PVTU has partnered with the Longacre family for the better part of the last 25 years on a variety of stream improvement, habitat enhancements, and riparian restoration work on this multi-generation working family farm. The 0.7-mile stretch of West Branch Perkiomen Creek that bisects the farm through Washington Township is currently rated as a Class A Wild Trout Stream and boasts a thriving population of wild brown trout, clean cold water, and healthy ecosystem.

However, it was not always this way.

Like much of the region in the Perkiomen Watershed, centuries of intense agricultural use were not always kind to the environment. Trees and vegetation were cleared; streams were dammed for mills; cattle and livestock were given free rein. Severe bank erosion and bottom degradation, increased water temperature, and sedimentation severely impaired the stream ecosystems.

Through the Longacre family’s gracious commitment and cooperation, PVTU has been fortunate to help restore this stretch of water. New fencing, cattle crossings, replanting of stream side trees and vegetation, and the installation of in-stream structures to mitigate stream bank erosion has dramatically restored the habitat on this small stretch of the West Branch Perkiomen Creek.

PVTU and the Longacre Family will continue to advocate for and protect this important and valuable resource.  Our work on the farm has been recognized by Berks County Conservation District, Schuylkill River Greenways, and PA Trout Unlimited for Outstanding Conservation Work.