate our stewardship over the Wissahickon, but for many, FOW and the health of the Park are vague ideas. So, we will explore new marketing possibilities, to enable FOW to better spread the word about the work we and our volunteers do in the park.
Our members and all park users are an important part of this process. For a year, beginning in July 2011, we solicited your input on our work in the Wissahickon with a Park User Survey. We will continue to collect feedback from our members with a questionnaire on our website (http://www.fow.org/long-range-plan-message). We ask you to please take a few minutes and let us know what you think. Help us build bridges toward FOW’s future and the continued preservation of the Wissahickon.
United Way DonationsThe Friends of the Wissahickon can receive
membership/donations through the United Way. Our United Way number is 9882. If this is the most convenient way for you to give, please do so. Visit our website (www.fow.org) to learn about the benefits of membership in the Friends of the Wissahickon.
We will continue to collect feedback from our
members with a questionnaire on our website
We ask you to please take a few minutes and
let us know what you think.
(http://www.fow.org/long-range-plan-message)
OFFicersJohn Rollins, President
Bettina Hoerlin, Vice President, Advocacy
Will Whetzel, Vice President, Governance
Jeff Harbison, Treasurer
Richard Berman, Secretary____________________________________
past presidents Cindy Affleck Charles Dilks Robert A. Lukens David Pope Edward C. Stainton Robert Vance
____________________________________
bOard MeMbers
8708 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19118-2717
Phone: (215) 247-0417 • E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.fow.org
______________________________
The mission of the Friends of the Wissahickon is to preserve the natural beauty and wildness of the
Wissahickon Valley and stimulate public interest therein.
_____________________________
Cindy AffleckChris Bentley
Richard BermanMelen Boothby
Richard P. Brown, Jr.Stephanie Craighead
Emily DaeschlerDaphne Lynch Fifield
Sam FinneyShirley Gracie
Heidi GrunwaldJeff Harbison
Robert HarriesCindy Heckscher
David Hilton
Bettina HoerlinLouise JohnstonCourtney Kapp
John KellyMartha Kennedy
Richard KremnickCharles Lee, Jr.Jerome Maddox
John MeigsLiz PearsonDavid PopeJohn RollinsLiz WerthanWill Whetzel
______________________________________
NewSleTTer Denise Larrabee, Editor
Dena Sher, Associate Editor • Sarah West, Listings Editor Moon Design, Layout
Published by INTERPRINT of Bristol, PA.
Printed on recycled paper.
____________________________________
staFFMaura McCarthy, Executive Director
Ruffian Tittmann, Development DirectorAudrey Simpson, Business Manager
Denise Larrabee, Editor/PublicistDan Mercer, Volunteer Coordinator
Henry Stroud, Project ManagerZane Magnuson, Development Assistant
Sarah Marley, Outreach Coordinator
Friends of the Wissahickon • Winter 2012
By John Rollins
From the President
We appreciate Valley Green Bank reinvesting in our community and in the
Wissahickon Valley!
Cover Photo Credits: Aisenstein, Coxe, doran, Goodrich, Graves, Hitt,
Hollinger, Nissanov, and Seif.
Winter 2012 • Friends of the Wissahickon 3
WATERSHEDWatch
FOW Project Update
New Trails at Andorra Natural AreaThree new trails were recently completed in the Andorra Natural Area, part of FOW’s
Sustainable Trails Initiative (STI). These trails are the first stage in the Wissahickon Environmental Center (WEC) Stormwater Management project, a targeted effort to improve the trail system around the WEC.
The initial trail cuts were completed by some of the Friend’s more experienced trail builders and staff, including: Charles Uniatowski, Nick Uniatowski, Henry Stroud, and Dmitri Zorine. Frequent volunteers Kevin Kramer and David Dannenberg, also a former FOW Board member, helped move soil and materials as work progressed. A retaining wall was built on one of the trails by John Cassidy, Kevin Kramer, and Nick Uniatowski.
Volunteers from the community, including students from The Crefeld School, completed most of the finish work by hand, removing debris and smoothing the trail treads. Park users have praised these new trails, with many enjoying not having to scramble up some of the steeper switchbacks and eroded sections which have now been bypassed.
Planting near Bridge at Cresheim Creek
On November 11, FOW and REI teamed up to help restore a section of streambank along Cresheim Creek near the Telner/St. Martins Bridge. This restoration project is part of a larger joint effort between the Philadelphia Water Department and Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) to make improvements along the Creek.
PPR supplied volunteers with trees and willow stakes that were propagated locally at
Greenland Nursery. Willow stakes are cuttings that are inserted into the stream bank in the colder months when they are dormant. Because willows have an abundant amount of growth hormone, even small cuttings can re-grow into full size plants. In the spring, as temperatures rise, the stakes will begin to send out roots and grow shoots. Willows are especially beneficial for water quality in the small tributaries that feed Wissahickon Creek because they slow the movement of stormwater, which reduces erosion and provides shade and habitat for aquatic creatures.
Re-planting of MERCK Closure SitesVolunteers planted close to 300 native shrubs and trees to reinforce closures of three old trail
beds that were closed last year. Many of the plants that were originally planted had been killed from drought, deer predation, and damage from park users. This new round of plantings should ensure that the closures fill in nicely over the next three to five years. Additionally, split rail fences were installed to dissuade park users from walking in the closures; young plants are sensitive to damage from dogs and walkers and need to be protected as they become established.
Special thanks to the FOW Planting Crew Leaders who carefully placed the plants throughout the closures based on the needs of each species.
by Henry Stroud, Project ManagerKeep the Conversation Going
With limited time at the Town Meeting on the Health of the Wissahickon Creek in March, not all questions submitted by audience members were answered. FOW posts answers to remaining questions in each issue of the newsletter as well as on Facebook and the FOW website.
how successful has saylors Grove stormwater Wetland been in cleaning water? is there data?
The Philadelphia Water Department has developed a good understanding of the performance of the Saylors Grove wetland with respect to sediment removal. Based on 17 discrete storm events in 2006-2010, total suspended solids (TSS) event mean concentration (EMC) of the combined influent to the wetland was approximately 44mg/L, while effluent was ~12mg/L. These figures generally agree with the International Stormwater Database “wet pond” category of 34.13mg/L (range 19.16-49.10) influent and 13.37mg/L (range 7.29-19.45) effluent, respectively. Essentially, the wetland does a good job in removing sediment collected from the streets, sewers, and land. Important, since sediment is the number one problem for urban streams.—Joanne Dahme, Philadelphia Water Department General Manager, Public Affairs.
The Friends of the Wissahickon hosted a Community Forum on Sustainability in the Wissahickon Watershed with Dr. Priscilla Sands on October 23 at Valley Green Inn. She discussed Springside Chestnut Hill Academy’s sustainability efforts within the Wissahickon watershed with an audience of 35 interested northwest Philadelphia residents. dr. Sands received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania and has lived and worked almost her entire life in the Philadelphia area. For 15 years she served as head of Springside School and is currently president of Springside Chestnut Hill Academy
Volunteers at Kitchen’s Lane: Ethan Mussomeli, Kevin Kramer, FOW Volunteer Coordinator Dan Mercer, Portia Sampson-Knapp, Harold Brubaker, Martha Hill, Jesse Evans, Jan LeSuer, and Matt Ziemba.
Mike and Grant Shellenbarger plant trees near Cresheim Creek.
Friends of the Wissahickon • Winter 2012 4
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WATERSHEDWatchWhat’s Happening in the Wissahickon 1. Andorra Meadow Expansion (PPR)—Creation of approximately 21 acres of contiguous
meadow and 4 acres of shrub habitat and the restoration of 5 acres of forest and forest understory. Accessible from Northwestern Avenue. Ongoing invasive plant controls.
2. Houston Meadow Reclamation (PPR)—Tree and shrub clearing, 7 acres of forest thinned to favor native mast producing species, replanting, and protecting meadow with 3,800 feet of deer fencing. Ongoing planting/cutting, and invasive plant controls.
3. gully Restoration – St. Martin’s lane and Huron Street (PPR)—Restoration of stormwater gully to reduce stormwater runoff, sedimentation in Wissahickon Creek, and erosion. Planting in fall 2012. Construction COMPlETED.
4. Roxborough Reservoir (PPR)—Invasive vegetation to be removed in a 3.2-acre area. Planting along Eva St. in fall 2012.
5. gorgas Run Stream Restoration Project (PWD)—A project that will help stabilize the banks to reduce erosion while also protecting nearby trails and infrastructure.
6. Wise’s Mill Stormwater Treatment Wetland (PWD)—A project to reroute storm flows with a stormwater treatment wetland that will collect stormwater from the 261 acre area that eventually discharges into Wise’s Mill Run, a tributary of Wissahickon Creek.
7. Wise’s Mill Stream Restoration (PWD)—A program of limited in-stream intervention to reduce stream bank erosion, improve in-stream habitat, and address critical infrastructure issues.
8. Bell’s Mill Run Stream Restoration (PWD)—A project to restore the Bell’s Mill stream by utilizing stone for energy dissipation and principles of natural stream channel design.
9. Wissahickon East Project (WEP)— Integration of land along Cresheim Creek into Fairmount Park
10. Andorra Natural Area Improvements (FOW)—rehabilitate and redesign 18,000 linear feet of trail to mitigate stormwater runoff and reduce sedimentation into Wissahickon Creek; install a public, ADA accessible composting restroom; and construction of new back porch for Wissahickon Environmental Center. (STI Stage 4--Wissahickon Environmental Center Stormwater Management).
11. Valley green Stream Stabilization and Parking lot Improvements (FOW)—Stabilize the stream channel, remove debris from the stream, and make parking lot infrastructure improvements designed to mitigate erosion of the lot.
This list represents projects that will be executed in the coming year. It is not comprehensive.
Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW)
philadelphia parks & recreation (ppr)
philadelphia Water department (pWd)
Wissahickon east project (Wep)
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News from FOW’s Conservation Committee
FOW’s Conservation Committee meets formally four times per year, with periodic project meetings in the interim. The Committee
is charged with providing an oversight role in managing FOW staff activity and resource allocation in the Park. The broad focus of the Committee is to examine activities which involve Trails, Trees, and Tributaries, that is to say the ongoing implementation of the Sustainable Trails Initiative, the biodiversity in the Park (plant and wildlife), and the issues which surround water
quality in the Wissahickon watershed. The current agenda focuses on: (i) the Plant Study Indexes currently being conducted to evaluate efficacy and results; (ii) historical, current and future volunteer resource utilization; (iii) Sustainable Trail Initiative project review; and (iv) Water Quality issues in our watershed, including evaluating and disseminating water quality conditions (collected by peer organizations) while monitoring threats and opportunities for advocacy and FOW action. Adjunct projects include oversight of a GIS
mapping system being developed by FOW staff, broadly defining the Park into descriptive flora zones (utilizing third party studies corroborated by Committee field work), and the re-creation of a Wildlife subcommittee. An important contextual role of the Conservation Committee is to provide a knowledge bridge of FOW Staff program activities and organizational operating knowledge to the FOW Board.
Daphne Fifield is co-chair with Board Member Charlie Lee of FOW’s Conservation Committee.
By Daphne Fifield, Board Member
Winter 2012 • Friends of the Wissahickon 5
City Council Passes Bill Protecting Philadelphia’s Waterways
Philadelphia City Council passed Bill 120654 on Thursday, November 29, which will protect the City’s rivers and streams with a buffer zone of 50 feet. This prevention of development close to Philadelphia’s waterways will protect water quality, help manage rising stormwater, and provide for recreational uses along our rivers. FOW, like many local environmental organizations, took action and played a role in protecting our waterways. Executive Director Maura McCarthy spoke before City Council on October 31 on behalf of both FOW and the Tookany/Tacony Frankford Watershed Partnership, and she and FOW President John Rollins published the following essay in numerous local publications.
Almost two months have passed since Philadelphia’s new zoning code took effect, but many of the City’s rivers and streams still have no legal protection. Changes to the new zoning code are still being debated in City Council—changes that would require only 25-foot buffers (or
setbacks) barring development for the city’s rivers and streams. This figure is drastically lower than both the 100-foot setback originally proposed during the zoning reform process and the 50-foot setback that was eventually agreed upon by waterway advocates, community representatives, the Planning Commission, and members of City Council. All of Philadelphia’s waterways are considered impaired, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PDEP). If any change is to be made to the minimum width of the buffer zone around Philadelphia’s waterways and streams, it should be restored to the original 100 feet, as recommended by the PDEP. Retaining the compromise 50-foot buffer is a minimally acceptable alternative; reducing it further to 25 feet would be devastating to the health of Philadelphia’s waterways.
This issue is of particular interest to organizations that work to maintain and protect Philadelphia’s watershed parks, such as the Friends of the Wissahickon. Our focus is on protecting and improving the public lands of the lower Wissahickon Valley and the quality of the Wissahickon Creek, which contributes to the drinking water for nearly one-third of Philadelphia. Every day in the lower Wissahickon Valley, we see how buffer zones act as natural biofilters, protecting rivers and streams from the negative effects of sedimentation, stormwater runoff, and erosion.
In 1975, City Council recognized the importance of setbacks for our drinking water with a targeted ordinance that mandated a 200-foot setback for significant streams and tributaries and a 50-foot setback for minor tributaries in the Wissahickon Watershed. Should they consider a 25-foot buffer zone, Council will be ignoring what they know to be true: drinking water health requires significant setbacks for stream buffer zones.
There is strong evidence that a 25-foot buffer will not meet Philadelphia’s basic drinking water quality goals for sediment and nutrient reduction as mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The 1997 Chesapeake Bay Riparian Handbook, published by the United States Department of Agriculture and EPA, states that “. . . for a riparian area to serve the water quality functions of buffering impacts from adjacent land use, a ‘critical mass’ or sustainable width is often essential. Buffers of less than 50 feet have proven increasingly difficult to maintain as effective filters in the field. . . very narrow buffer strips of 15 to 25 feet are generally inadequate for sediment or nutrient reductions. . .”
Implementing an inadequate buffer zone could cost the City tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars to remedy, requiring expensive improvements to our drinking water infrastructure over a long period of time. In addition, failing to establish viable, working buffer zones in the City of Philadelphia also directly undermines the Philadelphia Water Department’s visionary Green Cities, Clean Water agreement with the EPA, a landmark strategy that is poised to distinguish Philadelphia from other major U.S. cities in the coming decades.
Although there is complexity in the drafting of all legislation, the overall health of the Wissahickon Creek and other Philadelphia watersheds is a critical issue for not only Northwest Philadelphia residents, but all Philadelphians reliant on the public water supply. The citizens of Philadelphia need to know that City Council will ensure that the protections put into place in the Wissahickon in the 1970s will be continued and strengthened into the future, and that similar protections will be extended to all streams in Philadelphia, regardless of the new zoning changes.
FOW seeks to maintain this existing standard in the Wissahickon Watershed and improve the standards City-wide and urges Council to strengthen Philadelphia’s health, infrastructure, quality of life, and future fiscal health by increasing setbacks for all Philadelphia waterways, rather than reducing and weakening our water quality protections. Significant stream buffers of 100 feet would provide optimal protections for all waterways. We urge all citizens in Philadelphia to contact their local Council representatives and speak up for optimal stream buffers.
by Linda Goschke, President, Friends of Carpenter’s Woods
Update: Friends of Carpenter’s Woods
The Friends of Carpenter’s Woods (FoCW) has been busy throughout the fall, working with David Bower,
Volunteer Coordinator for Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, to address trail and invasive plant issues in Carpenter’s Woods. We welcomed enthusiastic volunteers from the Vanguard Group, Inc., and The Crefeld School, who joined FoCW members in maintaining the woods. In September, with the help of Vanguard, under the guidance of Dave Bower, Dave Dannenberg, Erica Brendel, and FOW Volunteer Coordinator Dan Mercer, the Ellet Trail was narrowed, water erosion controls received maintenance, the boardwalk near the spring was extended, and invasive knotweed, Oriental bittersweet, and aggressive vines were removed from the meadow area. In preparation for Hurricane Sandy, FoCW volunteers worked with David Bower to clear storm drains on the streets bordering the woods. After Sandy, students and teachers from The Crefeld School helped with fallen tree and leaf clean-up along the edges of the woods.
FoCW is organizing a committee to learn about and assess the level of invasive plants in Carpenter’s Woods in order to develop a plan for removing them and planting appropriate natives. Anyone interested in participating should contact Linda Goschke at [email protected] or [email protected] by December 20, 2012.
Pictured above: Students from the The Crefeld School cleaned up around Carpenter’s Woods after Hurricane Sandy.
WATERSHEDWatch
6 Friends of the Wissahickon • Winter 2012
Hurricane Sandy Clean-upThe clean-up
began shortly after Hurricane Sandy ended. On October 31, students from The Crefeld School helped clean up Carpenter’s Woods, and volunteers Kevin Kramer and Ben Dunphey cleared the Lavender Trail system. Crew leaders Nick Uniatowski, Dmitri Zorine, and Chuck Uniatowski spent a full day clearing fallen trees on the Yellow Trail. The November 2 work day was attended by 33 volunteers, so there were four crews working at various locations in the park. Thanks to Kevin Kramer, Dave Dannenberg, Dmitri Zorine, Chuck Kirkland, and Kenn Rymdeko for leading work crews. On November 3, Dana Randall, Heidi Grunwald, Dave Dannenberg, Kenn Rymdeko, and Chuck Kirkland continued to clear trees in the park.
Harpers Meadow Clean-upIn October, volunteers from Abington High
School, Episcopal Academy, and The Crefeld School worked to clear an area of Harper’s Meadow behind Northwestern Stables. The students dispersed fallen trees and removed trash, chunks of concrete, and concrete fence posts. A total of seven pickup trucks were needed to remove the trash.
Planting DaysFOW led two fall planting events in October to
increase the number of plantings in recently filled-in gullies at Bluebell Hill and Kitchen’s Lane. Thanks go to planting crew leaders Kevin Kramer and John Cassidy. A special thanks goes to Wendy Willard for choosing appropriate locations within the gully to plant particular species of plants. Over 220 trees and shrubs were planted during the two work days. For more on FOW planting projects, see page 5.
Love Your Park WorkdayA great group from the American Society of
Civil Engineers worked at the Andorra natural Area on November 17 for the Love Your Park workday. The volunteers removed soil that had built up behind a berm designed to control storm water and used the soil to add water control features on the new trail. Work on this trail should be completed during December work days. For more on volunteer work at the Andorra Natural Area, see p. 5.
6
VOLUNTEERrepOrt by Dan Mercer, Volunteer Coordinator
Students from Abington High School working at Harper’s Meadow.
Manuel Hernandez volunteered to clean up on November 3.
Jeremy Chrzan and Catherine Brabston of the American Society of Civil Engineers at the College of New Jersey.
Anne Breen of Wyndmoor helping with Clean-Up after Hurrican Sandy.
FOW Commemorates Completion of Warming Shed at Valley Green
The Friends of the Wissahickon commemorated the completion of the Warming Shed at Valley Green with the presentation of a plaque,
which was hung on the new structure, on Sunday, November 11. The project was undertaken in 2010 after the structure burned down due to an electrical fire during a rain storm. FOW’s Structures Crew, led by Mike Souders (1943-2012) of Chestnut Hill, rebuilt the Warming Shed with financial support from the Pennsylvania Equine Council (PEC).
“The Friends of the Wissahickon, together with PEC, is excited that the warming shed is now complete,” said FOW Executive Director Maura McCarthy. “This structure is part of the historic fabric of Wissahickon Valley Park, and we hope park users will enjoy using it well into the future.”
Pictured above: Buzz Wemple, FOW Structures Crew Leader, FOW Executive Director Maura McCarthy, and Diane Garvey, Co-Director of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Pennsylvania Equine Council.
Greensgrow co-founder Mary Seton Corboy and Philadelphia Orchard Project director Phil Forsyth were the featured speakers on October 3 at Valley Talks, the Friends of the Wissahickon’s popular lecture series sponsored by Valley Green Bank. Both speakers led a discussion on the challenges facing urban agriculture in Philadelphia and the benefits of fresh local food. Pictured here are: Mary Seton Corboy, Lesley Seitchik, Director of Marketing at Valley Green Bank, debra Wolf Goldstein, a member of Philadelphia’s Commission on Parks & Recreation, and Phil Forsyth.
Tell us what
you think.
go to
www.fow.org
Hurricane Sandy by the Numbers
68 volunteers
300+ volunteers hours
85 felled trees removed
CHAINSAW TRAININGCrew leader training continued in October with five crew leaders receiving certifications to use chainsaws
in the park. The training was offered to select volunteers and was taught by Ben Parsons from the Forest Industry Safety and Training Alliance (FISTA). He was a great instructor and his enthusiasm for safe and efficient use of chainsaws made for an enjoyable class. Thanks go to the following volunteers: David Dannenberg, Dmitri Zorine, Chuck Kirkland, Kenn Rymdeko, and Kevin Kramer for attending the event. The training was also attended by four members of the Philadelphia Water Department and ten employees of Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. Winter 2012 • Friends of the Wissahickon 7
VOLUNTEERrepOrt
Stephen Reid Lawrence (1921-2012)
Stephen Lawrence, a former FOW Board member and dedicated volunteer, died September 26, 2012, of cancer at the Springfield Rehabilitation Center in Wyndmoor.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, he was a graduate of Adelphi Academy. He received a bachelor’s degree from Duke University and a master’s degree in English from Middlebury College. During World War II, he served as a lieutenant in the Navy aboard the destroyer Macomb.
For 34 years, Steve was a marketing and communications executive with the Insurance Co. of North America (INA), which later became a part of Cigna. He was a past president of the Public Relations Society of America and of the Philadelphia Public Relations Association. He was inducted into the PRSA College of Fellows in 1991, and as a retiree, he owned his own consulting company.
Steve was always an avid bird watcher. He was a member of the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club, the Wyncote Chapter of the Audubon Society, and the American Birding Association. He had a life list of 600 U.S. species gathered from his visits to 49 states.
Steve frequently led bird walks sponsored by FOW’s Wildlife Committee. As an FOW board member from 1998 to 2000, and co-chair of this committee from 1998 to 2010, he was instrumental in developing and implementing their programming, which included not only bird watching expeditions, but nature walks and presentations on wildlife in the Wissahickon. Steve worked tirelessly in support of returning the Roxborough Reservoir to Fairmount Park. He also wrote numerous articles on birds for FOW’s quarterly newsletter, participated in public programs, and led bird and nature walks. He was instrumental in creating a program to revive the environment of the Andorra Meadow as well as the installation of Wood duck boxes throughout the Wissahickon.
“Steve was a tireless representative of the Wissahickon and delighted in introducing the beauty of the Valley and its wildlife to others,” says Executive Director Maura McCarthy. “His kindness, warmth, deep knowledge of the Valley’s bird life, and commitment to public service have left a lasting impression on the Friends, and on our ongoing mission to serve the Park and the public.”
Thomas Michael Souders (1943-2012)
Mike Souders, a leader on FOW’s Structures Crew, died on October 28, 2012, of cancer. Mike began volunteering with the Friends of the Wissahickon in 2004 and led one of its most challenging projects in recent years—the rebuilding of the Warming Shed at Valley Green. “Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Mike will clearly remember his sharp wit, keen mind, generous spirit, and dedication to the Structures Crew and the Friends of the Wissahickon,” says Ron Kanter, also a member of the Structures Crew. “He was an artist and an engineer, a progressive who honored tradition, a careful planner who rode a motorcycle, and a quiet gentleman with strong opinions.”
Mike was born on June 10, 1943, in Washington, DC. He grew up in what was then rural northern Virginia, and left there to study physics at Johns Hopkins University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree before becoming a professional physicist. He made Frederick, Maryland, his home for most of his adult life, working nearby in Gaithersburg for the National Institute of Standards and Technology for 40 years. He loved his work and cherished the friends he made in its pursuit. He was an active and conscientious member of several communities of thinkers and doers, working as a website developer for artists and non- profit institutions, and, after retiring to Philadelphia where he spent the last eight years of his life, volunteering on the Structures Crew of the Friends of the Wissahickon, building and maintaining park structures with joy and care.
“Mike Souders was a remarkable person and it was always a pleasure to spend time planning and working with him,” says Executive Director Maura McCarthy. “The Wissahickon has lost a keen champion and a good friend.”
*Sources: Chestnut Hill Local (November 1, 2012) and Frederick News Post (November 14, 2012)
In Memory of Two Dedicated Friends
Read about the volunteers who made Whispers Along the Wissahickon a great success on p. 13.
The Covered Bridge at Thomas Mill Road is one of the most photographed structures in Wissahickon Valley Park—one of many
iconic landmarks, such as Valley Green Inn and the Indian Statue. It is also the only covered bridge in Philadelphia today and the only one still standing within the boundaries of a major city in the United States. While many park visitors enjoy its bold visual presence and the nostalgia it evokes, few are aware of its role in the history of the Wissahickon Valley.
One of five covered bridges that once crossed Wissahickon Creek, the Covered Bridge at Thomas Mill Road provided a connection between developing communities in Chestnut Hill and Roxborough. Traffic from the east side of the creek could reach Manatawna Lane about 100 feet upstream and travel up the steep hillside into upper Roxborough. While it is not known who financed the building of this bridge and the other covered bridges once present along the Wissahickon, the mill owners seem the most likely source. They often owned or were responsible for the roads that connected the two sides of the valley. (Hengst)
the Mills near the covered bridgeThe story of the Covered Bridge at Thomas
Mill Road begins in 1717, when a grist mill was built downstream from the site on the Chestnut
Hill side of the creek. Twenty years later, the mill owner petitioned the court for a road, named Spruce Mill Road, and the Covered Bridge was built. As late as the early 1760s, a productive grist mill, owned by Joseph Paul, III, produced 165,000 barrels of flour a year, which it sent by wagon to Philadelphia. A later owner added a lot and warehouse on the Schuylkill River to provide for shipments on the canal boats.
By the mid-1760s, the grist mill had become a paper mill, with different owners over the years, including Edwin Cope and Daniel Thomas from Moreland Township, who bought the property in 1784. Consequently, the road was renamed Thomas Mill Road. Edwin and Charles Margargee, a prominent banker, who also owned a paper mill near the foot of Wise’s Mill Road, bought the Thomas Mill in the 1850s. While the name of the mill changed to Magargee Mill, the name of the road remained the same. (Hengst)
The Megargees were one of the prominent Wissahickon mill families and their two Wissahickon mills were among the first in the nation to use wood pulp for paper manufacture. They were part of the largest papermaking system in the United States, employing 150 workers and using about 16,000 pounds of rags annually to produce 12,000 pounds of paper.
Both mills were purchased by the Fairmount Park Commission (now Philadelphia Parks & Recreation) in 1871. The City allowed them to operate until 1884, when they were demolished. The lower Megargee Mill near Wise’s Mill Road
was the last of the old Wissahickon Gorge mills to be torn down. The family homestead in the Wissahickon served briefly as the Century Club.
Originally, Wissahickon paper was famous for being very white because of the clarity of the creek water. By the mid-nineteenth century, the quality of the water had deteriorated so much, that the Megargees began using spring water from the hillside to run their paper mills, which was stored in large stone vats. (Contosta and Franklin)
While the builder is unknown, the truss of the Thomas Mill Road Covered Bridge is of the Howe design. It is 86 ft. 6 in. long and 18 ft. 8in. wide. It is considered the oldest and one of the longest of Pennsylvania’s five remaining historic Howe truss covered bridges. Although there were a number of covered bridges in the Philadelphia area during the nineteenth century, this is the only one still standing. Its sides are covered with typical barn red, vertical board and batten siding. It has crosswise plank flooring, stone and mortar abutments and wingwalls, and shingles laid on wide roof sheeting boards. (Philadelphia County Covered Bridges)
restoring the bridge and surrounding trailsThe Thomas Mill Road Covered Bridge has
been rebuilt several times over the years. In 1881, a new bridge was built by the Fairmount Park Commission adjacent to the original structure. It was rebuilt with supporting reinforced steel rods added in 1939. Work was funded by FOW with labor supplied through the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
Friends of the Wissahickon • Winter 2012 8
by Sarah West, Trail Ambassador and Denise Larrabee, Editor
THOMAS MILL ROAD COVERED BRIDGE
New Perspectives on a
Wissahickon Landmark
More on Covered Bridges• Covered bridges were built for functional,
not aesthetic, reasons. The siding and roof enclosed and protected the wood deck and framing from the elements.
• The covering extended the life of a wooden bridge from ten years to 50.
• Nearly 14,000 authentic wooden covered bridges once existed in the United States. Today less than 900 remain.
• The peak of covered bridge building in the United States was between 1830 and 1880. During that period, Pennsylvania had upwards of 1,500 covered bridges.
• Many of the covered bridges still standing are over 150 years old.
SCHUYLKILL RIVER
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MANATAWNA AVE.
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Wissahickon Covered Bridges of the Past
In September 1996, a portion of the bridge’s roof collapsed when an oak tree fell across Forbidden Drive and struck the bridge. The Fairmount Park Commission spent $420,000 to restore it. Renovations were overseen by David Slocum, Architect, and completed by Stepnowskit Bros., Inc., and included removal and replacement of all the wood siding and flooring. Its wood roof, rafters, and sheathing were replaced and topped with a standing-seam, stainless steel roof.
In 1998, substantial improvements were made to Thomas Mill Road and the various trails connecting to the Covered bridge by FOW and the Fairmount Park Commission. This project was made possible by a grant of $13,349 from the National Park Service under a program which targets federal funds for National Natural Landmark areas. Wissahickon Valley Park was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1964.
The Livezey Lane Bridge collapsed in 1904.
The Allen’s Lane Bridge washed downstream in a flood in 1905.
By 1920, the Kitchen’s Lane Bridge was replaced with one that had a trellis.
The Old Red Bridge near Shurs Lane was demolished and replaced by the Blue Stone Bridge in 1896.
9
SOURCES:
Contosta, David, and Carol Franklin. Metropolitan Paradise: The Struggle for Nature in the City. Philadelphia’s Wissahickon Valley 1620-2020. Philadelphia: St. Joseph’s UP, 2010.
Hengst, Bill. “Improvements Completed to Trails Connecting to Covered Bridge.” Friends of the Wissahickon Newsletter 8 (Winter 1999): 3.
---------. “Covered Bridges in the Wissahickon & the Mill at Thomas Mill Road.” Friends of the Wissahickon Newsletter 8 (Spring 1999): 3.
---------. “Reconstruction of Covered Bridge Underway.” Friends of the Wissahickon Newsletter 8 (Spring 1999): 3.
“Pennsylvania Covered Bridges.” Pennsylvania Covered Bridges. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Nov. 2012. http://pacoveredbridges.com.
“Philadelphia County Covered Bridges.” Philadelphia County Covered Bridges. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Nov. 2012. http://pacoveredbridges.com/Philadelphia_County.htm.
West, Sarah. Rediscovering the Wissahickon Through Its Science and History. 1993.
Winter 2012 • Friends of the Wissahickon 9
New Perspectives on a
Wissahickon Landmark
1872. Chestnut Hill Historical Society Chestnut Hill Historical Society.
TA Field ReportSent: Monday, September 24, 2012 1-4 pm
To: Sarah Marley
From: Peg Shaw and Diane Garvey
Shift Summary:
Zone C—beginning and ending at Kitchen’s Lane
Parking Lot Informed cyclist on Forbidden Drive of road
conditions. He was looking for a paved path to
cycle on. Encouraged dog walkers to put their
dogs on leash. Encouraged birder who said she’s
been meaning to join FOW to check out Trail
Ambassador program. We saw ten people walking
dogs off leash and three people walking dogs on
leash. We saw an American toad. Hound dog mix
that lives on Kitchen’s Lane was loose walking up
and down the road and at the trail head at beginning
and end of shift.
Park Damage Report
There were a couple of downed tree limbs
across the trails near Kitchen’s Lane Orange
Trail and there is stormwater damage on road to
Monastery Stables.
Above is a sample of an FOW Trail Ambassadors field report; they are routinely submitted after a patrol shift in the Wissahickon.
Keeping Up With The traiL aMbassadOrs
Friends of the Wissahickon • Winter 2012
Become an FOW Trail Ambassador The Friends of the Wissahickon is offering a winter training session for the
popular Trail Ambassador program. The application deadline is January 25, 2013.
Trail Ambassadors are park volunteers who assist and educate people in the park with anything from directions to safety needs to park history, flora, and fauna. Ambassadors perform their service in the park and participate in ongoing education. They become experts in the Wissahickon and have the opportunity to delve deeply into their particular topics of interest, while providing a valuable public service. Trail Ambassadors share their knowledge by:
• interacting with and providing assistance to park users while walking the trails;
• staffing information tables at FOW volunteer days and events;
• leading walks in the Wissahickon Valley; and
• conducting surveys of park users and wildlife.
There will be eight training sessions on Wednesday evenings, 6 to 8 p.m., and one Saturday morning at The Cedars House from February 6 to March 20, 2013. Applicants accepted into the program are required to pay a $100 registration fee, sign a one-time volunteer release form, and obtain a criminal background check and child-abuse clearance.
Ambassadors must be FOW members or willing to join the organization. The number of open positions is limited. For more
information, program requirements, and an application form, visit www.fow.org/volunteering/trail-ambassadors. Contact FOW Outreach Coordinator Sarah Marley
with questions at [email protected] or 215-247-0417 ext 109.
Pictured above: Front: From Left Front: Jerry O’Neill, Mary Phalan, Gwen Taylor, Sean Reisman. Rear: Bob Maier, Alex Andron, Gay Bain, Richard Linsenberg.
save the date!
FOW Photo ContestWinners ReceptionWednesday, January 23, 2013
6 to 7:30 pmThe Cedars House
Thomas Mill Gate by Matt Evangelou
10
You make the world a more beautiful place.
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NBCUniversal is a proud sponsor of Friends of the Wissahickon.
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Job Name: Whispers Along the Wissahickon Sponsorship Ad 1
ned barnard led a botanical Walking tour of new York’s central park on September 27, organized by the Friends of the Wissahickon. Barnard is an FOW Trail Ambassador and author of New York City Trees (2002), the most extensive field guide on New York and Central Park trees to date. The tour focused on the trees of the southern portion of Central Park with a secondary focus on the structures and history of the area. The group was joined by ken Chaya, creator of Central Park Entire: the Definitive Illustrated Folding Map (2011). Chaya’s map of Central Park is considered the most detailed map of any urban park in the world.
Winter 2012 • Friends of the Wissahickon 11
Winter Trail Ambassador HikesUnless otherwise noted, hikes use uneven trails that may be wet, slippery, or steep.
Please wear sturdy, protective shoes or boots and bring water/snacks if you desire. Children over the age of eight are welcome if accompanied by a responsible adult. Walks are cancelled in the event of heavy rain or snow. Registration is not required, but is recommended so that you can be informed if there are changes. Please visit www.fow.org for updated information.
Winter Plant Walk with Donna Wilhelm saturday, december 8 at 1 pm
Meet at the Houston Recreation Center. Duration: 2 hours. This meadow, located high above the west bank of the Wissahickon Gorge, is being restored from encroaching forest. We will see plants in their winter condition, when bark, buds, and shapes of trees become more evident, as do seeds and fruits. We will also look for the early leaves of next spring’s plants and several signs of dormant insects and butterflies. Wear clothing warm enough for the weather, and bring winter plant guides and hand lenses if you wish. directions: At the intersection of Ridge, Henry, and Cathedral Rd., turn east on East Cathedral Avenue. In about one-half mile, turn left onto Wissahickon Avenue at the Courtesy Stables and drive one short block to Grakyn Lane. Turn right on this one way street to reach the Houston Recreation Center. More info: [email protected].
The Less Traveled Lower Wissahickon with Scott Quitel
saturday, January 12 at 9 amMeet at RittenhouseTown parking lot. In this mildly strenuous hike, we will
explore interesting sections of the less traveled lower park. Along the way, we will visit Lover’s Leap and Hermit’s Cave, 100 Steps, the Philadelphia Canoe Club, and the confluence of the Wissahickon Creek and Schuylkill River. We will take in breath-taking views, and see ancient boulders and gnarly, old chestnut oaks. We will also traverse one of the more secluded side trails in the park as well as the lesser known segment of the Orange Trail that runs along the hillside on the other side of Lincoln Drive. More info: [email protected].
Late Winter in the Gorge with Scott Quitel
saturday, March 2 at 9 amPark near and meet at the trailhead near the intersection of Park Line drive
and Hortter Street. Duration: 3 hours. Distance: 5.5 miles. Look for early signs of the park “waking up” for spring as we roam up and down both sides of the Wissahickon Gorge, traversing sections of the park’s three main hiking trails. Along the way we will discuss geology as we pass amazing ancient rock formations. We will also take in such sights as the undersides of the historic Walnut Lane Bridge, a bullfrog pond, Cresheim Creek, Devil’s Pool, the Fingerspan Bridge, an old springhouse, and a cave. We will top it all off with a commanding view from atop Mom Rinker’s Rock, alongside the Toleration Statue, evergreen mountain laurel, and towering, formidable chestnut oaks. More info: [email protected].
Trail Ambassador Winter Programs At Cedars House
Open free to the public. No reservations are necessary. These programs are suitable for children ten and over, accompanied by a responsible adult. Cancelled in the event of hazardous transportation due to snow or ice. Please check the FOW website for updates: www.fow.org.
Roads and Road Houses of the 19th CenturySunday, January 6 • 2 pm
A 45 minute slide presentation by Trail Ambassador Sarah West.
What Tree Is That? Winter Tree Identification
Sunday, January 20 • 2 pmIf you enjoy winter walks in the Wissahickon and want to
practice your skills identifying deciduous trees without their leaves, join Trail Ambassador Peg Shaw for this exploration hike. This two-hour program will start in the Cedars House reviewing some of the techniques we can use to “read” trees in the winter and then head out for a hike in the woods to practice our skills. If possible, we will hike on the trails and if the trails are not easily accessible, we will hike on Forbidden Drive. More info: [email protected].
Winter Ice Is More than White Sunday, January 2 • 2 pm
If it is a good winter, it might be bright and lovely with snow and ice everywhere, but after a while it all looks alike. White, white, white. Trail Ambassador Bruce Wagner has created a one-hour slide show that enhances the many colors of white. Light is reflected and refracted in all manner of direction, and a whimsical exploration of a series of winter pictures shows the colors we often forget to see.
17th-18th Century Mills and Homesteads Sunday, February 3 • 2 pm
Join Trail Ambassador Sarah West for this 45 minute slide presentation.
Stewardship Challenges in the Wissahickon Sunday, March 3 • 2 pm
A 45 minute slide presentation by Trail Ambassador Sarah West including a short photographic “trip” along the Wissahickon Creek from its source to its mouth, and a discussion of the environmental threats to both stream & forest.
Understanding Horses Sunday, March 17 • 2 pm
Have you ever wondered how a horse thinks and communicates? This presentation by Trail Ambassador Cynthia Turecki will help you understand the horse’s point of view. If the weather is suitable, she will bring her horse for a demonstration.
Historical Geology of the Wissahickon GorgeSunday, March 24 • 2 pm
A 45 minute presentation by Trail Ambassador Sarah West and (if the weather is suitable) a short, easy geology walk along Forbidden Drive between Northwestern Avenue and Bell’s Mill Rd.
Trail Ambassador diane Garvey leading a hike in the Wissahickon.
Keeping Up With The traiL aMbassadOrs
12 Friends of the Wissahickon • Winter 2012
Birding from the Best Seat in the House—the Tree House, that is!
To be honest, I wouldn’t consider myself a birder. There is something
frustrating about reaching for your binoculars, and then, just as you are about to spot the bird, it moves! Sitting in the office at the Andorra Tree House, however, you don’t need binoculars. Here you can learn a lot about birds just by looking out the window.
There are many birds you can see on a quick visit to the Tree House. In the winter, it doesn’t take long before you can see woodpeckers, chickadees, cardinals, blue jays, mourning doves, juncos, and sparrows. In other seasons the occasional migratory bird will visit the feeders. The rose-breasted grosbeak, the rufous-sided towhee, and scarlet tanager have made appearances, causing a quick scurry to the bird identification books and grabbing of the binoculars. A few years ago, we had what we call “the winter of the Pine Siskin.” The thistle feeder was covered daily with this tiny bird that seldom comes this far south.
Every time there is a meeting at the Tree House, the conversation suddenly stops as someone spots a bird. The intimate view of the birds that the Tree House provides can surprise even seasoned park workers sometimes, making it difficult to get work done. Woodpeckers routinely land on the edge of the window affording us a close look at their spots and color patterns. When you see the red-bellied woodpecker hanging on the window frame you actually see the red belly and understand how it earned its name. Small birds sit on the window looking in and call to us saying, “Feed me, feed me.”
There is nothing quite like seeing ten cardinals at the feeders against a backdrop of deep snow, or seeing little chickadees puffed up and sitting on a branch to keep warm. Look for a while longer and you are likely to see a hawk swooping down causing the birds to flee and the squirrels to freeze in their tracks.
Of course, where you have bird feeders, you have squirrels. On any given day there can be up to ten well-fed squirrels hanging from bird feeders, waiting below for the food to drop, or leaping from one tree to the next, and in the summer, sharing the seed with chipmunks.
If you would like to see all the activity yourself, join us on January 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and participate in Project FeederWatch, a project of Cornell University. From the comfort of the
interior of the Tree House or outside on the porch, you can help us count the birds and submit our counts for Cornell’s research. FeederWatch data helps scientists track the abundance and trends in movement of winter bird populations.
Trish Fries is an Environmental Education Program Specialist at the Wissahickon Environmental Center, also known as the Andorra Tree House. For more information on WEC and its programs, visit http://fow.org/about-us/partners/wissahickon-environmental-center.
Staff ProfileDan Mercer
Dan Mercer may have become an FOW employee in January of this year, but he began working with the Friends of the Wissahickon long before that—in
2002, to be exact. That was the year he first volunteered with David Bower, Volunteer Coordinator for Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. Dan was inspired to volunteer because of the 30 to 40 foot long puddles he would see along Forbidden Drive when he was biking in the park. “I just like fixing things that are broken,” he says. “Some people like riding in the park. I like building things in the park.”
Before joining FOW’s staff, Dan worked for GlaxoSmithKline from 1999 to 2007 as an Organic Chemist. He graduated Cum Laude from Temple University in 1998 with a B.A. in Chemistry. Following graduation, he worked for Temple as a Teaching Assistant and Research Intern. In addition, he has
a certificate in Web Design from the University of the Arts.
In his position as Volunteer Coordinator for FOW, Dan not only fixes things in need of repair in the Wissahickon,
but leads others in the completion of projects throughout the park. Dan brings two years of previous experience
working with volunteers to his position. He and FOW volunteer crew leaders Chuck Uniatowski and Dmitri Zorine managed other volunteers at the Walnut Lane Golf Course Re-route in 2010,
part of the Wissahickon Stormwater Mitigation and Sediment Reduction Project. That was followed by three more trail re-routes at gully project sites: Saul High School; Historic RittenhouseTown; and Kitchen’s Lane. They also worked together on a trail re-route as part of the Houston Meadow
Reclamation project.
“Our volunteers are very self motivated and generally enthusiastic,” says Dan. He finds it particularly fulfilling working with student volunteers. “Some of our school kids are not here on their own volition, and it’s fun to see them become excited about doing the work even though they may initially not be,” he says. “They can get real excited carrying port-a-potties out of the park.”
Looking forward, Dan would like to train more volunteer crew leaders and make progress on some long-neglected trails, such as the Lavender Trails, particularly the section from Livezey Dam to the Mt. Airy Bridge. But he does not expect to have trouble finding volunteers. “What draws a lot of people to volunteer,” he believes, “is the need for a concrete sense of accomplishment, in which there is a clearly defined beginning and end with a tangible product.” There is always plenty of that in the Wissahickon.
Dan Mercer leading volunteers to a work
site in the Wissahickon.
Red-bellied Woodpecker. Photo by Ruth Pfeffer
Pine siskin at Tree House feeder.
By Denise Larrabee, Editor
By Trish Fries, Wissahickon Environmental Center
Winter 2012 • Friends of the Wissahickon 13
FOW Volunteers Make Whispers a Success
The 9th Annual Whispers Along the Wissahickon would not have been such a success without the help of the staff from the Wissahickon Environmental Center and some dedicated volunteers. Groups from
The Crefeld School and Abington High School helped prep the Tree House grounds the week before the event by removing black walnuts and fallen branches, as well as stringing lights. Mary Hathaway, Jan LeSuer, Jacob Marcinek, Cynthia Turecki, and Wendy Willard assisted with everything from setting up tables and chairs and decorating to checking people in at the door and helping children on and off the hayride. The staff at the Tree House helped set up for the event and led a nighttime hike through the Andorra Natural Area. Thanks to everyone who helped us make this fun-filled event even more enjoyable!
WHISPERS ALONG THE WISSAHICKON
Maddie Burns of Chestnut Hill gets a tattoo from Tom Spears of Tropic Air Tattoo
Anna Pendse of Wyndmoor Merry Barber of Mt. Airy Lauren Martz of Chestnut Hill
Oscar Morelli and son Emerson from Ambler
FOW TA Stephanie Stein and daughter Maci
Melissa Brunetti, Joe Montagna, and Kirra Rose Montagna from Lansdale
Anne and Charlie Greenberg and Shakia Davis-Jones enjoy a bit of magic.
Lilly and Frances McIntyre of Mt. Airy
Friends of the Wissahickon thanks the followingindividuals and organizations for their support of
Whispers Along the Wissahickon 2012
PRESENTING SPONSORS
WITH SUPPORT FROM
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:Quelque Chose
Heirloom Restaurant, Cosimo’s, Chestnut Hill Coffee Company, Chestnut Hill Camera Shop, Hill Company, Threadwell,
3000 BC, Diamond Spa, Chestnut Hill Sports, El Quetzal, Taste of Philly Soft Pretzels, Thai Ku, Chestnut Hill Cheese Shop, Christine Bamberger,
Liz Pearson, Kilian Hardware List complete as of 10.10.12
b
best nest
In Posse
Pennsylvania Equine Council Rallies Support for FOW
The Pennsylvania Equine Council (PEC), Philadelphia Chapter, has once again organized equestrians to raise funds to support the work of the Friends of the Wissahickon in the park. Ride for the Signs on November 11 raised over $2,400 for new signage as part of FOW’s Sustainable Trails Initiative. With their registration, riders took part in a planned trail ride. Additional funds were raised through donations sponsoring riders and several bake sales.
This is the second fund raising ride PEC has organized in recent years to support the work of the Friends of the Wissahickon. Ride to Rebuild in 2010, raised funds to rebuild the Warming Shed at Valley Green Inn. (see p. 6) Both of these rides, combined, have raised over $10,000 and increased awareness about equestrian use and support of Wissahickon Valley Park.
“FOW is grateful to PEC for organizing the rides and generating such generous support for our efforts,” says Development Director Ruffian Tittmann.
If you belong to a group or organization that would like to raise funds for the Friends of the Wissahickon, contact Ruffian Tittmann, Development Director, at 215-247-0417 ext. 102 or [email protected]
Metropolitan Paradise: The Struggle for Nature in the City. Philadelphia’s
Wissahickon Valley, 1620-2020
by David Contosta and Carol Franklin
Published by St. Joseph’s University Press
Available at FOW’s office8708 Germantown Avenue
Cost: $85 plus $15 shipping
Friends of the Wissahickon • Winter 2012 14
Dena Sher from the Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW) Speakers Bureau, spoke on Art Inspired by the Wissahickon at Journey’s Way in Roxborough this past spring. Sher, a resident of Chestnut Hill, is founder of the Whitemarsh Art Center and a former FOW Board Member. FOW’s Speakers Bureau offers free presentations to local organizations and retirement communities on such topics as ecology, history, geology, and images of the Wissahickon. Complete descriptions of the presentations offered through the Speakers Bureau can be found on FOW’s website at http://www.fow.org/speakers-bureau. To schedule a speaker, contact the FOW office at 215-247-0417 or [email protected].
WISSAHICKONsiGhtinGsThe City of Philadelphia Mural
Arts Program and Bredenbeck’s Bakery dedicated a mural, “Wissahickon Crossing,” on November 10. The mural, on a wall of the bakery at 8126 Germantown Avenue, was designed and painted by muralist Ann Northrup. The design is taken from a pleine-aire watercolor painted directly on the building’s façade and features a scene at the confluence of the Cresheim and Wissahickon Creeks, and a view of Forbidden Drive hidden by trees. “Wissahickon Crossing” is Mural Arts’ first mural in Chestnut Hill, and was completely financed by individuals and businesses in Chestnut Hill. For further information visit www.muralarts.org.
Wissahickon Sightings is a feature in FOW’s newsletter which highlights mentions of the park from the present and past found in unknown or surprising places.
Source: Ryback, Sue Ann. “First Chestnut Hill Mural Dedicated at Bredenbeck’s.” Chestnut Hill Local [Philadelphia] 13 Nov. 2012: n. pag.
15
IN THE WISSAHICKONHIKES
Winter 2012 • Friends of the Wissahickon 15
trail ambassador hikesUnless otherwise noted, hikes use uneven trails that may be wet, slippery, or steep. Please wear sturdy, protective shoes or boots and bring water/snacks if you desire. Children over the age of eight are welcome if accompanied by a responsible adult. Walks are cancelled in the event of heavy rain or snow. Registration is not required, but is recommended so that you can be informed if there are changes. For more information, see p. 11. Please visit www.fow.org for updated information.
Winter plant Walk with donna Wilhelm
saturday, december 8 at 1 pm
Meet at the Houston Recreation Center. Duration: 2 hours. Wear clothing warm enough for the weather, and bring winter plant guides and hand lenses if you wish. Directions: At the intersection of Ridge, Henry, and Cathedral Rd., turn east on East Cathedral Avenue. In about one-half mile, turn left onto Wissahickon Avenue at the Courtesy Stables and drive one short block to Grakyn Lane. Turn right on this one way street to reach the Houston Recreation Center. More info: [email protected]
the Less traveled Lower Wissahickon, with scott Quitel
saturday, January 12 at 9 am
Meet at RittenhouseTown parking lot. Difficulty: mildly strenuous. We will explore interesting sections of the less traveled lower park. Along the way, we will visit Lover’s Leap and Hermit’s Cave, 100 Steps, the Philadelphia Canoe Club, and the confluence of the Wissahickon Creek and Schuylkill River. We will also traverse one of the more secluded side trails in the park as well as the lesser known segment of the Orange Trail. More info: [email protected].
Late Winter in the Gorge with scott Quitel
saturday, March 2 at 9 am
Park near and meet at the trailhead near the intersection of Park Line Drive and Hortter Street. Duration: 3 hours. Distance: 5.5 miles. Look for early signs of the park “waking up” for spring as we roam up and down both sides of the Wissahickon Gorge, traversing sections of the park’s three main hiking trails. More info: [email protected].
philaventureswww.philaventures.org
Last sunday of Month
Gay/Lesbian/tG Wissahickon Walk. Meet outside former Borders on Germantown Ave. in Chestnut Hill at 1:45 pm on the last Sunday of the month. Return: approx. 5 pm. Walk at a focused pace, some ups and downs, over uneven paths. Exit at midway break, if desired. A fun, talkative group of gay/lesbian/TG people who like fresh air and occasional exercise. Leader: Andy B. ([email protected]).
appalachian Mountain club delaware valley chapterwww.amcdv.org
Mondays Wissahickon Gorge Wandering. Brisk-paced hike; distance is dependent on the conditions and speed of the group. Meet by Valley Green Inn at 6:30 pm. Bring water and a flashlight or a head lamp. Bad weather cancels. Leaders: Christina Lawless (215-530-3883) or [email protected]; Michael Lawless (215-836-2275); David Stein (215-508-5915 or [email protected]). Thru February 25.
tuesdays tuesday nights in the Wissahickon. Casual social hike through hills of Wissahickon Gorge. Bring water and a flashlight or headlamp. Always an option for dinner following the hike. Meet at Bruno’s, at the corner of Germantown and Northwestern Avenues, at 6:30 pm. Nasty weather will cancel the hike. Leaders: David Stein (215-499-9803 before 9 pm or [email protected]); Pat Naismith (610-639-3670 before 9 pm or [email protected]). Thru February 26.
Friday, december 21 Friday hike in the Wissahickon. Meet at 11 am at the intersections of Germantown and Northwestern Aves. for a moderate paced 4 mile hike along scenic Wissahickon Creek in NW Philadelphia. Optional lunch at local eatery after hike. Rain at hike time cancels. Leader: Cliff Hence (215-247-3559 before 10 pm or [email protected]).
tuesday, January 1 new Years day hike. Meet 10 am at Valley Green Inn located in NW Philadelphia for a 7 mile moderate paced hike along scenic Wissahickon Creek to celebrate the New Year. For directions go to: http://www.valleygreeninn.com/directions.php. Rain/Snow Icy Trail conditions will cancel. Leader: Cliff Hence (215-247-3559 before 10 pm or [email protected]).
Friday, January 18 Friday hike in the Wissahickon. Meet at 11 am at the intersections of Germantown and Northwestern Aves. for a moderate paced 4 mile hike along scenic Wissahickon Creek in NW Philadelphia. Optional lunch at local eatery after hike. Rain at hike time cancels. Leader: Cliff Hence (215-247-3559 before 10 pm or [email protected]).
Wednesday, February 6 Wissahickon park hike. Meet at 10 am on Northwestern Ave. between Germantown Ave. and Forbidden Drive. Roam Wissahickon trails. Rain cancels. Bring water. Lunch at Bruno’s afterward. Leader: Paul Schott (215-635-3172 or [email protected])
Friday, February 15 Friday hike in the Wissahickon. Meet at 11 am at the intersections of Germantown and Northwestern Aves. for a moderate paced 4 mile hike along scenic Wissahickon Creek in NW Philadelphia. Optional lunch at local eatery after hike. Rain at hike time cancels. Leader: Cliff Hence (215-247-3559 before 10 pm or [email protected]).
CHECk OUR WEBSITE FOR UPdATESWWW.FOW.ORG
FOW is pleased to welcome the following new members, who joined the Friends of the Wissahickon from September through November 2012.
NEWMembers
Ms. Jan AlbaumMr. John AlsentzerMs. Lynn ApplegateMs. Patricia BaileyMs. Gay BainMrs. Jean BalazsMr. Kenneth BarnettMs. Andrea BarsevickMs. Carol BeamMr. Matt BerlinMr. Michael BilottaMs. Kathleen BradleyMr. Joseph BrunoMr. Michael BuckleyMr. David BuckmanDr. James Buehler and
Dr. Lydia OgdenMr. Kenneth BurkMs. Margo CampbellMr. Joseph CapecchiMrs. Marian CohenMr. Ian ComiskyMs. Audrey ConollyMr. Kevin CorcoranMr. Glenn CrathernMr. Andrew CurtinMr. Herbert CutlerMr. and Mrs. Ted DaeschlerMr. Allen DavisMrs. Constance DellmuthMs. Lucy DinsmoreMs. Trinity DixonMr. John DonohueMr. James DoolittleMr. Peter EvansMrs. Cynthia FarrellMr. Edward FieldBarrie Fila
Mr. Richard FillmanMr. Benjamin Frazier IIIMr. Joe GielMrs. Johanna GodbeyMs. Allison GoldenMr. Hellmut GottschildMr. William GreenMrs. Bernice GrunesMr. David W. HaasMr. Paul HaughtonMr. Daniel HendrieMr. Tony HermannMr. Ed HoldenMr. David HoltMr. David HurshMr. Neal JacobsMs. Tamara JonesMr. Donald KahnMr. Jerome KaplanMrs. Mildred KistenmacherDr. John KoltesRev. Edward L. Lee Jr.Mr. Steve LehotayMr. David LevinMr. Joshua LustigMr. Bob MaierMr. John MannisMr. Doug MarkgrafMr. Frank McLaughlinMs. Judy MesirovMr. Michael MichalczykMs. Deirdra MillerMs. Ellen MillerMr. Doug NagelMr. Robert NardiMrs. Geraldine NewtonSentwaki T. Ngozi
Mr. Robert OpiolaMr. George OttoMrs. Andrea ParryMr. David PickerHeather and Chris PlastarasMs. Barbara PolinskyMs. Gwendolyn PriceMr. and Ms. Peter PritzMs. Gwendolyn PunchardMrs. Debra RameyMr. Peter ReinkeMr. Sean ReismanMs. Sheila RichmondMr. Graham RobbMr. Stephen RosascoMr. and Mrs. H. Alfred RyanMrs. Tracey SandmeyerMs. Beatrice SantoriniMrs. Bette SaulMrs. Marie SchmeltzerMr. Mark SchwemlerMs. Patricia ScottMr. David SegalMs. Elizabeth Silver-SchackMr. and Mrs. Charles SiniariMs. Patricia SmailMr. Jonathan SmithMr. Jonathan SnyderMs. Donnas SoleMrs. Merian SotoMr. Scott SpencerDr. Lisa StoutMs. Gwen TaylorMrs. Jane TomaszewskiMs. Ann Von MehrenMr. and Ms. Randy Williams
FOW staff and Board of directors joined together on October 10, to acknowledge the tremendous contribution of Ed and Christine Stainton to the Chestnut Hill community and the preservation of Wissahickon Valley Park. Ed Stainton is a past president of the Friends of the Wissahickon, a long-time leader of the Structures Crew, and was awarded the Wissahickon Award in 2004.
Trail Ambassador Peg Shaw leading a hike on Wissahickon stormwater projects.
The Chestnut Hill Officeis proud to support the Friends of the Wissahickon
Chestnut Hill Office14 West Evergreen AvenuePhiladelphia, PA 19118
215-247-3750prufoxroach.com
Justin M. BaxterBaiyina BrownIngrid BrownCarolyn CottonBibby CraneJanet W. CribbinsSuzanne DanellaDolores DoughertyLisa EdmondsThomas EmlenEllen L.GoodwinKat GrantCherry HarrisonLouise R. JohnstonJanet Lippincott
Lori LorenzMark MalfaraMary McNamaraSusie O’NeilBill SheltonMichael SivelDaniel SmithDorothy StormPam Rosser ThistleDanielle TucciaroneJudith von SchevenRosalie WarrenN. Dudley WarwickPatricia S. WebsterLoretta C. Witt
OF EVENTS IN THE WISSAHICKONCALENDAR
YES, I/We want to help preserve and protect the Wissahickon. MeMbership LeveL
— Friends of the Wissahickon Membership Form —
Method of payment Check Enclosed (payable to the Friends of the Wissahickon)
Charge my VISA Mastercard
Card Number__________________________
Expiration Date________________________
Signature________________________________
*Choice of: Hat
Please keep the premium and use the entire membership fee for the Park.
T-Shirt (circle size) Children: S M L Red Bird: Women S M • Adult L XL Warbler & Map: Adult M L XL XXL
Name _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Street _____________________________________________________________________________________________
City ___________________________________________ State __________________Zip Code ____________________
Phone (Home) ___________________ (Work) ______________________ E-mail _____________________________
I also want to help the Friends of the Wissahickon with:
Membership Community Outreach Trail Repair Clean-Up Wildlife
Fundraising Reforestation Structures Repair Education Vine Removal
Please return to: 8708 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19118 • tel 215-247-0417 • [email protected] • www.fow.orgContributions to the Friends are tax deductible as permitted by current laws.
The official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling, toll free, within Pennsylvania (800) 732-0999.
$20 Limited Income/Students $45 Basic $75 Family $100 Contributing* $250 Sponsor* $500 Patron*
Society of Generous Friends* $1000 $2500 $5000 $10,000 or above
All new members receive a map of the Wissahickon Valley. Limited Income/Student members receive invitations to all events and our quarterly newsletter. Basic members receive invitations to all events; our quarterly newsletter, and membership card with discounts for meals at Valley Green Inn (in the park) and FOW merchandise. Family members receive all benefits of Basic membership plus choice of two kids tees (S [6-8], M [10-12], L [14-16]). Contributing members and above ($100 or more) receive all benefits of Basic membership plus choice of hat or T-shirt (M, L, XL).
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESTHIRD SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTHWissahickon Restoration Volunteers (WRV) will lead a service project from 10 am to noon as part of their on-going reforestation activities. Details and directions to the worksite posted on the WRV website (http://wissahickonrestorationvolunteers.org) at least one week prior to the event. For information and to RSVP, contact WRV at 215-951-0330 x2101 or [email protected]. Day of event, call Ron at 215-483-4348.
EVERY TUESDAYFriends of the Wissahickon volunteers repair and build structures in the Wissahickon from 9 am to 1 pm. If you are handy with tools and like to build, contact FOW Volunteer Coordinator Dan Mercer at [email protected] or 215-247-0417 ext. 107.
EVERY WEDNESDAYWissahickon Service Projects (September through May) 1 pm to 3 pm. Join Crefeld School, Friends of the Wissahickon, and Fairmount Park. Something new every week. Call David Bower at 215-685-0120 for information.
EVERY THURSDAYFriends of the Wissahickon volunteers do repairs within the Wissahickon from 9 am to 1 pm. If you would like to help, contact FOW’s Volunteer Coordinator Dan Mercer at [email protected] or 215-247-0417 ext. 107.
SATURDAYSFriends of the Wissahickon leads a service project at various locations in the Park from 10 am to 2 pm, unless it is a holiday or there is inclement weather. Projects include trail maintenance, invasive weed removal, planting and clean-ups. For information, check the volunteer calendar at www.fow.org/volunteering/upcoming-workdays or contact Volunteer Coordinator Dan Mercer at [email protected] or 215-247-0417 ext. 107.
FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTHWissahickon Restoration Volunteers (WRV) will lead a service project from 10 am to noon as part of their on-going reforestation activities. Project details and directions to the worksite will be posted at www.wissahickonrestorationvolunteers.org at least one week prior to the event. For information and to RSVP, contact WRV at 215-951-0330 x2101 or [email protected].
RUNNING CLUBSEVERY THURSDAYWissahickon Wanderers Trail Run. 4-5 miles. Starts 6:30 pm. at Valley Green Inn. For details call 215-849-9080 or visit www.wanderersrunningclub.org.
EVERY SATURDAYShawmont Running Club. Starts at the end of Forbidden Drive/Northwestern Ave. From the 2nd Saturday in May through the 2nd Saturday in October we start at 7:30AM. From the 3rd Saturday in October through the 1st Saturday in May we start at 8:00AM. Distances are at the discretion of runners. All levels welcome. Emphasis is on fun! www.shawmontrunningclub.com.
HISTORIC RITTENHOUSETOWNHistoric RittenhouseTown offers classes, workshops, and events for individuals and families to learn about the craft of hand papermaking and other aspects of Colonial life at the original Rittenhouse Family Homestead. RittenhouseTown is located on Lincoln Drive at Rittenhouse Street. For information on their programs call 215-438-5711, e-mail [email protected], or visit www.rittenhousetown.org.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 13 1-4PMCandle Making Class with Clarissa Dillon. Learn to make Colonial-style candles in RittenhouseTown’s original 18th century Bake House. Please dress accordingly. Space is limited. Reservations and advance payment are required. Members: $25, Nonmembers: $30
FRIENdS OF THE WISSAHICkONWEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23 6-7:30 PMPhoto Contest Winners Reception. The Cedars House
VALLEY GREEN INNLocated on Forbidden Drive in Wissahickon Valley Park. For more information: http://fow.org/aboutval.php.
YAPPY HOUR Last Tuesday of the Month. Benefits Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS). 5-8 pm. 20% of Inn sales for the evening will be donated to PAWS.
WISSAHICkON VALLEY WATERSHEd ASSOCIATIONWVWA offers many public programs as part of its mission to protect the quality and beauty of the Wissahickon Creek and to enhance life in the Wissahickon Watershed. Located at 12 Morris Road, Ambler, Pennsylvania. For information on their programs, visit www.wvwa.org.
WISSAHICKON ENVIRONMENTAL CENTERPre-Registration is required for all programs (except Apple Pressing Day). Space is limited, so register early! Unless otherwise noted, all programs are FREE, last approximately 90 minutes, & begin at the Tree House. For information and registration, please call us at: 215.685.9285, or email [email protected]
THURSDAY TOTSTHURSDAY, JANUARY 17 1-2 PM WINTER BIRDS Which birds stay here for the winter? Hike to look for our recent “snow birds” and make a snack for the birds to eat.THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 1-2 PM MAPlE TREES & TREATSSearch for the special Sugar Maple trees and taste their fresh sap. Watch how the sap turns into maple syrup. Taste our home-made maple syrup on pancakes. (Due to popular demand, an additional program is scheduled on February 15)THURSDAY, MARCH 21 1-2 PMMUD PIES AND FAIRY DUSTGet your hands in the mud and mix it up with fairy dust from our Wissahickon rocks. Feel the earth warming up. Wear old clothes and get dirty!For Children Ages 3-5. Parents stay with their child. Please register at least one week prior to the program. Suggested donation: $5.00 per session.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 10 AM - 4PM BIRD DAY! PROJECT FEEDERWATCH BIRD COUNT Join the count as we record all of the birds we see at our bird feeders. Enjoy the day in the indoor comfort of the Tree House or from outdoors on the porch. Our count will be added to Cornell University’s Project FeederWatch research. Children can create a bird feeder to take home.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 7 - 9 PM WHAT A HOOT- OWlSIn this indoor/outdoor program, learn about the special adaptations of owls. Dissect an owl pellet, and take a hike to listen for owls. Ages 8 and above. $3.00/person.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 7 PM FUll MOON HIkE Hike in the light of the full moon and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the quiet winter forest. Discover the tree silhouettes against the moonlit sky, listen to the scurrying sounds of nocturnal animals, or maybe hear the hoot of an owl. Warm up around the camp fire with hot chocolate and marshmallows. Preregistration is required. Ages 6 and up.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 11 AM - 1 PM CAMPFIRE COOkINg Enjoy the warm campfire on a cold winter’s day and make your own lunch cooked in the coals- banana boats, brown bears, dough boys, pudgy pies and more! Learn some new recipes to try on your next camping trip. $5.00 per family
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15 10 - 11 AM MAPlE SUgARINg FOR TOTS Spend the morning with your young child discovering how maple syrup is made. Taste the fresh sap as it drips from the tree, and warm up near a fire as the sap is boiled into maple syrup. Top off the day by enjoying our home-made syrup on pancakes. Ages 3-5 $2. /person
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23 11 AM - 3 PM MAPlE SUgAR DAYJoin us on Forbidden Drive (near Northwestern Avenue) for ongoing maple sugaring demonstrations, mini pancakes served with real maple syrup, a taste test of different pancake toppings, as well as freshly made maple candy to taste. Pennsylvania Maple Syrup products will be available for purchase. This event is FREE. All ages. No registration is necessary.
SATURDAY, MARCH 9 1 - 3 PM lET’S gO FlY A kITECelebrate the March winds by making and flying a kite! After creating your kite from recycled materials, we’ll go to the Andorra meadow to try them out! Ages 6 and up.
Future calendar listings for the newsletter may be placed by contacting the
Friends of the Wissahickon at 215-247-0417 or [email protected].
The Calendar of Events in the Wissahickon may
also be viewed on FOW’s website www.fow.org,
which contains updates on our events, including cancellations.CHECk OUR WEBSITE FOR UPdATES WWW.FOW.ORG