About WatershedWork and the Neshaminy Consortium
WatershedWork is the public-facing home of the Neshaminy Consortium, a partnership working to reduce stormwater impacts and improve water quality in the Neshaminy Watershed in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
The Consortium brings together municipalities, the Neshaminy Watershed Association, the Bucks County Conservation District, and other partners to educate the public, support local projects, and help municipalities meet MS4 requirements.
The Neshaminy Watershed
The Neshaminy Watershed is a large watershed in Bucks County. Over many decades, land has shifted from forests and farms to suburbs, roads, and commercial areas. These changes mean more hard surfaces that do not absorb rain. As a result, stormwater runs quickly off roofs, driveways, and streets into storm drains and local streams, carrying pollution and increasing erosion. This affects water quality and habitat for fish, wildlife, and plants in and along the Neshaminy Creek.
Our mission
The mission of the Neshaminy Consortium is to educate the public about stormwater and watershed issues and to provide guidance on what people can do on their own properties and in their communities to help reduce stormwater volume and pollution.
A second part of our mission is to support municipalities in the Neshaminy Watershed as they implement their MS4 programs, especially public education, outreach, and public involvement.
Who we serve
WatershedWork serves two main audiences:
- Residents and community members – People who live, work, or spend time in the Neshaminy Watershed and want to learn how to make their properties and neighborhoods more watershed-friendly.
- Municipal leaders and staff – Municipalities that are responsible for managing stormwater, meeting MS4 requirements, and engaging residents in watershed-friendly practices.
How we work
The Consortium focuses on practical, coordinated efforts. A small core team and dedicated volunteers help design and deliver workshops, events, and educational materials. Municipal partners contribute local knowledge, priorities, and support.
We use a “big tent” approach: people can participate at whatever level makes sense for them. Some residents may attend a single workshop each year, while others may take on projects at home or volunteer regularly. All levels of involvement are welcome.
Looking ahead
Our initial focus is the Neshaminy Watershed in Bucks County. As the model develops and proves successful, there may be opportunities to expand similar collaborative approaches to other areas in Bucks County and across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
As we grow, the core goal remains the same: help people and municipalities work together on practical steps that reduce stormwater impacts and support healthier local streams.