Brandywine Valley Association Partners with PA American Water to Offer Watershed Education in Coatesville

Pennsylvania American Water awarded $8,000 to the Brandywine Valley Association (BVA) this week in support of its Environmental Education Programs in Coatesville. Since 2000, BVA’s education programs have reached over 13,000 students per year and have been expanded to off-site locations.

“We are delighted to partner with Pennsylvania American Water to expand education programs that instill an understanding of and appreciation for the natural world in Coatesville elementary and middle school students,” said Jim Jordan, BVA’s Executive Director.

The BVA will adapt its successful programs currently run at the 318-acre Myrick Conservation Center in West Chester to meet the needs of students in the Coatesville Area School District. This new education program for school students will be conducted in Coatesville at the BVA 225-acre Saalbach Farm.

“In our seventh year of the Environmental Grant Program, I’m very proud of how we have partnered with so many community groups that share our dedication to the stewardship of Pennsylvania’s water resources,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy L. Pape.

“The BVA deserves our support for its innovative project to raise awareness about protecting our watersheds.”

With Pennsylvania American Water’s support, the expansion of this program will allow BVA to deliver programs for Coatesville area students featuring hands-on, minds-on activities that meet the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Environment and Ecology. For more information about BVA please visit www.brandywinewatershed.org.

About Brandywine Valley Association

Over the past six decades, Brandywine Valley Association (BVA), has pioneered innovative programs to improve and protect the water in the Brandywine Valley. A leader in local watershed conservation & education, BVA reaches over 13,000 school students per year and offers programs for all ages to promote the restoration, preservation, conservation and enjoyment of their region’s natural resources.

About Pennsylvania American Water

Pennsylvania American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.2 million people. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

In 2011, American Water is celebrating its 125 anniversary with a yearlong campaign to promote water efficiency and the importance of protecting water from source to tap. To learn more, visit www.amwater125.com.