BUSHKILL TWP., Pa. — A Bushkill Creek restoration project this month will close some of the facilities and a portion of a trail at Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center, state environmental officials announced.
“Increased public interest and use, as well as climate change and more frequent high-water events, have significantly eroded the streambank at Jacobsburg,” said John Hallas, state parks director, in a news release. “This project will rebuild the creek back to the original width and bank heights it once had.”
The project, which begins today, includes rebuilding the stream bank as well as restructuring two existing stream access points — and creating a third, to help distribute foot traffic — along the lower Henry’s Woods Trail. Officials said using stacked field stone will allow increased public access to the creek while also protecting the stream bank from compaction and erosion.
While the work is underway, the bridge and restroom facilities at the center’s main parking lot, along with a portion of the lower Henry’s Woods Trail, will be closed.
Rob Neitz, a natural resource program supervisor with the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, said the project could take two to three months, weather depending. It will cost just over $700,000.
Impacts will be felt this winter, according to the release.
While portions of the Henry’s Woods Trail will be closed, an alternate hike is available. The bridge to access the trail and the restroom facility will also be closed.
"We look forward to increasing visitor access to the creek at Jacobsburg and continuing to educate future generations on stream habitat and health."John Hallas, state parks director
“We know this work will have an impact on visitors,” Hallas said. “But this timeframe is best for the creek, other wildlife and our spring trout stocking.
“We look forward to increasing visitor access to the creek at Jacobsburg and continuing to educate future generations on stream habitat and health.”
The Bushkill Creek begins at the foot of Blue Mountain in Bushkill Township and flows for about 22 miles south to its confluence with the Delaware River. It’s designated as a high quality coldwater fishery, and its watershed encompasses 80 square miles.
Restoration work on the Bushkill has been ongoing throughout the Lehigh Valley.
Wildlands Conservancy, along with other stakeholders, in October celebrated the large-scale rehabilitation project on the creek near Easton, underway since 2021. It included the removal of five dams, the last of which was razed over the summer.
Officials urged anyone planning to hike the area to go to the Jacobsburg website or call the park office at 610-746-2801.
