LANDENBERG, PA — Representative John A. Lawrence has penned a letter to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Dunn and State Parks Director John Hallas expressing his dissatisfaction with the proposed development plans for Big Elk Creek State Park.
The controversy surfaced after a public meeting on November 6, 2023, where DCNR revealed a development plan that Lawrence claims is “completely contrary to the will of the community and out-of-step with the surrounding area.” The representative also criticized the lack of opportunity for live questions and answers during the meeting.
As a longtime resident of Southern Chester County and a neighbor to the park, Rep. Lawrence voiced his deep-rooted familiarity with the region’s unique history. He highlighted a century-long preservation effort by nature lovers, fox-hunters, and forward-thinking individuals, culminating in the creation of the precious resource that has now come under DCNR’s stewardship.
The park, located in Elk and Franklin townships, was initially acquired as an addition to the White Clay Creek Preserve. The understanding was that the property would be managed as part of the preserve – a semi-wilderness area with limited, low-impact use. As of November 16, 2023, DCNR’s website still lists the property as part of the preserve.
However, the DCNR’s proposed development plan, which Rep. Lawrence suggests turns the park into a “major tourist attraction,” is seen as entirely inconsistent with community desires and the intentions of those who fought to preserve it. The representative has urged the DCNR to publicly commit to managing Big Elk Creek State Park in the same manner as the White Clay Creek Preserve.
In response to the proposed development, Rep. Lawrence has introduced House Bill 1813. This legislation aims to amend the Conservation and Natural Resources Act, further providing for forests and parks, providing for preserves, and further providing for community recreation and heritage conservation. The bill was referred to local government on November 2, 2023.
A petition on Change.org has also been launched opposing the proposed construction of a large campground with RVs, cabins, and/or yurts. The petition argues that such development threatens to disrupt the peaceful environment and endanger 15 rare and endangered plant species.
The representative concluded his letter by expressing his anticipation for a response from the DCNR on this critical issue, emphasizing that “a great deal of controversy, angst, and turmoil can be avoided if DCNR simply announces that they have heard the will of the community, and will revert to maintaining the property as a Preserve.”
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