CHESTER, PA — Since its inception, Chester Water Authority (CWA) has not only provided clean, safe, affordable water to its community, but also has embraced a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. From the early days when establishing the Octoraro Reservoir to recent initiatives, CWA has continuously demonstrated its dedication to being good neighbors.
CWA recently collaborated with the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay whose mission is to restore the lands and waters of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This includes restoration work to keep waterways clean and sustain healthy lands.
This work fundamentally aligns with CWA environmental efforts. As part of this collaboration, CWA planted more than 3200 trees across 12 acres of its property. This ambitious project, completed between March 25 and March 26, 2024, aimed to establish a riparian buffer—a strip of vegetation planted alongside streams or water bodies—to safeguard water quality and stream habitat.
“The tree planting initiative exemplifies our ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship,” remarks Noel Brandon, Chairperson of the CWA Board. “By creating riparian buffers, we’re taking proactive steps to protect our waterways and preserve natural ecosystems for generations to come.”
The two-billion-gallon Octoraro Reservoir, owned and operated by CWA, serves as a critical water source for CWA’s ratepayers and a recreational destination for the community. “When the Octoraro Reservoir was first created, it was reported by the Superintendent of Production, Hugh Hetzer, that CWA planted 30,000 trees a year to protect the water and watershed,” explains Livia Smith, Treasurer of the CWA Board. “This was just the beginning of our efforts to ensure the long-term health of our water sources.”
CWA’s dedication to environmental conservation extends beyond the reservoir. With over 2000 acres of land under its care, the authority maintains vital natural habitats that protect water sources and enhance the community’s scenic beauty. This untouched land contributes to the area’s bucolic charm and provides a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, herons, deer, and wild turkeys. Many of which can be seen on CWA’s wildlife cam.
“From fishing, bird-watching and hiking to boating and kayaking, the reservoir is free and open to the community for enjoyment and recreation,” notes Brandon. “It’s a testament to our commitment to not only providing affordable, award-winning water, but also to enriching the lives of the community we serve.”
Through initiatives like tree planting, land conservation, and reservoir management, CWA continues to set the standard for environmental responsibility in the region. As the community looks towards the future, they can take pride in knowing that CWA remains dedicated to safeguarding their water and environment, ensuring a sustainable legacy for future generations.
For more information on volunteer opportunities and general event opportunities through Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, please visit https://www.allianceforthebay.org/get-involved/volunteer/ or https://www.allianceforthebay.org/get-involved/events/.
To learn more about CWA and CWA’s efforts to remain in public hands, go to chesterwater.com or savecwa.org.
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