2023 Resolution list from FOW
Still need some inspo on how to make 2023 a great year? Here’s a list from the staff at Friends of the Wissahickon to make your 2023 more eco-friendly, more outdoors-oriented, and most importantly…fun!
- Minimize your salt usage on sidewalks during the winter months.
When it rains, it drains–which includes road salt! The salt used on sidewalks and roadways eventually ends up in our watershed. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, “…high salt levels negatively impact soil, plants, groundwater, and drinking water that wildlife and humans rely on.” Our friends at TTF Watershed Partnership and Stroud Water Research have successfully elevated this issue. Find out more info about this issue and some salt alternatives here. - Volunteer with us.
FOW has lots of stewardship opportunities to fit your schedule. From volunteering solo as a Wissahero to attending a large-scale cleanup, there are lots of ways to help steward the Wissahickon Valley Park. Find all the ways to volunteer here. - Exploring all 50+ miles of trails in the Wissahickon Valley Park.
Did you know that there are over 50 miles of trails in the Wissahickon Valley Park? This year, make it a goal to trek all 50 miles. You can even accomplish this during our 2023 All Trails Challenge, which kicks off in August, so keep an eye out! You can download our app to take a guided tour, have an interactive map of all the trails, and see points of interest as you do so! - Expand beyond the Wissahickon Valley Park and explore the city.
There are over 300+ neighborhood parks, rec centers, and playgrounds within Philadelphia city limits, which means there is something for everyone. Explore the city in 2023 and visit parks like FDR Park in South Philly or Clark Park in West Philly…who knows, you may find a newfound appreciation for the City of Brotherly Love. - Always bring the principles of Leave No Trace with you.
The principles of Leave No Trace are largely applicable to any outdoor space, including the Wissahickon Valley Park. This 2023, learn how to best minimize your impact when visiting the Wissahickon and bring that knowledge with you on every visit. By doing this, you will be a part of keeping the Wissahickon vibrant, healthy, and accessible for years to come.
Whether you adopt one or all five of these resolutions, you’ll be on your way to making your 2023 more supportive of your local parks.