The Borough’s Pollution Reduction Plan (PRP) was first developed in 2015. It is a stormwater management plan used to identify and reduce pollutants, specifically nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment, that are carried by stormwater runoff into local streams and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay. The plan is part of the Borough’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requirements and outlines specific projects and practices the Borough will implement to achieve required pollutant load reductions. By implementing the PRP, the Borough works to improve local water quality, reduce the amount of pollution entering receiving waters, and demonstrate compliance with Pennsylvania’s MS4 and Chesapeake Bay pollution reduction requirements.

Recent Projects

Photo of the buffer featuring newly planted trees
The Biddle Mission Park Riparian Forest Buffer Project was completed in late summer 2025. This project expanded the existing riparian (streamside) forest buffer along the Letort Spring Run, which flows through the park, by relocating the trail farther from the stream. Existing invasive plants were removed from the streambank, and 25 native trees and 66 native shrubs were planted. The area was also seeded with a native meadow seed mix. The expanded forest buffer along the Letort will help stabilize the streambank, shade the water, reduce flooding, and capture more pollutants before they enter the stream.

The meadow planting will reduce the Borough’s mowing requirements and provide additional habitat for native pollinator species.
The Borough is currently retrofitting the existing Orange Street stormwater detention basin near Dickinson Park, converting it from a dry basin into a wet pond designed to improve local water quality. The project will regrade the existing basin, add a forebay and wet pond, and establish native wetland vegetation. These improvements will help capture and reduce pollutants before stormwater enters the Borough’s storm sewer system. The retrofit is expected to provide substantial additional pollution reductions while also reducing mowing frequency and long-term maintenance needs.

Photo of the Orange Street Basin under construction


Beyond improving stormwater management, the project will create new habitat for pollinators, songbirds, and other wildlife while enhancing the natural character of the area surrounding Dickinson Park. Project completion is anticipated in late September 2026.