Kennett Township land Stewardship Initiative An approach to a comprehensive, balanced, data-based stewardship plan for Kennett Township lands

Land Stewardship Initiative (LSI) Goals Maximize the benefits of open space in the Township. Comprehensive natural resource program to Maintain the aesthetic landscape Insure a healthy environment for residents Contribute to sustainable economic growth Restoration - Management - Land Use

Need for the Land Stewardship Initiative Growth pressures emphasize the need to: Provide guidelines, standards, and metrics for property management Define opportunities for synergy between conservation and development. SOURCE: DVRPC Connections 2040

Township Land Use Current land use includes agricultural, rural, suburban, and urban areas. Township has ~20% Protected Open Space Goal to maintain a healthy and attractive environment while supporting population and economic growth. Appropriate use and management of open land in urban, suburban and rural environments are key elements in achieving this goal.   % of POS HOA’s 62% Land Trusts 30% Township 8% Chester County Planning Commission Landscapes2 map

Kennett Township The existing natural landscape is an integral component of the Township’s character. Strong heritage as an agricultural area based primarily on mushroom and horse farms, and of horticultural appreciation due to the presence of Longwood Gardens. Attractive location for establishment of these businesses and natural landscape- based activities due to proximity to both Philadelphia and Wilmington. Growth in the Township as the nearby urban areas continue to expand must be managed in order to maximize the economic benefit and quality of life for residents.

Maximize Benefits of our Resources Economic Value Potential of Open Space* Enhances home values Filters drinking water and cleans air Furnishes low cost recreation Creates jobs and attracts spending The Land Stewardship Initiative will help define how to maximize these benefits of protected and other open space in the Township. *Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, “Return on Environment” , November 2010. Photos from freerangestock.com

LSI Planned Outcomes Comprehensive data-based assessment of land stewardship in Kennett Township. Standards, Best Practices, and Metrics developed for priority areas of land stewardship within the scope of open space, water resources, and outdoor air quality. Program templates for use by key stakeholders for guidance in implementation of land stewardship recommendations. Township programs in place to actively support landowners, businesses, and residents in implementation of land stewardship recommendations.

Next Steps Reaching out to engaged agencies to gather input. Chester County Open Space Preservation office Chester County Vision Partnership program Chester County Conservation District Brandywine/ Red Clay Alliance Brandywine Conservancy The Land Conservancy for Southern Chester County Delaware Nature Society The Nature Conservancy Natural Lands Trust Prepare proposal for grant funding of the comprehensive assessment and landowner outreach.

Ties into Comprehensive Plan Supports Kennett Township Comprehensive Plan, adopted 12/2/15 Natural Resources: Conserve the natural resources, wildlife habitat, agricultural land, and open spaces that are integral components of the Township’s character. (pg 2-3) Land Use: Direct future growth to the most appropriate areas of the Township and establish a balance between land uses, the transportation network, and the ability of natural systems to support development. (pg 2-2) Supports Chester County Planning Commission Landscapes2 Plan to preserve and enhance the unique character of Chester County landscapes. (pg 16)

Scope Open Space Water Resources Outdoor air quality Rural and agricultural landscape retention Wildlife management, including Greenways. Planting of native species and removal of invasive species Minimization of mowed lawn landscapes in favor of meadows and forests. Preservation of rare and endangered natural features (land and plant). Suburban/Urban agriculture (such as CSA’s, community gardens, small specialized farms and markets, agri-tourism) Water Resources Surface water (streams, ponds) quality Groundwater quality Rain and storm water management Outdoor air quality Minimization of air contaminates Tree cover guidelines and maintenance

Impact on Key Stakeholders Land owners, managers, and developers: provide guidelines, standards, and metrics for property management and acceptable impact of development on natural resources. Business owners: provide guidelines for acceptable environmental impact and an understanding of the type of new businesses that the Township may provide active support to establish. Residents: help maintain and improve property values by ensuring a healthy environment and residential groups, such as Home Owner Associations, will receive guidance in open space design and maintenance. Governing agencies: provide program templates to facilitate interactions with other stakeholders.