Upper Makefield Township

Trees

Reforestation

In 2007, Upper Makefield Township created a Riparian Restoration and Preservation Grant Program. The township funded the grant with settlement paid by a developer from land development litigation brought by several residents.

This program gives residents funds to reforest riparian areas, repair stream banks, and to establish riparian area easements. Riparian reforestation and restoration help preserve water quality and reduce flooding.

Download a Grant Application.


Riparian Restoration Grant Purposes

Riparian buffers are defined as areas within 200 feet from the bank on either side of a stream. Recipients of Riparian Restoration Grants use the funds for:

  • Planting trees and other restorative vegetation.
  • Long-term maintenance and replacement of tree canopies.
  • Preserving riparian areas by establishing riparian easements.
  • Maintaining and improving stream flow characteristics and stormwater management.
  • Streambank repair and improvements.
  • Protection of riparian plantings from potential deer damage.
  • Construction or professional services related to the above activities.

Submit an Application

If your property contains a riparian buffer that needs repair or preservation work, you can apply for the Riparian Restoration and Preservation Grant. You will be asked to provide:

  • An executed and signed Restoration and Preservation Grant Application.
  • A scope of work.
  • An estimated time period within which the work will be completed.
  • Written authorization to the Township to access the subject property.
  • Written authorization from the property owner for all proposed project activities.
  • A detailed project description.
  • A bona-fide contractor estimate of the scope of work to be finished.
  • A description and plan of long-term maintenance and protection upon completion of the project.

The Township Manager and Township Engineer will review each application and provide comments to the Board of Supervisors, who will decide if the proposal is within the scope of the Riparian Fund.

The Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) will then review the application and provide recommendations to the applicant and the Board of Supervisors for the proposed project.

The Board of Supervisors will review the recommendations of the EAC, and if approved by a unanimous vote, the applicant may enter into a Grant Agreement with Township.