Residents of Shawmont Valley work towards preserving their corner of the world

Shawmont is a quiet Philadelphia community along the banks of the Schuylkill River in Upper Roxborough with woodlands, open streams, natural terrain, and wildlife habitats. It is also a National Historic District with 18th century farmhouses, residences, and remnants of the early railroads. Neighbors have long been concerned with preserving the fragile ecosystems and historic nature of this urban oasis. Their mission is to:

• Protect and restore the riparian buffer, woodland and meadow habitat.

• Work towards the establishment of a Conservation District in the City and County of Philadelphia.

• Preserve the character and integrity of our community.

• Maintain and improve our quality of life, and the health, safety, and well being of our residents.

As part of that mission, the association has been actively working with the Schuylkill Project, Fairmount Park, and the Philadelphia Water Department developing a Conservation Plan for the Ottinger tract and a section of the bike path that parallels the Schuylkill River. Through a grant secured by the Schuylkill Project, Natural Lands Trust has been engaged to help design a conservation plan for the area. Natural Lands Trust has surveyed the property for soil composition and plant material. Currently they are exploring recommendations and methods for long-term stewardship. Part of the long-range goal is to remove invasives and replace with native plants that offer year-round habitat for wildlife.

To learn more about the efforts of Residents of Shawmont Valley Association, visit their website.