March 13, 2000

Sheltered from the public for decades, a 2000-acre portion of Brush Valley known as Trout Run has been receiving a lot of attention lately. . and rightfully so.  Despite environmental issues and public opposition, Northumberland County Commissioners want to destroy an important part of our community's watershed for economic development.  However, reckless development does not render economic growth.

A group of concerned citizens has established the Brush Valley Preservation Association.  We believe that developing and destroying this watershed is environmentally irresponsible and not in the best interest of our community.  With the support of the PA Chapter of the Sierra Club, we as an association promise to work to save this land from development.  Our mission is to inform the public on current issues relating to Brush Valley, organize activities to promote public support, address concerns and opinions of the community, and actively pursue funding from government agencies and private foundations to keep Brush Valley in its natural state.

Development is not the only choice for Brush Valley.   This piece of land contains a 35 million gallon lake ("Ice Dam"), natural sand springs, wooded land, wildlife, and possibly endangered species.  We have already researched funding possibilities to preserve Brush Valley for the entire community to enjoy as a public park.  Grants are available to acquire this land to use for public recreational activities (e.g., hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, etc.).   Numerous environmental groups, public agencies, and conservancies have expressed interest in working with our organization.

We believe that the community as a whole has the right to decide what is best for our area.  The Brush Valley Preservation Association can't save Brush Valley alone.  It is very important to show that we have public support.  If you are interested in getting involved or would just like more information, please email brushvalley@mail.com or write c/o Brush Valley Preservation Association, P.O. Box 301, Shamokin, PA  17872.

Brush Valley Preservation Association
Executive Officers:
John Faraguna, President
Nicole Dormer, Vice-President/Secretary
Joe Rebar, Treasurer