Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Shusterman announces $1.56 million in DCNR grants

Shusterman announces $1.56 million in DCNR grants

Rep. Melissa Shusterman    October 7, 2026 | 3:30 PM

PAOLI, Oct. 7 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, said she is proud to announce that $1.56 million has been awarded to fund two projects in her legislative district.

Both projects are funded by the Department of Conservations and Natural Resources’ Community Conservation Partnerships Program Grants. The program intends to build connections between Pennsylvanians and the outdoors by supporting recreational improvements, natural resource conservation, and community revitalization efforts.

Shusterman said $1.5 million of the funding is going to the Willistown Conservation Trust’s Rushton Woods Preserve Expansion project to secure 20 additional acres while also significantly enhancing public access and connectivity to surrounding open lands. 

The remaining $60,000 is going to the Sedgley Farms preservation project in Schuylkill Township to create a master site development plan that will help identify and prioritize site improvements and recreational activities in the park.

“Rushton Woods and Sedgley Farms play an important role in our communities. They support environmental health, protect our natural resources, and provide a space for residents to connect with each other and nature,” Shusterman said. “I'm grateful to DCNR for recognizing the importance of preservation and conservation of these spaces in our communities and all across the commonwealth.”

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