Community Engagement
Featured Interns
Noah Buckwalter
Spring 2022
Chester Ridley Crum Watersheds Association
Newtown Square, PA
Noah interns with the Chester Ridley Crum Watersheds Association (CRC). Regarding his experience, Noah said, “I help the nonprofit perform tree plantings around the three watersheds, as well as maintenance events to ensure the trees' survival long after planting. At these events, CRC works with community volunteers to dig, weed, mulch, and place cages around various species of native trees. Planting native trees ensures that the local ecosystem has a variety of helpful plants, and less harmful invasive species.
While it may seem that there are already enough trees in the watersheds, their placement is key. Planting trees near local streams and rivers is important to keep them healthy. The roots of these trees catch and filter stormwater runoff that brings fertilizers and harmful chemicals into the waterway. The streams and rivers that CRC services are a main source of local drinking water, so helping the environment is also helping our neighbors!
I am also currently helping CRC reach out to local governments and attempt to build relationships leading to new tree planting sites. The more areas that we are able to improve with tree plantings, the safer and healthier our water will become. I love getting outside, working with my hands, and making a difference in the local community."