Measuring Success
How we PROTECT
2019
During 2019, public and private organizations undertook various initiatives that helped to implement the Landscapes3 Protect Goal: "Protect and restore critical natural resources to ensure a resilient environment that supports healthy communities." The following success stories highlight some of the more notable initiatives.
Environmental & Energy Advisory Board Established
The Chester County Commissioners announced the formation of the Environmental and Energy Advisory Board (EEAB) in the fall of 2019. Goals of the board include creating a Climate Action Plan for Chester County, as well as focusing on the balance, interplay, and impact of energy-related initiatives and issues. This initiative helps to implement the Landscapes3 recommendation, "Promote benefits of natural resource protection."
Work begins on the Chester County Climate Action Plan
In the summer of 2019, the Planning Commission updated the county's 2010 Climate Action Plan, the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Report, transforming it into a new Climate Action Plan. With assistance from the PA Department of Environmental Protection, Chester County coordinated with Millersville University staff and students to produce a greenhouse gas inventory. This initiative helps to implement Landscapes3 recommendation, "Promote benefits of natural resource protection."
Chester County Clean Energy Tour highlights solar facilities throughout the County
In October 2919, Chester County's Clean Energy Tour, featured "open-houses" for residents to explore local sustainable energy practices such as solar power, wind generation, energy efficiency, and green design. The tour was organized by Chester County Ready for 100, a group which supports local communities in the transition to 100% clean, renewable energy. This initiative helps to implement Landscapes3 recommendation, "Promote benefits of natural resource protection."
TreeVitalize Watersheds Program and Keystone 10-million Trees Partnership
In 2019, the County Conservation District facilitated the planting of nearly 1,900 trees and shrubs, through the TreeVitalize Watersheds Program and Keystone 10-million Trees Partnership. By working alongside landowners, tree buffers were planted by over 100 volunteers along stream corridors, adjacent upland areas, and "naturalized" stormwater basins. This initiative helps to implement Landscapes3 recommendation, "Promote benefits of natural resource protection."