Since 1984, the nonprofit Darby Creek Valley Association has been working diligently to protect and restore the Darby Creek Watershed: a network of rivers and streams that make up the Delaware River Basin, which provides drinking water for 15 million people.

Dedicated to the enhancement, protection, and education of the watershed and its resources such as water, wildlife, and historical sites, the association is made up of a group of thoughtful, committed citizens who are diligently working to change their small part of the world.

On April 13, the group’s efforts will focus on the 35th annual clean-up of the areas surrounding Darby Creek. From 9 AM-12 PM, rain or shine, the DCVA will be coordinating volunteers across four counties (Delaware, Chester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia) and nearly 40 clean-up sites to attempt to surpass the 5.79 tons of trash removed during last year’s clean-up event.

There are four clean-up sites in Chester County and dozens in Delaware County. Click here for a specific list.

The DCVA’s clean-up began in its founding year, 1984. The association was founded in a collective effort from concerned citizens who banded together in an attempt to rehabilitate and preserve the valuable watershed. Thirty-five years later, the hard work, tenacity, and life-long bond of this group of visionaries has had a direct impact on the quality and cleanliness of the water and open spaces in the watershed.

“This group was founded to address the needs around water quality in Darby Creek, Cobbs Creek, and other tributaries,” said David Bennett, a former chair of the clean-up event and a current board member. “The first event was the (now annual) clean-up, which began in 1984. Since then, the organization has grown and is active in environmental pursuits, science, education, and water testing.”

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