Preserving & Restoring the Ash Grove at Anson B. Nixon Park: A Forestry Management Project

Ash GroveImage via Kennett Township

KENNETT SQUARE, PA — The Kennett Area Park Authority (KAPA) says it is undertaking an extensive forestry management project in the Ash Grove at Anson B. Nixon Park. The project will involve 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.

Anson B. Nixon Park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, and officials are working to ensure that it stays that way. Recently, they have been focusing their efforts on the Ash Grove, an area of the park where approximately 200 dead, diseased, and declining ash trees have fallen victim to the emerald ash boring beetle. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, 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. This work is necessary now in order to maintain the health of Anson B. Nixon Park for future generations.

Chester County is making efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect open space through forestry management. KAPA, which stands for the preservation of an open, natural, and largely passive environment, is part of this effort. KAPA’s mission is to manage the land in a way that allows for both tranquil and rigorous pursuits while also recapturing carbon, reducing water run-off, and controlling floods. These forestry management efforts will support Chester County’s goals to reduce its impact on the environment. In addition to mitigating climate change, these efforts will also help to preserve open space and provide opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors.

Today, July 11th, work by Chadds Ford Tree Service has begun in Anson B. Nixon Park. 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 a beautiful oasis in the heart of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. The park features rolling hills, lush gardens, and tranquil ponds, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Named after local philanthropist Anson B. Nixon, the park is a beloved community asset that provides residents with a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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