In 2023, the Borough of Hatboro partnered with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to begin lawn to meadow and lawn to forestry projects in multiple areas of the Borough. Prior to this partnership, Borough Council carefully reviewed each possible project and discussed qualifying areas during public meetings and through a virtual public workshop held on Facebook. Through this program, DCNR converts presently maintained lawn to actively managed upland forest or perennial native meadow which helps to provide clean water and wildlife habitats as well as increases biodiversity in the affected areas. The first area selected for meadow conversion by DCNR is the grassy area of Spring Avenue at the Pennypack Property (also known as the 7 buildable lots).
The meadow itself was installed in fall of 2024. Because it takes time for root systems of plants to become fully established, the meadow can look like regular grass in some areas.
Residents and visitors of Pennypack Park should not enter this meadow area whatsoever as walking, sitting, playing or entering the meadow area in any capacity can damage the fragile root systems of the native plants. This can prevent healthy growth of the meadow and can prevent the meadow from flourishing in the future.
We can understand it can be frustrating to see what looks like an empty, flagged off area while soccer is being played nearby. But what you are looking at is a living resource in its establishment phase. Native meadow plantings need time to develop the deep route systems that make them resilient and self-sustaining. Foot traffic during this period can damage emerging growth and set the planting back significantly. It takes time to establish a new natural resource.
Residents that have any questions or concerns are encouraged to call Borough Hall at 215-443-9100.
A map of the area impacted by the meadow project is shown below for reference. The Borough will be also placing signs in the area reminding residents and visitors to refrain from entering the area.
