In line with Chester County’s Climate Action Plan, the Kennett Area Park Authority (KAPA) will be preserving approximately 15 old growth ash trees and replanting 125 native species in the current ash grove adjacent to the disc golf course and the main vehicular entrance of Anson B. Nixon Park.
Efforts are necessary now because approximately 200 dead, diseased, and declining ash trees in this area of the park have fallen victim to the emerald ash boring beetle. The ash grove is also next to the sand volleyball courts, a portion of the running/walking trail, and an area where stream restoration for a tributary of the Red Clay Creek was recently completed. As part of this project, which will improve approximately 2 acres in the park, invasive species will be removed, and brush control will be implemented. These efforts will support the County’s goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect open space through naturally occurring environmental processes like carbon recapture, flood control and reduction of water run-off. Forestry management is part of KAPA’s mission for preservation an open, natural, and largely passive environment that lends itself to both tranquil and rigorous pursuits.
Work by Chadds Ford Tree Service is scheduled to begin on Monday, July 11th. The Borough of Kennett Square and Kennett Township will both be lending support with equipment and labor. Because the work area is near the vehicular entrance, trail, disc golf course, and volleyball courts, access to portions of the park may temporarily be blocked. The main entrance may also be temporarily closed. Park visitors are asked to look for and heed cautionary signs and barricades while tree work is being completed. Additional parking is available by the “Tino” Leto athletic fields at 413 N. Walnut Road.
This project is being funded by Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful’s Healing the Planet Grant Program with support from The GIANT Company. Additional funds are generously being provided by the Chester County Parks + Preservation Partnership Grant Program. Anson B. Nixon Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. For more information about KAPA and the park, and to learn how you can support operations in the park, please visit the park website.
