About the Friends

We are an organization devoted to the protection and preservation of the Nescopeck Creek Watershed in Luzerne County, PA.

What is the Nescopeck Creek Watershed?

The Nescopeck Creek Watershed encompasses 174 square miles in the counties of Luzerne, Columbia, and Schuylkill. It is defined by the Nescopeck Creek which is 35 miles in length but also contains 13 other named tributaries totaling 111 miles in length. In addition, there are 106 miles of unnamed streams. Within the watershed are seven critical natural areas, two state game lands, one state park, and twenty-two municipalities.

What problems affect the Nescopeck Watershed?

  • Acid Mine Drainage (AMD)
  • Urban Sprawl
  • Illegal recreational vehicle All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) traffic
  • Illegal dumping sewage
  • Impact of Agriculture
  • Soil erosion loss of forested cover

What are our goals?

To educate the public about the importance of conservation, maintenance of quality fish and wildlife habitat, and natural diversity. To develop and assist in programs that identify, assess and monitor areas of impact within the watershed. To develop and assist in programs for the maintenance and improvement of the watershed.

What do we do?

Working with its partners, the Friends of the Nescopeck is involved in numerous activities including:

  • Stream cleanups
  • Workshops on topics such as stormwater, rain gardens, and acid mine drainage
  • Providing resources and information to local municipalities, groups, and individuals
  • Grant writing
  • Representing watershed interests at local and regional public meetings
  • Participating in festivals and watershed-related events