Cumberland Valley Trout Unlimited (CVTU) has been awarded a $7,000 grant from the Trout Unlimited Embrace-A-Stream Program to complete Phase III of the Yellow Breeches Stream Improvement near the Wittlinger Nature Preserve. Phases I and II were completed in August 2019. Phase III is scheduled to be completed in August 2021. CVTU together with its mission partners; Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, South Middleton Township, Dickinson College Farm, and the Yellow Breeches Anglers and Conservation Association submitted a grant application in July 2020. After a thorough review by the Embrace-A-Stream Grant Review Committee, CVTU was awarded the maximum grant amount for a construction project.
CVTU continues to apply for grants from other sources. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has committed $3,000 toward Phase III along with another $3,000 of in-kind labor. CVTU is awaiting responses from the Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for additional grant funding. Phase III is estimated to cost nearly $28,000 and CVTU is committed to funding that portion of the project not covered by grants or financial aid.
This is one example of the efforts CVTU continues to undertake in the face of COVID 19 restrictions and limitations on our ability to raise funds. A study of the LeTort Spring Creek is ongoing, which should yield actionable stream improvement projects in the future. Funding will be a major challenge to address issues on the LeTort as well.
With that said, CVTU is planning an on-line auction of items that were originally to be offered at the 2020 Limestoner. There will be a number of fine items, trips, and activities available in the auction. Please support CVTU in this and all other endeavors to improve and protect the cold water resources of the Cumberland Valley.