News Flash

The Heart of Uwchlan project marked a significant milestone in November: five years of enhancing local biodiversity, educating the community, and fostering environmental sustainability.

Spearheaded by Toni Gorkin in 2019 as a capstone project for her Pennsylvania Master Naturalist training, the initiative set out to introduce native plants to Baird Park, expand its biodiversity, and educate the citizens of Uwchlan Township on environmentally sustainable gardening practices.

With support from the Uwchlan Township Board of Supervisors and the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC), the project began with small steps—a milkweed garden and a streamside garden—both planted in 2020. Over the years, the gardens expanded to include a wetland garden, pollinator gardens, and the recently christened Magnolia Garden. Grants from the Harriet Jarosh Environmental Education Fund and the Gorkin family enabled the purchase of native seeds, shrubs, and trees. Volunteer members also donated plants to populate the gardens over time. These spaces not only support pollinators but also serve as a hands-on educational resource for residents.

The Heart of Uwchlan has hosted a variety of educational and outreach activities, including winter seed-sowing workshops for Girl Scouts, local schools, and businesses like the Eisai Corporation. The Baird Park Learning Trail was recently updated, equipped with LEGO markers and QR codes that link to an educational handbook for residents to learn about the biodiversity of the park.

In collaboration with other local organizations, the project has supported Earth Day celebrations, helped refurbish garden beds at the Lionville YMCA, and mentored groups to create new green spaces across the township. These efforts have encouraged biodiversity and inspired sustainable gardening practices throughout the community.

Over 1,900 volunteer hours have been logged since the project’s inception, reflecting the dedication of individuals such as Alexa Manning, Kathy Tracy, Jim Warihay, Jackie Pickering, Katharina Henderson, Laura Obenski, several PA Master Naturalists, and many other individuals who came as invited. The project has also catalyzed partnerships, including planting 100 trees in 2023 through the TreeVitalize initiative.

Looking ahead, the team has ambitious plans. Winter seed-sowing workshops are scheduled with local schools and organizations, and efforts to secure Penn State Pollinator Garden certification are underway. A spring event, "PA Native Plant Day," is also on the horizon, aiming to distribute seedlings and provide gardening tips.

“Heart of Uwchlan is a testament to what a community can achieve when it works together for a greener future,” said Gorkin. “As we look to 2025 and beyond, we’re excited to continue growing, educating, and making a lasting impact on our environment.”

For more information, visit the Heart of Uwchlan page on the Uwchlan Township website.