April 2012

ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE INVENTORY

Created by the

HELLAM TOWNSHIP ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

YORK COUNTY

The views expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Hellam Township Supervisors.

Table of Contents

Page Number 1. Introduction………………………………………………………………… 1

Managing Growth in Pennsylvania………...…………………………………… 1

Environmental Resource Inventory……………………………….…………… 2 How to Use This ERI.………………………………………………………….. 3

2. Natural Environment…………………………………………………..….. 9

Physiographic Overview……………………………………………………….. 10 Geology…………………………………………………………………………. 10 Topography……………………………………………………………………... 11 Soils…………………………………………………………………………….. 12 Water Resources………………………………………………………………... 13 Waters and Wetlands…………………………………………………………… 14 Floodplains……………………………………………………………………... 17 Groundwater…………………………………………………………………… 17 Stormwater Management………………………………………………………. 29 Biotic Resources……………………………………………………………….. 21 Forests and Woodlands………………………………………………………… 22 Ways to Protect Environmental Resources…………………………………….. 24

3. Cultural and Historic Resources………………………………………….. 33

Archaeological Resources………………………………………………………. 33 Historic Preservation……………………………………………………………. 33 Parks and Recreation……………………………………………………………. 35 Options for Preserving Cultural Resources……………………………………... 38

4. Appendices

A. Restricted Development Map of Hellam Township B. Natural Features and Preserved Area Map of Hellam Township C. 1938 Aerial Photo of Hellam Township D. 2008 Aerial Photo of Hellam Township E. Soils Map of Hellam Township (revised 2012) F. Prime Agricultural Soils of Hellam Township (revised 2012)

ii

Thanks

Hellam Township EAC

A large amount of input was provided as this document progressed through a host of revisions. Among others, the members of the Hellam Township EAC would like to thank:

. The Hellam Township Board of Supervisors

. The Hellam Township Zoning Officer

. Pennsylvania Environmental Council, for an introduction to the ERI concept and framework

. York County Planning Commission

. Farm & Natural Lands Trust of York County

. Mason Dixon Trail System

iii

Introduction -1

An environmental resource inventory plays an important role in protecting a community’s resources. An environmental inventory is specifically mentioned in Pennsylvania’s EAC-enabling legislation (Act 148, as amended) as a task to be undertaken by an EAC. This chapter describes the purpose of this inventory. It also lists ways it could be used to meet Hellam Township planning objectives.

ellam Township is shaped by the Susquehanna River. It cuts along the eastern boundary of the township and has influenced the geology, H geography and history of the area more than any other factor.

Protecting the Susquehanna River watershed and its neighboring lands will need to involve many people: local elected officials and various township boards, the Susquehanna River Keeper, Hellam Township’s neighboring municipalities, York County, the State, the various Authorities which affect the setting, and the citizens of Hellam Township.

Hellam Township’s beauty and landscape have attracted people who enjoy this character and are quite concerned about protecting it. In 2005 the Board of Supervisors voted to create an environmental advisory council (EAC), which has been actively pursuing its responsibilities regarding the protection of Hellam Township’s environmental resources. Concern about the environment is quite high among residents, the county and regional agencies, and by the State. This concern is essential. Managing Growth in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania municipalities face the important challenge of managing growth and development while protecting important natural and cultural resources. Pennsylvania municipalities have tools that allow them to manage growth.

Pennsylvania’s Municipalities Planning Code gives local municipalities the power to create land use controls so that:

. Roads, sewer facilities, water supplies, schools and other public service facilities are adequate to serve new development.

1

. New residential development provides for a mix of housing types that are affordable to all families.

. New development is located on appropriate soils, and development patterns respect slopes, woodlands, wetlands, flood plains, aquifers, natural and historic resources and other natural features of the municipality, to minimize adverse environmental impacts.

. Development patterns do not displace nor restrict agricultural activities or occur on prime agricultural land. Environmental Resource Inventory

An environmental resource inventory documents the physical features and charac- teristics of a community. An environmental resource inventory uses a variety of media, such as maps, photographs, and text reports, to describe resources. Maps might show flood plains, streams and rivers, boundaries of the study area, land use or land cover,1 wetlands, natural areas, historic buildings and many other features. Text could describe the water quality issues affecting the streams, or describe historical and natural factors that contributed to a robust farm community. Environmental resource inventories can also include scenic and cultural resources, especially those resources that are important to the local history, scenic character, and ‘sense of place.’

Creating an environmental resource inventory is a task specifically mentioned in Act 148, as amended, the state legislation that authorizes EACs. In addition, the Hellam Township comprehensive plan recommends preparation of an official ERI and comprehensive natural features map. This environmental resource inventory represents this effort.

Environmental resource inventories serve multiple purposes. They:

. establish a baseline record of resources, from which environmental change can be tracked and observed.

1 Land cover is a term which refers to what is physically observed on the ground. Thus land cover might be categorized as deciduous forest, cropland, lawn, meadow or parking lot. Land use refers to how the land is actually being used by humans. Land use categories could include commercial, residential, recreation, transportation uses, and others. The land cover for a parking lot is pavement, while its land use could be commercial, industrial, educational, residential (for an apartment, for example), or some other land use. Land cover has a slightly more scientific basis and purpose. We can tell how much rainwater will be recharged to aquifers by looking at the land cover. Land use is generally of interest to planners, as they consider various human needs and attempt to balance sometimes competing needs.

2

. aid understanding of the environmental system, both as to its individual parts and how it functions as a whole. Understanding environmental systems is critical to those charged with protecting it: the local elected leaders; local and regional planning commissions; and environmental advisory councils.

. promote awareness of a community’s unique character.

. highlight those resources that might be threatened and which deserve our immediate attention.

This environmental resource inventory was first drafted between March 2006 and June 2007 and officially approved by the Board of Supervisors on November 1, 2007. Project participants included the Hellam Township EAC, other interested community members, and staff from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC). The current document is an update of the November 2007 ERI.

This written text represents only a portion of an effective inventory. The other piece is a collection of mapped data layers, used in a geographic information system (GIS). GIS is a combination of specialized software and digital mapped layers. GIS layers2 can be used to create maps, but the information also contains extensive detail not typically found on a paper map. For example, layers can show not only where wetlands are, but the type of wetlands, their size, and condition. It can also show where wetlands are located relative to other resources, such as deci- duous forests, streams, or parcels. GIS enables a close analysis of a specific resource by zooming in or a ‘big picture’ view of how all a community’s resources relate to one another by zooming out. Using the Township’s GIS capabilities and layers provided by the York County Planning Commission, the EAC helped to create the maps in Appendices A and B. How to Use This ERI

This ERI represents a rich collection of data that will serve as a valuable tool in managing Hellam Township’s environmental resources. To make the most out of this information, think about how the data will help you to meet your planning objectives and implement projects. This ERI—the text, mapping products, and GIS data—is the ideal tool.

Hellam Township’s EAC, township staff, planning commission, and board of supervisors should use this ERI to:

. evaluate existing ordinances for their protection of the resources, and where appropriate, enhance them for resource protection;

2 A ‘layer’ is a means for organizing mapped information. Layers contain information for related features. Thus, a hydrology layer would include characteristics of all water bodies: ponds, lakes, rivers, and shorelines.

3

. adopt new and innovative ordinances;

. enhance the site design review process so that resources are clearly considered during the development process;

. review, and if necessary, update the municipal comprehensive plan, using the findings of this ERI;

. work with neighboring municipalities, York County, land conservation organizations and others concerned about the township’s resources;

. integrate geographic information systems database use into Township planning functions and train EAC members and other Township bodies in the use of the GIS;

. continue to document local resources and build GIS layers;

. champion resource protection through non-regulatory means, such as Earth Day celebrations, stream assessments, buffer restoration projects.

Ways to use this inventory for these tasks are discussed below.

 Recommendation: Review, and If Necessary, Update the Township’s Comprehensive Plan

The comprehensive plan provides the framework for planning in Pennsylvania. Although a comprehensive plan is not required by the Pennsylvania Municipal- ities Planning Code, having an adopted plan in place legitimizes any regulatory ordinances that are consistent with it. Local municipalities do have power to control the use of land and how land is developed through regulatory ordinances. Ordinances that are based on, and consistent with a comprehensive plan are more likely to be upheld in court were they to be challenged. By far, though, the most important reason for drafting and adopting a comprehensive plan is to set the direction for the community’s future.

Hellam Township has had a Comprehensive Plan since 1975. Updating of the Township’s Comprehensive Plan is an on-going process. The current Plan, adopted in May 2002, is in the process of being updated to make it consistent with changes made to and proposed for the Zoning Ordinance, SALDO and Official Map.

This environmental resource inventory will prove invaluable for future revisions to the Township’s comprehensive plan.

4

It is recommended that the EAC review any future revisions that the Township Planning Commission may propose for the Comprehensive Plan, especially those that could affect natural and historic resources.

 Recommendation: Strengthen Existing Ordinances

One important way that the ERI could be used is to evaluate and strengthen the Township’s existing natural resource protection ordinances. Ordinances directly influence Hellam Township’s future.

Zoning Ordinance. The zoning ordinance regulates how land may be used; it is always in effect for a piece of land. A zoning officer must ensure that any changes in the use of land are within the stipulations of the zoning ordinance. Zoning ordinances generally create zoning districts within which specific land uses are permitted or excluded. Updating Hellam Township’s Zoning Ordinance is an ongoing process. It is recommended that the EAC review any future proposed revisions that could affect natural and historic resources.

The Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) comes into play only when a tract is subdivided into smaller tracts, or where a ‘development’ is proposed on a tract. The precise definition of ‘land development’ varies from community to community and is spelled out in the SALDO itself. Generally, land development is defined to include the construction of any commercial, institu- tional, education or other building, but only residential construction when a mini- mum number of units are proposed, for example, three or more new residences are constructed.

Hellam Township’s current SALDO was adopted in 1996 and has been amended several times since then. It is recommended that the EAC review any proposed revisions to the SALDO that could affect natural and historic resources.

Stand-alone ordinances can regulate a variety of activities. Many Pennsylvania municipalities are adopting stand-alone ordinances to protect natural resources. A stand-alone natural resource protection ordinance has the advantage that it catches activities that might fall beneath the purview of the zoning ordinance and which do not occur as part of a land development or subdivision.

Hellam Township has a Storm Water Management Ordinance (SWM) that was adopted in September 1996 and revised in 2012. The purpose of a storm water management ordinance is to minimize problems that are associated with storm water runoff and soil erosion and sedimentation both during and upon completion of a land disturbance activity, by regulating activities which cause such problems. In addition, the ordinance helps to preserve natural drainages, encourage groundwater recharge, maintain and/or improve the flow and quality of streams

5

and watercourses and preserve and/or restore the flood carrying capacity of streams and watercourses.

The Township adopted a Timber Harvesting Ordinance (November 2007) to provide regulation for timber harvesting activities in order to minimize the potential for negative environmental impacts resulting from improper tree harvesting activities, as well as to protect the physical property of adjacent landowners and encourage the long-term production of forest crops and benefits.

A Floodplain Management Ordinance was adopted in 2009. Its intent is to minimize danger to public health by protecting water supply and natural damage, encourage the utilization of appropriate construction practices in order to prevent or minimize flood damage in the future, reduce financial burdens imposed on the community, its governmental units and its residents by preventing excessive development in areas subject to flooding and comply with federal and state floodplain management requirements.

Hellam Township should consider enhancing any stand-alone ordinances, or creating new ones, to ensure that natural features are protected. Examples are included throughout the text. It is recommended that the EAC review any revisions to existing stand-alone ordinances that could affect natural or historic resources.

This ERI and attached GIS data would be invaluable as existing ordinances are evaluated and revised or new ordinances are proposed. For example, the GIS data could show those properties that would be affected by an ordinance regulating clear cutting on wooded properties larger than 25 acres. The GIS data could be used to show those woodlands with large interiors for a given perimeter. Patterns of prime agricultural soils can be easily seen.

 Recommendation: Enhance the Site Design Review Process and Include an EAC Role

The site design review process provides the municipality with some control over the development process. Ideally the site design review process provides an opportunity for a developer and the municipality to sit down together and jointly determine how development will occur. The developer represents the interests of the land owner and the architect or designer, while the governing body represents the interests of the community.

An EAC can greatly help in the development review process. The EAC should work closely with the planning commission and supervisors. Proposals should be consistent with the comprehensive plan and must be consistent with municipal ordinances. The site plan review process can ensure consistency with ordinances and also highlight any deficiencies in ordinances. The earlier that changes are

6

caught in the review process the better. The use of a site review checklist, sketch plan or concept review will help catch potential problems early in the process and will save the municipality and the developer time and expenses.

Hellam Township has, in the past, used a checklist during the site review process, and it is recommended that this procedure be standard. The Zoning Officer can use this list to catch inconsistencies with ordinances and deficiencies in applications before the development process proceeds further. The EAC can help to create or amend this checklist. The checklist, along with an illustrated guidebook, can streamline the application process and help ensure that a development plan is consistent with township plans and regulations. The EAC can use its own site review check list to identify potential environmental issues. The ERI can provide a reasonable expectation of what to find in an area. To assist the Township staff, the EAC can work closely with the developer and conduct site walks, when needed.

 Recommendation: Adopt New and Innovative Zoning

Since the 1950s residential development has tended to spread structures evenly over entire tracts of land. Requiring each building to occupy some minimum acreage—one and two acres were standard—was seen as a way to ensure that development did not overwhelm the land’s capacity for development. Unfortunately, inflexibility in this process often required that natural environmental features be destroyed. Wetlands, woodlands, wildlife habitat, stream channels were seriously degraded or eliminated to make way for ‘progress.’

Traditional zoning also tends to separate uses and create sprawling, segregated communities with little protected open space. Hamlets, villages and small towns were effectively ‘outlawed’ by zoning codes.

Fortunately, there are several zoning techniques and tools now available to municipalities that can encourage better development practices, the preservation of open space, and mixing of uses when appropriate. Hellam Township has adopted a number of these techniques and tools as part of its current Zoning Ordinance, using many of the guidelines from Guiding Growth (Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Inc., Philadelphia. PA, 1993). These include the following: Restricted Development District Overlay – protects areas of Township with natural features and includes steep slopes, wetlands, riparian buffer areas, floodplains, woodlands, streams and unique geological features (Appendix A)

7

Continuous Canopy Woodland Corridor – protects the continuous woodland corridor along the northern border of the Township (as designated on Township Official Map) Floodplain Overlay District – protects areas of floodplain subject to and necessary for the containment of flood waters TDR Sending District Overlay District – protects prime agricultural soils by allowing transfer of development rights to receiving areas elsewhere in the Township (Appendix A) Village Overlay District – allows flexible design options to encourage preservation of important natural and cultural features and sets requirements for open space design in the Residential Zone [this is a form of ‘conservation design’ or clustering of development to preserve open space] Historic Overlay District – encourages preservation of locally important architectural, historical, archaeological and/or cultural elements and sites by recommending their protection and encouraging responsible design in areas where they are located Lincoln Highway Corridor: Special Regulations – establishes special regulations governing development along this corridor that give due consideration to preserving the historic and rural character of this historic route. Density bonus in the Rural Agricultural Zone – allows for additional development as bonus for greater than required protection of natural and cultural features, donation of perpetual easements for identified sensitive environmental features or areas with severe development constraints, creation of trails or other recreational facilities or rehabilitation of identified historic structures and archaeological features.

It is recommended that the EAC be invited to review any proposed revisions or additions to the Zoning Ordinance which could affect natural or historic resources.

We now turn to the inventory itself. For each environmental resource, we describe the resource, discuss its relevance to planning, and list some steps the EAC might wish to take, in addition to those presented above, to protect these resources.

8

Natural Environment- 2

ellam Township’s natural environment is rich in resources. These include its productive agricultural soils; its extensive woodlands, particularly those in the H Susquehanna River watershed; its streams, floodplains and wetlands; and its varied biotic resources. As pressures for new development increase in the Township, sensitive natural features can be irreparably damaged or destroyed unless proper steps are taken to insure their protection and preservation. This inventory delineates and maps the Township’s natural resources, with particular attention to their importance and protection.

The Susquehanna River bounds the northern and eastern edges of the Township for approximately 8 miles. While much of the woodlands near the Susquehanna River have been cleared in Pennsylvania to make way for agriculture, industry and housing, the presence of a relatively intact riparian buffer and near-river woodland corridor in Hellam Township is an important exception. The buffer and corridor connect the natural areas of the Township with the exceptional habitat areas found further downstream and allow safe passage for woodland species that reside primarily in the woods but move along the river.

All of Hellam Township drains into the Susquehanna River, the majority through a small third-order stream, Kreutz Creek. The majority of the Kreutz Creek watershed is contained within Hellam Township. A portion of the Codorus Creek drainage is also located in the Township, in its northwestern sector. The stream valleys of these creeks and their tributaries create a distinct topography, and this interconnected system of water resources has great importance as the source of the Township’s groundwater and water supply, as well as creating wetlands, vernal pools and other habitat for water-related plants and animals.

The woodlands and natural areas in the township support a rich array of flora and fauna. The presence of many biologically diverse natural habitats for plant and animal species not only enhances scenic beauty but also is critical to maintaining a healthy natural environment. These habitats serve as vital reservoirs for preserving the genetic diversity of plant and animal species and support the complex and sensitive web of interrelationships that wildlife ecosystems are dependent upon. The woodland corridors in the Township, in particular, are of major significance from an ecological point of view; their large, contiguous, relatively undeveloped areas with unfragmented ecosystems make them an important native biodiversity protection area. Over 300 acres of Rocky Ridge County Park, located in the western end of the Township, make up the largest protected

9

area in the Township. This area is almost entirely wooded and has mature stands of chestnut oak and white oak trees dominating its forest.

The following sections will expand upon the above topics. They provide companion text for the accompanying maps and digital databases which are a part of this Environmental Resource Inventory and serve as a prelude to specific suggestions and recommendations for protection of environmental resources in the Township.

Physiographic Overview

Physiography is a term used to describe large-scale patterns of geology, topography, ele- vation, aspect (direction), and vegetation. All of Hellam Township lies within the Piedmont physiographic province of the Appalachian Mountains belt and consists of three parts: the Hellam Hills, the York-Wrightsville (Conestoga) Valley and the South Hills. Both the Hellam Hills and the South Hills are part of the Southeastern Piedmont Uplands. The Piedmont physiographic province is characterized by gently rolling topography dissected by waterways, some of which form prominent ridges and deep narrow stream valleys.

The Chickies formation, which underlies most of the Hellam Hills, provides some of the first geologic uplift lands that are encountered coming inland from the coast. They boast a diversity of natural flora and fauna in the woodland corridor in the hills which border the river. Geology

A region’s underlying geology has a powerful influence on a community. Rock forma- tions influence the soils that were created; the minerals and materials that can be extracted; the amount of groundwater available; and the buildings, roads and railroads that can be constructed. Rocks erode at different rates. This creates the local terrain, whether that is steep and rocky, gently or steeply rolling, or essentially flat. This is especially true in Hellam Township, where the relatively flat limestone valley in the center of the Township lies between hill formations to the north and south.

The geology of Hellam Township has a long and complex history. The Township contains some of the oldest rock formations in the state, dating back to late Precambrian times (over 600 million years ago). These volcanic rocks are all found in the Hellam Hills. Also making up the Hellam Hills is the slightly younger Cambrian-period Chickies Formation, mostly quartizites and quartz conglomerates. Several outstanding scenic geologic features in the Township are a part of the Chickies Formation; these include Wildcat Run Cliffs and Gorge, Roundtop, Hellam Point and Schull’s Rock. The Hellam conglomerate of the Chickies Formation is a unique sedimentary rock with embedded quartz pebbles and is the oldest sedimentary rock in Pennsylvania. Chimney Rock, which consists of spectacular twin pinnacles of Hellam conglomerate, is a unique

10

geologic feature in the Township. The Chickies Formation also underlies the South Hills in the Township. Other formations which make up the Hellam Hills and the South Hills are the Harpers Formation, a phyllite, and the Antietam Formation, a hard quartzite similar to the Chickies rocks.

The York-Wrightsville (Conestoga) Valley which lies between the Hellam Hills and the South Hills is underlain by limestones and dolomites. The Conestoga Formation, an impure limestone which underlies roughly 80% of the Valley, is parent to rich soils of the Conestoga series which are highly prized for their agricultural yields. Many of the prime agricultural soils in the Township are located on the Conestoga Formation. The Ledger Formation contains dolomites in two narrow bands in the Township; it is highly prone to sinkholes. The carbonate rocks of these formations are characterized by their weak resistance to erosive forces, which can create extensive subsurface solution channels. While these are a source of well water, they can also create significant sink hole problems and can become easily contaminated by effluent containing agricultural fertilizers, potentially polluting wells and degrading water sources downstream.

Although mineral resources, particularly limestones, dolomites and iron ore, have been quarried in the Township in past centuries, currently the only active mineral producer is County Line Quarry, which operates an extensive quarry in the South Hills in the southern part of the Township. Products include construction aggregates, fill and agricultural products from dolomite, quartizite and phyllite.

Topography

Hellam Township’s topography is quite varied. The highest elevation in Hellam Township is approximately 1,000 feet above sea level, along the ridge which forms the central and northern section of the Township in the Hellam Hills. Other high points in the Hellam Hills are a 1017-foot summit at the eastern end of Rocky Ridge County Park, Roundtop at 800 feet and several 700-1000 feet rises. The lowest elevation in Hellam Township is found along the southeastern boundary, where Susquehanna River leaves the Township, at about 215 feet above sea level.

Etching the landscape in Hellam Township is Kreutz Creek and its tributaries, which cut through the broad, gently rolling York-Wrightsville Valley in the center of the Township and form prominent ridges and deep narrow stream valleys in the hills and foothills.

There are many steeply sloped areas throughout the Township (Appendix A). They are found especially along the Susquehanna River and the Codorus Creek and also in the South Hills. Steeply sloped areas are difficult for farmers to cultivate. Hence they often remained undisturbed and deeply wooded. This vegetation is vitally important to protecting the soils on these slopes. Were the vegetation to be removed, the soils would be easily washed away, leaving a denuded land area and contributing to sedimentation in streams. The roots of the trees and shrubs help this soil stay in place. Thus, steeply sloped areas should not be disturbed, including any removal of trees and shrubs.

11

Soils

Knowing the type of soil on a site can indicate the likely presence of both flood plains and wetlands, suggest appropriate land uses, indicate whether septic systems will function or not, show how well rainwater will be recharged to underlying aquifers, suggest to farmers the best crops to plant, and indicate what vegetation would grow if the site were permitted to revert to natural conditions. Some soils have constraints for building development, such as steep slopes, shallow depth to bedrock, flooding, wetness and slow percolation rates. Others, that are relatively level, rich in chemical nutrients, well-drained, resistant to erosion and with good permeability to air and water, are most suitable for agriculture. It is imperative to know soil types present in the Township and their characteristics, so that land use planning will be appropriately guided and responsible.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has discontinued the use of soil associations to identify soils in Pennsylvania and has instead re-created the soils data, creating soil types using aerial photographs, soil samples, etc. The new soil types do not match the soil associations which were used in the 1963 Soil Survey of York County and which had been commonly used for many years. The 2002 Hellam Township Comprehensive Plan Update used soils newly created by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Since its adoption, the Soil Survey of York County was issued in 2003. With this release, some soil types that were previously considered Prime Agricultural Soils have been reclassified. Appendices E and F show maps of the current soil types and prime agricultural soils, respectively, in Hellam Township. The EAC should periodically contact the NRCS for additional soil attribute data.

Prime agricultural soils are found primarily in the south-central portion of the Township in the Kreutz Creek Valley, with some also in scattered areas in the Hellam Hills to the north. Prime agricultural soils are defined as those with an agricultural rating of Class I, II or III, according to the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. These soils make up an estimated one-half of the Township and include sizable blocks of fertile farmland that should be protected. Most of this farmland is contained in the TDR Sending Zone (see Appendix A).

The wooded, steeply sloped areas in the northern section of the township and along its southern boundary are considered mostly non-productive agricultural land. Many of these soils have severe building constraints (soils with severe building constraints are listed in the table on p. 26 of the 2002 Hellam Township Comprehensive Plan Update). The woodlands which cover much of these areas need protection to prevent erosion and to retain watershed capabilities.

Soils which characterize floodplains and wet areas in the Township occur mainly along the Susquehanna River and along streams. Activities which disturb these soils may cause

12

erosion of stream banks and excessive silting of waterways and should be regulated to protect soil resources in these areas.

Water Resources

The Susquehanna River meanders along the northern and western edges of Hellam Township, with the entire township draining into it. Approximately 8 miles of the Susquehanna falls within Township limits. With an average daily rush of 22 billion gallons of water, the Susquehanna is the largest contributor of freshwater to the Chesapeake Bay.

The Chesapeake Bay was formed over 10,000 years ago when what was then the Susquehanna River was flooded by rising sea levels. The quality and quantity of waters from the Susquehanna and its tributaries directly affect the Bay's health and productivity. Proponents for Bay preservation and restoration have worked tirelessly over the years to improve water conditions. The 1987 Chesapeake Bay Agreement established the Bay program’s goal to reduce the amount of nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus, that enters the Bay by 40 percent by the year 2000. To help meet this goal, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia developed tributary strategies for reducing nutrients and sediment that flow into the Chesapeake Bay.

In the 21st century, we have witnessed the extremes of droughts and the extremes of floods. Although these events are naturally occurring phenomena, they are greatly worsened by global warming and human alteration such as clear-cutting woods and increasing impervious cover, which causes an increase in stormwater run-off and a reduction of groundwater recharge.

Wetlands and undeveloped land areas in Hellam Township help to protect and improve water quality, provide fish and wildlife habitats, store flood waters, and maintain surface water flow during dry periods.

Watersheds

Watersheds are nature's boundaries. They are the areas that drain to surface water bodies. A watershed generally includes lakes, rivers, estuaries, wetlands, streams, and the surrounding landscape. Groundwater recharge areas are also considered.

Hellam Township lies within the Susquehanna River watershed. Because watersheds are defined by natural hydrology, they represent the most logical basis for managing water resources. The resource becomes the focal point, and managers are able to gain a more complete understanding of overall conditions in an area and the stressors which affect those conditions.

Traditionally, water quality improvements have focused on specific sources of pollution, such as sewage discharges, or specific water resources, such as a river segment or

13

wetland. While this approach may be successful in addressing specific problems, it often fails to address the more subtle and chronic problems that contribute to a watershed's decline. For example, pollution from a sewage treatment plant might be reduced significantly after a new technology is installed, and yet the local river may still suffer if other factors in the watershed, such as habitat destruction or polluted runoff, go unaddressed. Watershed management can offer a stronger foundation for uncovering the many stressors that affect a watershed. The results of watershed management helps environmental specialists determine what actions are needed to protect or restore the resource.

Waters & Wetlands

Waters of the Commonwealth

Numerous perennial (continual flow) and intermittent (discontinuous flow) waters of the Commonwealth and their tributaries are located within Hellam Township (see Appendices A and B).

Among the larger perennial systems in the Township are Codorus Creek, Trout Run, Dee Run, Wildcat Run, Dugan Run and Kreutz Creek. According to PA Code, Title 25, Environmental Protection, Chapter 93, Water Quality Standards, these major perennial systems, with the exception of Trout Run, are designated Warm Water Fishes (WWF) waters. The WWF designation is defined as ‘the maintenance and propagation of fish species and additional flora and fauna which are indigenous to a warm water habitat.’ Chapter 93 states that unnamed tributaries to the west bank of the Susquehanna River (all sections in PA, PA-MD State Border to Mouth), are assigned the WWF designation.

According to the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Trout Run was evaluated in 1995 for possible redesignation to Exceptional Value Waters (EV) in response to petitions received at the South Central Office. Through evaluation and technical data, Trout Run did not qualify for an EV designation. However, based on applicable regulatory criteria, the DEP recommended that a portion of the Trout Run basin’s designated use be changed from WWF to High Quality-Cold Water Fishes (HQ- CWF) and the remainder of the basin changed to Cold Water Fishes (CWF). The action to change the steam designation was completed on May 17, 2001.

In addition, the DEP has an ongoing program to assess the quality of waters in Pennsylvania and identify streams and other bodies of water that do not meet water quality standards as “impaired.” Water quality standards relate directly to the uses that waters can support and goals are established to protect those uses. Uses include, among other things, providing recreation, drinking water, and aquatic life. Goals are numerical or narrative, and water quality criteria that indicate in-stream levels of substances must be achieved to support the uses. Periodic reports on the quality of waters in the Commonwealth are required under section 305(b) of the federal Clean Water Act

14

(CWA). The table below lists primary waters located in Hellam Township, number of tributaries that hydrologically supply it, and the current quality designation of the water.

Water of the Number of Quality Designation of Primary Water Commonwealth Tributaries** Codorus Creek (08032)* 2 Urban runoff/storm sewers/unknown toxicity, aquatic life Trout Run (08035) None Listed Attaining***, aquatic life Wildcat Run (08025) None Listed Attaining***, aquatic life Dee Run (08040) 2 Attaining***, aquatic life Dugan Run (08024) None Listed Attaining***, aquatic life Kreutz Creek (07881) 22 Attaining***, aquatic life Susquehanna River 9 Attaining***, aquatic life

*State stream number designation **Unnamed perennial or intermittent systems *** All surface waters in Pennsylvania have multiple designated uses that include various water supply and recreational uses as well as a specific fish and aquatic life use. “Attaining” indicates that the water meets the goals for all designated uses.

Wetlands

Wetlands are the link between the land and the water - they are transition zones where the flow of water, the cycling of nutrients, and the energy of the sun meet to produce a unique ecosystem characterized by hydrology, soils, and vegetation – making these areas very important features of a watershed.

Wetlands are defined by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory, 1987) as “those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.”

Wetlands are considered valuable because they: Clean the water and recharge water supplies Reduce flood risks Provide fish and wildlife habitat Offer recreational opportunities Provide aesthetic benefits Supply diverse research and education habitat

Wetlands do more than provide habitat for plants and animals in the watershed. When water systems overflow, wetlands help to absorb and slow floodwaters. This ability to control floods can alleviate property damage and loss and can even save lives. Wetlands absorb excess nutrients, sediment, and other pollutants before they reach rivers, lakes and other water bodies.

15

In Hellam Township, the wetlands are classified primarily as palustrine systems. The palustrine system includes all nontidal wetlands dominated by trees, shrubs, persistent emergents, emergent mosses or lichens. The palustrine system was developed to group the vegetated wetlands traditionally called by such names as marsh, swamp, bog, fen and prairie, which are found throughout the United States. It also includes the small, shallow, permanent or intermittent water bodies often called ponds. Subclasses of the palustrine system include emergent, scrub/shrub, and forested wetlands.

Emergent wetlands are characterized by erect, rooted, herbaceous hydrophytes (plants that grow in wetlands). This vegetation is present for most of the growing season and includes plants such as rushes, sedges, and certain grasses, and wildflowers.

Scrub/shrub wetlands include areas dominated by woody vegetation less than 20 feet tall. The species include true shrubs, young trees, and trees or shrubs that are small or stunted because of environmental conditions. All water regimes except subtidal are included. Scrub/shrub wetlands may represent a successional stage leading to forested wetlands, or they may be relatively stable communities. Vegetation includes plants such as blueberry, bush-type dogwoods (for example, red osier), alders, buttonbush or spicebush.

Forested wetlands are typically flooded and seasonally flooded forests containing woody vegetation that is 20 feet tall or taller. They are called swamps, hammocks, heads, and bottoms, often prefaced by the dominant tree species in that area to create names such as cypress swamps, red maple and mixed swamps, bottomland hardwood forests, black spruce bogs, and western red cedar and red alder wetlands. This wetland type is most common in the eastern U.S. Vegetation includes certain oaks, red maple, willow, and sycamore.

The National Wetland Inventory (NWI) is a record of wetlands location and classification as defined by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The dataset is available in 7.5 minute by 7.5 minute blocks. The data collected meets the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service's mandate to map the wetland and deepwater habitats of the United States. While the NWI maps many wetlands, it does not show them all. Hydric soils, vegetation and the presence of hydrology (water) are prime indicators of wetlands. Therefore, when assessing whether a site is likely to have wetlands, both the NWI and the three wetland criteria should be evaluated. A listing of wetlands designated on the NWI in Hellam Township is available (see also Appendices A and B).

Wetlands are regulated by several agencies, principally the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Watersheds, Division of Waterways, Wetlands and Erosion Control. Disturbance of wetlands is regulated; where disturbance is deemed to be necessary (for example, to construct a road), a developer or public agency may be required to create, or mitigate, new wetlands elsewhere and normally within the same watershed.

16

Floodplains

A floodplain is any normally dry land area that is susceptible to being inundated by water from any natural source. This area is usually low land adjacent to a river, creek, or lake. The extent of floodplain inundation depends partly on the flood magnitude. Because they border water bodies, floodplains have been popular sites to establish settlements, which have led to an increase in flood-related disasters. Floodplains can support particularly rich ecosystems, both in quantity and diversity. These are termed ‘riparian zones’ or systems. Wetting of the floodplain soil releases an immediate surge of nutrients: those left over from the last flood, and those that result from the rapid decomposition of organic matter that has accumulated since then.

The management of water is becoming increasingly complex. Past and current practices have resulted in the disconnection of water bodies from floodplains – with a resultant loss in biodiversity and a necessity for complex, expensive and sometimes damaging flood defense schemes. Many of our current demands are incompatible with each other. For example, we strive for functioning floodplains for flood management and important biodiversity, but many want to live by waterways, thus requiring space to build houses to account for changing demographics. Prudent zoning reserves floodplains for recreation rather than development.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is responsible for responding to flood emergences. Once local communities have adopted minimal floodplain regulations, FEMA will subsidize flood insurance for private land owners. Hellam Township adopted a Floodplain Management Ordinance in August 2009. This regulates permitted activities within flood zones. Generally only low density uses that are not life threatening if flooded are permitted within floodplains. FEMA released new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) on September 22, 2009 for Hellam Township. The Susquehanna River, Codorus Creek and Kreutz Creek are the primary areas with designated floodplain zones (Appendix A). In addition, riparian buffer regulations adopted in the Zoning Ordinance in April 2010 prevent development in the floodplain area, and provide additional protections. Hellam Township has a Floodplain Management Ordinance which complies with federal and state floodplain management requirements.

Groundwater

Since most of Hellam Township relies on groundwater for its water supplies, it is extremely important to protect both water quality and water quantity of groundwater.

Underground aquifers are of particular concern in environmental planning because all life—human, animal and vegetative—is dependent on adequate supplies of clean water. Mapping underground aquifers is unfortunately much more difficult than mapping other

17

resources. Nevertheless, mapping aquifers with the assistance of a trained geologist can be important in a community. It might reveal lands that are especially susceptible to groundwater pollutants. Some communities then adopt wellhead protection zones, where certain activities, such as withdrawals, land uses that might introduce pollutants, etc., are restricted.

Hellam Township has dolomite geology, underlying the York-Wrightsville Valley, where sinkholes can be found and which are especially vulnerable to pollution. There are no defined aquifers in this hydrogeologic setting but rather one complex, nonhomogeneous water table aquifer highly influenced by fractured rock flow and therefore very complex, according to the York County Wellhead Protection Plan.

Groundwater volume becomes critical during droughts when we rely entirely on ground- water rather than stream flow for drinking water. Although droughts are naturally occurring phenomena, they are greatly worsened by clear-cutting forests, increasing the amount of impervious surfaces like parking lots, and withdrawing excessive amounts of groundwater. These changes lead to less water making its way into the underground reservoirs. Altering the land from a natural landscape, such as meadow or forest, to a more managed landscape such as farmland or lawn, decreases stability in the system, since less groundwater is recharged. Less stable systems experience more droughts and more floods.

Hellam Township’s Zoning Ordinance and SALDO require a report which consists of an aquifer test and a water quality test when wells are drilled for land development. The report is filed with the Township. The aquifer test should establish that the yield of the proposed well is sustainable on the property after development, during drought conditions and will not lower below safe levels the groundwater supply for adjacent properties. The water quality sample shall be drawn by a DEP-certified commercial laboratory and tested for nitrates, total coliform and fecal coliform. Water quality standards must meet the minimum public health drinking water standards as set forth by the EPA or be treatable to attain these standards.

If they are well maintained, septic tanks pose little or no threat to aquifers. Hellam Township has an On-Lot Disposal Systems Management Program, which requires regular pumping of septic tanks and inspection of on-lot septic systems. The Township’s Zoning Ordinance requires two disposal sites (initial and alternate) for all uses that rely upon on- lot sewage systems. Both sites must be approved by a Sewage Enforcement Officer. Minimum lot size may be increased to ensure an acceptable level of nitrate-nitrogen in the adjoining groundwater.

Impacts to groundwater resources are regulated by a variety of agencies at the national, state and county level, with fragmentation the result. Pollution and volume are generally regulated differently. Although groundwater and surface waters are an integrated system, they are regulated as multiple, separate components, including surface water, groundwater, sedimentation, and wetlands, to name several. Regulatory agencies include the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, an intrastate agency, the State’s Department

18

of Environmental Protection, and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the County Department of Health and others. Thus one important role for the EAC is to stay informed about these agencies and how their decisions might impact local resources.

A Pennsylvania municipality has the authority to adopt zoning and other ordinances to protect ground water recharge areas and areas around well heads. Wellhead Protection Areas (WHPA) can be determined based on well pumping rates, time of travel of ground water flowing to the well, the aquifer boundary and the degree of confinement. Other site characteristics will determine the extent of the WHPA boundary. The EAC can use the ERI to demonstrate where these areas are located and how they are defined and could recommend adoption of wellhead protection regulations. The EAC can also suggest measures for the maximum protection of identified groundwater recharge areas.

Stormwater Management

In this part of Pennsylvania, approximately 43 to 45 inches of rain fall per year. When rain falls, a portion drains down slope immediately (runoff), a portion is quickly absorbed and used by vegetation, and the remainder filters down through the soils to recharge underground aquifers.

This ability of land to absorb rainfall is altered by human activities. Thick mature woods absorb more rainfall than farm fields. Lawn is only moderately good at retaining rainwater long enough for the rainfall to be absorbed; pasture and meadow are better. Parking lots and buildings do not absorb any rainwater.3 In general, the more intensively a site is altered, the less the rainfall will be retained and absorbed. Runoff increases.

Thus, stormwater management affects both water quality and water quantity.

Impacts of Stormwater Management On Water Quality

Runoff from agriculture contains pesticides, animal wastes, bacteria and soil sediment. Runoff from residential uses contains oils, pollutants and other chemicals. Storm water runoff is a major contributor to water quality problems in streams. Runoff is called ‘non- point source pollution’ because it cannot be identified as coming from a single source, like a sewage system outfall.

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) is operated by the Environmental Protection Agency, with substantial implementation delegated to the state. Under NPDES, a variety of land activities are regulated, including concentrated feed lot operations (for livestock runoff), nutrient runoff, industrial runoff, runoff from mining and several other activities.

3 One exception is pervious parking area, where the parking material contains pores that permit absorption. Pervious pavement receives less attention than it should, possibly due to a perception that it is difficult to maintain. Pervious pavement does not seem to be getting the attention it undoubtedly warrants.

19

Hellam Township has a general NPDES permit that allows water from Township infrastructure to discharge into waters of the Commonwealth. This permit is renewed yearly as part of the Federal Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) requirements. This is a program established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to improve the quality of our Nation’s waters. A leading source of pollution is from runoff. The EPA established a Phase I and Phase II program to improve runoff. Hellam Township falls under the Stormwater Phase II Final Rule. Participation in this program is mandatory for the Township to maintain their National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The Township is required to develop, implement and enforce a stormwater management program designed to reduce the discharge of pollutants from their MS4 to the “maximum extent practicable,” to improve and protect water quality.

The Township is responsible for six different minimal control measures of the MS4. These include:

1. Public Education and Outreach

2. Public Involvement and Participation

3. Illicit Discharge Protection and Elimination

4. Construction Site Runoff Control

5. Post-Construction Runoff Control

6. Pollution Prevent/Good Housekeeping

In addition, the Township must also identify its selection of Best Management Practices (BMPs) and measurable goals for each minimum measure in the permit application. Every year, the Township must complete a MS4 Report to the Department of Environment Protection (DEP) as to how the Township has met the six different minimal control measures, identifying the BMPs and measureable goals.

One severe consequence of development is degradation of water quality. As more and more impervious surface is created, less water can infiltrate causing excess runoff, greater erosion and a decrease in groundwater supply and quality. Water picks up pollutants and delivers them directing to streams and waterways. In March 2011, York County Planning Commission adopted an Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP) that was approved by DEP to protect water quality and quantity, and meets the State’s Act 167 requirements. Hellam Township adopted a Stormwater Management Ordinance in 1996. This was updated in April 2012 to meet new Federal (MS4), State (Act 167) and County (IWRP) requirements. This ordinance requires all development to have erosion and soil controls in place for land disturbance, requirements management of water quantity (volume and rate), water quantity, and regulates illicit discharge into the storm sewer system.

20

Impacts of Stormwater Management On Groundwater Recharge

Stormwater management also affects groundwater recharge, and so ultimately water quantity. When runoff increases, groundwater recharge decreases. Over the long run this leads to two related problems. First, flooding is worsened, since runoff is increased and made especially intense in the 24-48 hours after a storm. Second, droughts are worsened, since the groundwater supplies are not being recharged over the entire system. When rainfall and snow melt is below normal for the year, and underground reservoirs are low, droughts are much more worrying. A relatively stable system is replaced by one that is more characterized by flooding and droughts than before.

Biotic Resources

Hellam Township’s natural areas represent a significant biotic resource—important well beyond its own confines (see Appendix B).

Forests provide substantial cleansing functions for air quality. They are very good at trapping rainwater and slowing it down so that groundwater supplies are recharged. They also produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, a principal contributor to global climate change. At the local level, however, it is the forest’s roles in protecting streams and water recharge that is so critical.

The Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program maintains a listing of natural communities and species of special concern. Most of the areas mapped in the Natural Areas Inventory have unique plants and animals that are adapted to specific habitats. In turn these habitats depend on specific water, soils and geology regimes. If large-scale habitat change occurs, animal and plant diversity will decrease or shift to favor certain species over others.

The significant natural areas identified within Hellam Township and included in the GIS database are the Forest Canopy area, including the Wildcat Falls, Dugan Run, and Trout Run Watersheds, and Rocky Ridge County Park. Hellam Township has plant and animal species listed in the Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Index (PNDI). Most sites listed are located along the Susquehanna River.

All of these natural areas fill critical roles in providing wildlife habitat. They also add to the sense of open space enjoyed by residents and visitors, through the scenic pleasure of simply driving by, or by actual use of the land for hikes, recreation and the study of nature. The diverse and unique open spaces of Hellam Township are of immeasurable importance to wildlife. Encouraging natural landscapes and native vegetation is a role the EAC should promote.

21

Forests and Woodlands in Hellam Township

Hellam Township’s woodlands currently occupy 35% or 6000 acres of the township’s total area (see Appendices A and B). These woodlands are a mix of predominately (90%) hardwood species (oaks, maples, tulip poplar, etc.) and 10% evergreens (pines and spruce).

The majority of the woodlands are in the northern third of the township (5000 acres) in the Hellam Hills section. A smaller section of 900 acres is located in the southern third of the township in the South Hills section. The 600 acres section between Hillview Road and Strickler School Road should also be considered an important native plant and animal species protection area because of its size and relative lack of fragmentation.

Rural forest lands, native forest communities, plantations, trees within developed areas such as those along streets, trees managed for timber, tree farms, orchards and riparian buffers all contribute to Hellam Township’s woodland inventory.

Most of these woodlands are privately owned. Only a relatively small amount is publicly owned. This 300 acre parcel is found in Rocky Ridge County park located at the western boundary of the township north of Route 30. At present, about 550 acres in the Hellam Hills are owned by the Marietta Gravity Water Company.

The Township’s forests and woodlands are important for several reasons.

Importance of woodlands and forests to stream health. The forests and woodlands of Hellam Township are not only large in acreage, they are also well located for stream health. A healthy riparian buffer is necessary to protect stream quality. An area that is thickly wooded or dense with shrubs just adjacent to the streams is good. Generally a distance of 50-200 feet is considered a good riparian buffer. Trees and shrubs have a much denser root system than a row crop or lawn. Wooded buffers support the stream bank so that over time the creek does not wash away. The trees and shrubs shade the stream, helping the stream maintain a cooler temperature. Wooded buffers are very effective at trapping sediments and pollutants prior to entering the streams. And finally, wooded buffers are part of a particular type of habitat, one on which many animal species depend.

Wooded buffers have almost immeasurable positive impacts to a stream’s health. The dense root layer ensures that the stream banks do not wash away over time. The forested canopy helps the stream maintain a healthy temperature suitable for the benthic (stream- bottom) and fish populations.

Woodlands should not be removed near streams. Livestock should not be permitted unlimited access to the stream bank, as this spreads damage to the entire stream rather than limiting it to a single or several points of access for drinking. The EAC helped to initiate an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance that provides for a 100 foot buffer area

22

immediately adjacent to stream banks or outer edges of all watercourses, including springs and seeps and limits potentially damaging activities within that area. The EAC should be actively involved with implementation of the York County Integrated Watershed Resource Plan’s (Act 167) regulations to protect Township stream corridors.

Importance of woodlands and forests to wildlife habitat. Each animal species has very specific habitat requirements. Food, nesting sites, protection from predators, breeding areas, etc. are all provided by woodlands and/or forests. Woodlands at the margins of rivers, streams and ponds provide unique habitat for a large variety of wildlife. Fragmentation or elimination of our forests (particularly continuous canopy) and woodlands will diminish or remove this habitat and with it the species that require this ecosystem for survival. This will lead to a further decline in the number and types of birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals fish, insects and crustaceans which can exist in our township.

Like animals, a large number of plants depend on woodlands and forests. Wildflowers, ferns, mushrooms, aquatic plants, etc. have small tolerances for existence outside a specific regime of temperature, humidity, soil conditions, shade and moisture. The forests and woodlands not only supply these requirements, but also the partners (insects, certain other plant species, fungi, etc.) for the symbiotic relationships important or necessary for survival of these plant species. Stands of woodlands, particularly large continuous stands, can afford protections from invasive exotic species. Examples are numerous where fragmentation of forests has created an opportunity for exotic species to compete and eventually eliminate a native species. There are a number of existing, unique plant communities in the Township which are fragile and would not survive a loss of habitat or a battle with non-native species.

Importance of woodlands and forests to groundwater quality and quantity. Woodlands also protect private and public water supplies. The thick (up to six inches) bed of fallen leaves, conifer duff and rotting plant material provide protection in several ways: 1. Filtration – particulates and pollutants are retained and neutralized in this matted structure on the forest floor. 2. Buffer capacity – this thick mat of organic material resists acidification and chemical deterioration of the soil, maintaining and improving its ability to clean the water chemically prior to entering the aquifer. 3. Retention – by retaining and absorbing rainfall and other precipitation, trees, shrubs and leaf litter prevent water from becoming runoff. The soil stays in place and the quality and quantity of water available to recharge the aquifer is greatly enhanced.

Importance of woodlands and forests to Soils. Trees protect soils from being washed away as sediment to rivers, streams and ponds. This is of particular importance on steep slopes. Exhibit E shows the great extent to which steep slopes exist in Hellam Township and their proximity to rivers and streams. The buffer capacity provided by the woodlands maintains the soil integrity by minimizing chemical contamination, while the forest floor contributes valuable nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.

23

Importance of woodlands and forests to air quality. Trees are an efficient air cleaning machine. They sequester many pollutants from our atmosphere. Dust, ash, pollen and smoke of ten microns or less (the size of particles which could find their way into the recesses of our lungs) are filtered by trees. Gaseous pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3) and carbon monoxide (CO) are absorbed through pores in the leaf’s surface. Trees absorb enough CO2 on each acre over a year’s time to equal the amount produced driving a car 26,000 miles. GIS software exists which can calculate the cost savings in dollars, based on the amount and type of woodlands in a particular area.

Importance of protecting existing woodlands and forests. All of the various types of woodlands in our Township contribute to our health and well-being. However, of particular value and importance (and concern) is our continuous canopy of woodland. This resource offers the opportunity for meaningful, large-scale maintenance of our air and water quality, species diversity and soil conservation. Studies show that in order to perform these functions effectively, woodlands must be of considerable size and be connected via corridors where possible to other forest areas. The greater the total area, depth and connectedness of woodland ecosystems, the greater their ability to provide the above-mentioned advantages. The EAC should help to see that the regulations in the Zoning Ordinance to protect the woodland canopy are followed.

Since most of the woodlands in Hellam Township are privately owned and only minimally protected by current zoning regulations from future development, they are highly vulnerable to further reduction and fragmentation. If we are to fulfill our legal mandate as stewards of the land and continue to derive the cost-free benefits of the Township’s woodlands, we continue to implement the latest conservation and protective zoning techniques. This will require the creation of a spirit and mechanism for cooperation among government officials, citizens, developers and planners.

Our choices are clear. We can preserve large, contiguous tracts of forest or incur the costs that will accrue to taxpayers for engineered solutions to replace the functioning ecosystem and suffer the loss of biodiversity. Trees are a renewable resource, but once lost will not renew for several generations of taxpayers. The biological diversity, once lost, will likely never be experienced by any generation.

Ways To Protect Environmental Resources

Review Existing Ordinances; Enhance if Necessary

Hellam Township already has in place in its Zoning Ordinance protective regulations for steep slopes, wetlands, woodlands, floodplains, riparian buffers, streams and unique geologic features, all as part of the Restricted Development Overlay District. The Zoning Ordinance’s TDR provisions are designed to protect prime agricultural soils. The Zoning Ordinance also

24

has recommendations for protection of historic and archaeological resources as part of the Historic District Overlay. The Township has a Floodplain Ordinance and is drafting a Well Protection Ordinance. Storm water management is regulated by the Township’s Storm Water Management Ordinance (revised 2012). The Township’s SALDO also has regulations governing storm water management and sedimentation controls. The EAC should continue to provide input for revision of the Zoning Ordinance and SALDO with regard to ways to better manage stormwater run-off.

The EAC should periodically review these ordinances and recommend revisions or additions necessary to enhance protection of natural and historic resources. The information in this ERI will help Hellam Township to legitimize any proposed changes to its ordinances. In protecting local natural resources, it is important to allow for innovative design ideas by modifying the comprehensive plan, the zoning ordinance and the subdivision/land development ordinance. The EAC should work cooperatively with the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors in this effort.

Ensure EAC is part of the Subdivision/Land Development site plan review process.

Using the comprehensive plan and ordinances in place, the Township Zoning Officer has a checklist for the site review process that references municipal ordinances and then verifies that new plans are consistent with these. This checklist can streamline the application process and make it clear when a proposal violates the regulations. The GIS data layers available in the Township are can be used for this purpose. By layering the proposed development over the natural resource layers, it becomes easy to see where overlap can be detrimental.

The EAC should continue to serve as a partner in this review process, using its own constantly updated site review process checklist, assisting Township staff with use and interpretation of the GIS data layer overlays and other data in the ERI and working with the developer to provide a reasonable expectation of what to find in an area.

Adopt New Protective Ordinances

The EAC can recommend adoption of new stand-alone ordinances that might be valuable for additional resource protection. An example might be an ordinance that would more specifically protect the continuous woodland canopy corridor along the Susquehanna River. The EAC should work cooperatively with the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors to help develop any new ordinances.

25

Transfer of Development Rights

Hellam Township has instituted a Transfer of Development Rights program which is defined and regulated in its current Zoning Ordinance. Under this program, development is permitted in specific, limited areas of a community while larger land tracts are preserved through permanent restrictions. The increased development that can occur on some tracts is permitted only in exchange for the purchase or acquisition of development rights on preserved tracts. This ensures some financial gain for those residents who preserve their lands.

Hellam Township’s TDR program allows landowners in the Sending Overlay District to sell their development rights to entities wishing to develop in other locations already identified by the municipality as a growth area (the Receiving Area). The sale of development rights leaves the rural landowner in possession of title to the land and the right to use the property as farmland, open space or for a related purpose. However, it removes the owner's right to develop the property for other purposes. The purchaser of development rights may then develop another parcel within the growth area more intensely than would otherwise be allowed, based upon the number of “rights” purchased.

The TDR program is under review by the Township staff and the EAC for ways to refine and streamline it, so that it will become productive and successful. They are working more closely with the Farm and Natural Lands Trust and the County Ag Preserve Board and considering ideas such as the banking of development rights by the Township for transfer to future developers and adjustment of the density ratio, as well as suggestions from other townships, such as Warwick Township and Mt. Joy Township in Lancaster County, which have successful TDR programs.

In addition to assisting with review and recommendations for improvement of the TDR program, the EAC can play a major role in education of the public about the rationale and value of this program for our township.

Update and Monitor Accuracy of ERI GIS Data Layers

The EAC should update and monitor accuracy of the GIS data layers that are a part of the ERI on a regular basis and make revisions as feasible. It may also wish to create new layers as the need arises. For example, the EAC may wish to create and update regularly a wetlands layer. As a start, the layer would include both wetlands mapped by NWI and those areas where the soils are indicated as hydric. As wetlands delineations are performed in Hellam Township during the SALDO process, the EAC should ensure that the Township’s wetlands layer is updated to reflect the new information.

26

Consider Initiatives for Funding Open Space Protection

Many local governments are discovering that permanently protecting open space actually can save taxpayers money. This is so because development generally increases municipal expenses (school district taxes, fire and emergency services, trash collection) more than it increases revenues to support the increases in services. The largest impact is from school district increases. Therefore, although land is expensive to acquire, the long term savings make it worthwhile.

Bonds (electoral or non-electoral) could be used to purchase lands outright, and/or preserve them through conservation easements and agricultural easements and may also be utilized for park development. Such an effort could be undertaken in partnership with neighboring municipalities and with the County and private land conservation organiza- tions.

A municipality may also choose to increase its current Earned Income Tax (EIT) and utilize the funds for land acquisitions and easements. Another option is annual appropriations. A municipality commits to setting aside a fixed amount in the annual budget to be utilized for acquisition, easements and park development.

A municipality may choose to lease open space on a 99 year renewable contract rather than purchase. The lease rate is tied to a consumer price index or some other graduated system. This system is beneficial to both the landowner and municipality because it does not require a large outlay of money by the municipality and preserves open space.

The Hellam Township EAC can play a role in open space funding initiative by working closely with the Recreation and Open Space Committee to support the development of the proposed Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks and Open Space Plan. Based on the findings in the plan, the EAC can encourage elected leaders to examine and propose funding initiatives, help raise awareness of the importance of preservation of open space and local resources, and by helping campaign for adoption of funding initiatives.

If funding initiatives are passed, the EAC will have a very important role in helping prioritize parcels for protection. The GIS will be an ideal analytic tool.

Updating the Official Map

Local municipalities in Pennsylvania are permitted to adopt an Official Map, and Hellam Township adopted an Official Map in October 2003. The authority and procedure for adopting an official map is outlined in Article V of the Municipalities Planning Code.

With an Official Map in place, the municipality can map those lands that it intends or hopes to acquire in the future. An Official Map can be an ideal tool for ensuring that the best open space and trail locations in a community are preserved. Parcels of land that are

27

especially significant to the natural ecology can be designated. A Continuous Canopy Woodland Corridor Reservation is designated on Hellam Township’s Official Map, along the northern boundary of the Township. Trails will be designated on the Official Map update (2012).

Once a parcel has been designated on an official map, if the existing owner intends to develop his land, he or she must notify the municipality and the municipality then has one year in which to purchase the land. If the municipality decides to purchase the land, it may do so by compensating the owner at that time. The municipality is not, however, required to acquire the land; it merely has the option to do so.

If development is proposed then the municipality can begin the purchase process. Aside from having the option to purchase outright lands, the Official Map can also be used to guide development as it occurs. A trail network can be designed to function as a whole and complete system well before development comes, but actually created over time as developments are proposed. The proposed Comprehensive and Open Space Plan for the Township will include trails to be designated on the Official Map.

The EAC should continually monitor what lands and specific natural and cultural resources might be appropriate for designation on the Official Map and make recommendations to the Township for updating the Map.

Review and, if Necessary, Revise the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance

The EAC should encourage the adoption of subdivision/land development codes that require diverse landscapes. The EAC could increase awareness of the values of meadows and woodlands as an alternative to lawn among residents. The EAC could even undertake riparian restoration projects with willing property owners. The EAC should continue to review its regulatory codes to evaluate whether woodlands are adequately protected. Again, because much of woodland removal occurs outside the development process, the Township should consider a stand-alone natural features protection ordinance.

Adopt a Natural Features Protection Ordinance

Hellam Township can regulate disturbance to specific resources through a natural features conservation ordinance (NFCO). This is a stand-alone ordinance. That is, it is not part of zoning or the subdivision/land development ordinance. Thus it affects all residents all the time, whether or not lands are undergoing development. Natural features conservation ordinances are written specifically for a resource of concern and so vary quite a bit from community to community. They can be written to protect riparian buffers, seeps, woodlands, hydric soils, specimen trees, hedgerows, or other resources. The EAC should help draft this ordinance, if one is created.

28

Educate Citizens About Native Landscaping and the Resource Value of their Lands

Hellam Township should continue to educate local residents about the value of these resources. Property owners play a large role in protecting resources. Many are willing to leave critical areas undisturbed. Helping educate all residents about Hellam Township’s resources is a continuing role for the EAC. The EAC could begin a program to increase awareness of the value of natural landscapes, of preserving riparian buffers and using native species in landscaping and gardening, for example. The Hellam Township EAC could “champion” any or all of these efforts.

The EAC has created a native vegetation list as a landscaping guideline and requirement for developers and should continue to monitor that it is being used.

Encourage Citizens to Participate/Enroll in Conservation Programs

There are many conservation programs available to the public which benefit both the environment and the homeowner. For example the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) restores streams to create wildlife habitat, and improve water quality. Residents with streams, ponds, creeks, and seasonal streams may participate. When a home owner enrolls in this program trees are planted along the waterway. The homeowner is reimbursed for the installation cost of the trees and paid a yearly rent based on a contract agreement for lease of land. The EAC should continue to partner with the York County Conservation District in raising awareness of the many conservation programs and initiatives available for residents. Additionally, the EAC should recommend linking initiatives with existing Township programs such as the TDR program and the mandatory dedication ordinance.

Encourage Creation of Additional Agricultural Securities Area

In 1987 Hellam Township landowners created the first Agricultural Securities Area (ASA) in York County, and since then the acreage in ASA in the Township has grown to over 5800 acres as of 2012.

Through the Agricultural Securities Act (Act 43), Pennsylvania has provided a means whereby farms gain some protection from nuisance suits and from the threat of eminent domain by local municipalities and school districts. Farmers are free to conduct normal farming activities such as plowing and applying fertilizer without fear of lawsuit by neighbors. Hazardous waste and low-level radioactive waste disposal areas cannot be sited on ASA lands.

29

A landowner can petition the Township to enroll in the ASA. Each parcel must be at least 10 acres in size. Participation in an agricultural security area is required if a property owner wishes to sell his/her development rights to the State. Establishment of an ASA does not preclude farm owners from developing land.

The EAC should encourage eligible landowners to participate in the ASA.

Promote Agricultural Conservation Easements

The Pennsylvania Agricultural Conservation Easement (PACE) program permits owners of farmland to sell easements to the Commonwealth that prevent development or improvement of the land except for agricultural production. Farmers are paid the differ- ence between what the land would bring on the market for any uses currently allowed less its value as restricted by the easement. The York County Agriculture Preserve Board administers this program in York County.

Under an easement, the owner retains all rights of ownership such as the right to sell, lease, or mortgage the land, the right to fence and keep others off of it and the right to bequeath it to heirs. Agricultural easements can also be granted to private land trusts, such as the Farm & Natural Lands Trust of York County. Creation of an easement also benefits the land owner with significant tax savings.

Data from the ERI provides information on parcels and their ownership and can help with creation of baseline documentation. The EAC can play a valuable role in educating landowners of their land preservation options and should continue to contact and encourage landowners to donate conservation easements to conservancies or governmental units.

Strengthen the Agriculture Industry

To support farmers and to increase resident participation in agriculture, EACs can work with farmers to promote interest in locally-grown produce and to encourage the establishment of community-supported agriculture. This is a system where customers sign up and pay in advance for a share of what the farm produces. This guarantees the farmers a fair price for their produce and provides consumers with fresh locally grown food. Pick-your-own farm operations are also a popular way to generate business and reduce costs for farmers. The municipality can also encourage farmers markets in central commercial areas of the Township

There is a growing interest in locally-grown produce. The EAC could encourage this interest as a means to support local farming. “Growers Markets,” which permit only vendors who have actually produced their wares, can be a good way to help local farmers. Some school districts are working to ensure that local produce is available in schools, both to keep kids healthy and support local farming.

30

The Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education (HFCAE) is located on County-owned land in Hellam Township. Its mission is to showcase and interpret multiple aspects of local agriculture and its heritage, and through experiential learning programs promote the fundamental importance of sustainable local agriculture. Its Incubator Farms Project provides opportunity for aspiring farmers to get a start in farming by leasing land at the HFCAE at low cost. With the help of the Center’s infrastructure they get the farming and business experience which will enable them to move on to other farmland after 3-5 years, making way for more Incubator Farmers at the Center. The Center also has an active Community Gardens program for families to grow their own fresh produce. The EAC should partner wherever possible with the Center to help promote the opportunities for Township residents to get involved with the Center’s projects and activities.

Adopt Innovative Land Development Ordinances for Farmland and Woodlands Undergoing Development

The removal of native vegetation 300 years ago by European settlers was necessary to permit farming. As woodland and meadow were converted to agriculture, massive changes in wildlife and vegetation species occurred, probably with a decline in species diversity. Some aspects of farming, such as the creation of hedgerows, partially offset this decline, rewarding species that prefer ‘edge’ habitats. But in general, the widespread clearing came at the cost to species diversity.

Where Hellam Township’s farmland is converted to another use—most likely to low- density residential uses—we should ask ourselves whether extensive lawn areas dotted with specimen trees are the best choice. One opportunity this ‘redevelopment’ offers is to actually increase species diversity even as we alter the land again to fit new values.

Too often developers install lawns dotted with specimen trees because that landscape is easy and widely perceived as good. Once the lawn is established, property owners tend to simply maintain the pattern established by the developers, particularly if their neighbors are doing the same. Any native seedling trees are whisked away by lawn mowers. Any wildflowers or native shrubs are pulled out as ‘weeds.’ But with good initial design, woodland and meadow landscapes can be compatible with—even a selling point—point for residential development. If developers can be encouraged to protect any existing naturalized areas on tracts undergoing development, and create new ones during the development process, these landscapes will ‘seem to belong.’ New residents will likely preserve them.

Wherever farming in Hellam Township gives way to residential uses, an opportunity exists to actually increase natural diversity. Restoring woodlands and meadows rather than establishing lawns would increase wildlife habitat, decrease use of pesticides and fertilizer, and help maintain stream health. The EAC has initiated regulations in the Zoning Ordinance and SALDO to protect hedgerows and woodland in development areas

31

and should continue to consider protective and restorative measures that enhance natural resource diversity on farmland undergoing development.

Work with Others to Protect Environmental Resources

The York County Planning Commission is an important partner in municipal efforts to protect the environmental resources discussed in this inventory. The County has only limited power to affect land use. The County may review certain subdivisions and land developments but has advisory powers only. It cannot create zoning districts. This authority is retained by the local government in Pennsylvania, in this case Hellam Township.

The County Health Department oversees municipal Act 537 Plans, the Sewage Facilities Plans, that each municipality must adopt stating how it will plan for safe treatment of sewage. The County Conservation District regulates any sedimentation permitting, and wetlands permitting. The EAC should foster a good relationship with these County offices to stay in touch with trends and concerns.

The County can be an important partner through funding projects, in helping muni- cipalities stay current on land use issues and as a principal source for GIS data.

The York Region Metropolitan Planning Organization can be a valuable partner in planning the location of trails and bike routes throughout the Township.

In addition, the EAC should work with the Farm & Natural Lands Trust of York County, the County Agricultural Preserve Board and the Lancaster Conservancy. All of these organizations offer guidance to landowners wishing to permanently preserve their land, as well as opportunities to work actively with the Township in acquiring and holding conservation easements on land.

The EAC should work with public and home schools, Scout and other youth organizations to mentor and educate them about environmental protection.

The EAC should also maintain close ties with the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, which is concerned with environmental restoration and enhanced recreation and education in the Susquehanna River corridor. Hellam Township has over eight miles bordering the River along its northern and eastern boundaries. The Susquehanna Gateway Heritage Area (SGHA) oversees the Lower Susquehanna Regional Committee of this Partnership. Since environmental and culture history related projects of the SGHA can affect and benefit Hellam Township, the EAC should work closely with this organization, as well. The EAC should also work with the Susquehanna Riverkeeper and the Mason-Dixon Trail System, as well as with regional representatives of the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

32

Cultural & Historic Resources - 3

Archaeological Resources

Valuable information about an area’s history and prehistory can be present in archaeological sites. These sites contain artifacts, structural remains and features which can assist in identifying, dating and understanding both historic and prehistoric cultures. Identification of significant archaeological resources is important because once these resources are destroyed, the useful information they contain is lost forever.

Hellam Township has not been systematically surveyed to determine the locations of prehistoric sites, although 4 such sites are recorded for the Township in the Pennsylvania Archeological Site Survey (P.A.S.S.) files at the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC). PHMC has developed maps and models, based on extensive research, which indicate where prehistoric sites are most likely to occur in an area.

The four prehistoric sites recorded in the P.A.S.S. files for Hellam Township are 36YO19, a rockshelter designated prehistoric, with a hearth feature and no diagnostic points or pottery; 36YO112, a Late Archaic/Transitional/late Woodland site, with quartzite and chalcedony materials and a diagnostic point of the Piedmont tradition; 36YO248, a prehistoric site with quartzite and rhyolite materials, features and no diagnostics; and 36YO254, a floodplain site along the Codorus Creek designated Middle Archaic period, containing quartzite materials, ceramics, tools, bannerstones and a diagnostic bifurcate point.

Historic archaeological sites are represented by ruins or below-ground remains of early historic structures, such as domestic dwellings and outbuildings, mills, furnaces, etc. No systematic survey of historic archaeological sites has been carried out in Hellam Township, but the potential for the presence of such sites in the Township is great, given its long and rich cultural history. There are to date four historic archaeological sites recorded in the P.A.S.S. files for Hellam Township. Two, 36YO332 and 36YO333, are domestic sites; 36 YO353 is a farmstead; and 36 YO350 is an industrial site.

Historic Preservation

Hellam Township is rich in historic buildings and landscapes. Particularly significant are sites dating to the early 18th century when the Hellam Township area was the “western frontier” for the settlers moving west across the river, and sites with remains of early industries, such as iron-making and milling.

The location and significance of the historic and architectural resources within Hellam Township were identified by the Kreutz Creek Valley Preservation Society (KCVPS) in 1990. The society generated a comprehensive survey of over 400 separate buildings and

33

structures with historic significance, including 20 buildings from the 1700s. Most historic buildings located within the township consist of farmhouses and barns. There are also several churches, cemeteries, schools, bridges, mills, taverns, and inns listed.

The Borough of Hallam, surrounded by Hellam Township, was incorporated as a separate municipality in 1908. Prior to that time it was part of Hellam Township. Near the center of the Township, it is situated in the heart of Kreutz Creek Valley. In 1739, Samuel Blunston, a Quaker, became an agent for the Penn family and granted permits for land to settlers who located west of the Susquehanna River. Mr. Blunston was born in the township of Upper Hallam, in the County of York, England, after which Hallam was named.

One of the factors leading to the concentrated settlement of Hallam Borough was water from the north branch of Kreutz Creek. Two of the earliest rural German structures in York County, the Dietz and Schultz houses, erected in the 1730s, are located in the Borough. About 1855, tobacco growing became a profitable business for the Hallam farmers. As a result of the success of cultivating leaf tobacco, the cigar manufacturing industry began in Hallam about the same time. The Pennsylvania Railway Station and a mill were also located within today’s Borough limits. A tannery, store, hotel, post office, tobacco factory, doctor’s office and church were erected near the railroad station. Gradually the Borough became a nucleus of the southwest sector of the Township, the area in which most farmers, mills, stores and ore pits were located. By 1880, there were about 20 structures in the Borough, generally located along Market Street.

One of the earliest industries in Hellam Township was the Codorus Furnace located on the south side of the Codorus Creek on Furnace Road. The forge and furnace was opened in 1765 and operated until 1850. The woodlands of the Hellam Hills furnished charcoal for the forge, which produced cannonballs and other iron products for the Revolutionary War. The Codorus Furnace is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Along the Susquehanna River, the Accomac Inn was constructed in 1775 at the site of Anderson’s Ferry, chartered in 1742. The ferry was the primary crossing site of the Susquehanna River in colonial times.

The site of the “Shoe House”, located south of U.S. Route 30 on the west side of Shoe House Road, has been considered for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. While this building was only built in 1948, its extremely unique architecture has warranted this consideration.

Wrightsville, surrounded by Hellam Township, was once a center of transport and industry, functioning as a canal hub, an operating foundry, tannery, gristmill, hotel, iron furnace, gun factory, and a sawmill powered by the Susquehanna River. The first national road, the Lincoln Highway, now Route 462, passed through the township. US Route 30 now parallels this route.

34

Parks and Recreation

Planning for recreation and open space preservation are naturally intertwined. Ideally planning will be in place before development arrives. The text above discusses many options for preserving open space. Turning now to a more active type of recreation, we discuss recreational opportunities. Recreational programs are administered by the Hellam Recreation Commission. This non-profit organization utilizes some of the park facilities listed below to offer soccer, baseball, softball, t-ball, horseshoes, and tennis.

Regional Parks

Regional Parks are generally 100 or more acres in size and are meant to serve a regional market, such as a county. As such, they are generally provided by “regional” agencies larger than the Township. Hellam Township residents have ready access to two major regional parks, Samuel Lewis S. State Park and the Rocky Ridge County Park. The Samuel S. Lewis State Park is situated along the Township’s southern boundary with Lower Windsor Township and contains 71 acres of parkland which provides a spectacular view of the Susquehanna River. Rocky Ridge County Park contains 750 acres of land within Hellam and Springettsbury Townships and was the first park in the York County system. Both of these parks offer residents of Hellam Township a wide variety of nature-based and other recreation activities.

Community Parks

Community parks usually are 30-50 acres in size. Presently, there are no developed public community parks located within Hellam Township. However, a Regional Master Park Plan has been approved by Hellam Township and Hallam Borough. This site development plan, specific to the Barshinger Fields facility, was approved in 2005. Actual development of the park has not begun.

The future Hellam Township/Hallam Borough Regional park would be located within Hellam Township between the northern boundary of the Borough and the southern edge of Route 30 east bound right-of-way.

The Regional Park is planned to be 37.1 acres in size and would be divided into five parcels.

During Phase 1 of the Park the existing Barshinger Athletic Fields would be expanded to accommodate soccer, baseball and softball. Plans for the new Regional Park could include a YMCA Family Center, community lawn/training area, fitness station, meadows, playgrounds, pavilions, restrooms, concession stands, fitness trails and trails connecting the individual tracts.

35

Neighborhood Parks

The Kreutz Creek Elementary School is located within the Township, just north of Hallam Borough. The Barshinger Athletic Fields are situated on the north side of Lincoln Highway. The location of these sites limits their practical service to many Township residents. Other neighborhood parks (Emig Park, Hallam Ball Fields, Memorial Field/Wrightsville Elementary School, Safe Harbor Ball Field, and Walnut Street Passive Park, Liberty Park) exist within Hallam and Wrightsville Boroughs and offer limited neighborhood park service.

Trails and Bikeways

The scenic Mason Dixon Trail connects the Appalachian Trail with the Brandywine Trail. This 193 mile long trail starts at Whiskey Springs on the Appalachian Trail, in Cumberland County, PA and heads east towards the Susquehanna River, passing through Pinchot State Park, York County, PA en route. The trail then follows the west bank of the Susquehanna south through the woodlands of Hellam township along the river hills to Havre de Grace, Maryland.

The Lower Susquehanna River Water Trail skirts the banks of Hellam Township. However, there are currently no access points to the river in the Township. The Lower Susquehanna River trail is a 53-mile-long paddler’s adventure that begins at the New Market Boat Access near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and ends a few miles south of the Mason-Dixon Line at the Broad Creek Access in Maryland, offering a tremendous diversity of natural and built environments.

The popular PA Bicycle Route S is located on the shoulder of Route 462 which bisects the Township. This scenic S route begins in western PA, Washington County, and passes through the southern counties of PA and ends in Bucks County, PA.

Plan for Recreation and Trails

If development comes, residents will need access to open space and recreation opportunities. These are much easier to provide if they are planned to coincide with development, rather than after Hellam Township is developed. A township plan for open space, parks and recreation, including a trail network is being developed. In 2010 the Township and Hallam Borough partnered to apply for a DCNR Planning Grant. The grant has been awarded and a consulting firm will be hired to develop and write a Comprehensive Recreation, Parks and Open Space Plan for Hallam Borough and Hellam Township. The targeted completion date of the plan is 2013. Additionally, Hellam Township has proposed changes to its Comprehensive Plan to include language incorporating trails as modes of transportation to enhance recreation and the health and well-being of the community. In conjunction with this effort the Official Map will be revised to include trails. To further support this effort the Township will rely on data and

36

resources identified in the recently approved York County Trail Plan, (July 2011). This plan proposes four trails: the Codorus Navigation trail, Codorus-Rocky Ridge trail, a connector trail from Rocky Ridge to the Mason Dixon trail, and a York-Wrightsville Trail.

Pennsylvania’s Greenways Plan proposes a coordinated effort to create a statewide green- way system, similar to Pennsylvania’s statewide highway system. The greenway is ulti- mately expected to take the form of ‘hubs and spokes’. Hubs would be the parks, state forests, lakes and towns. These serve as destinations. The spokes will be the greenways connecting these areas with each other. The Plan envisions a coordinated effort involving many agencies of the State, national park representatives, counties, local governments and members of the public.

The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership was organized to implement the Greenways Plan. Hellam Township is part of the Lower Susquehanna Greenway Region, and the EAC is represented on the committee for that region. The Township’s location and many recreational facilities make it an important part of the regional plan. For example, the Susquehanna River along Hellam Township could provide water trail hubs. A lower Susquehanna Water Trail already exists, but there are currently no access points located in the township. The PA Fish and Boating Access Strategy ranks the Lower Susquehanna watershed 8th in priority for providing more access. The access Strategy was formulated in conjunction with the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The EAC should stay alert to water trail implementation actions and should work with the Greenway Partnership, Lancaster/York Heritage Region and York County Planning Commission, DCNR and the Fish and Boat Commission as the plan progresses.

Providing recreation and trails need not require substantial outlays by Hellam Township, but can be created as parcels are developed. The Township has the authority to require that a developer establish trails within a developed parcel. Such a requirement needs to be in place, generally within the SALDO, prior to a proposal being brought forward. Additionally, if trails are to be created on a parcel, a proposed trail network can suggest where connections to the larger network be made. Existing and proposed trails in the Township, such as the Mason Dixon Trail and the Highland Trail, will be incorporated into this network.

Hellam Township requires in its Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance that recreational lands be set aside as part of the development process, or that a fee be paid in- lieu of providing park land. The Township requires that lands be reserved on the property undergoing development, or a fee be paid to a fund specifically reserved for recreational acquisitions. The SALDO lays out specific design requirements for any parkland or open space proposed as part of the development process.

The Official Map, discussed under Land Resources, and above can be an ideal tool for recreational planning. Larger tracts that might make great community parks can be designated beforehand and then acquired, rather than letting development continue. When

37

only smaller portions of a tract are needed, as for trails, those smaller portions of a tract can be designated and a trail network can be completed over time. The Township’s Official map currently designates the Continuous Canopy Woodland Corridor Reservation, existing parks and recreation facilities and unique geological features, all of which should be assimilated into an Open Space and Recreation plan for the Township.

The EAC could serve as the municipal contact point for coordinating efforts to create/- enhance trails by other agencies, such as the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, Lancaster/York Heritage Region, Mason Dixon Trail System, York County Parks and the Lancaster and York County Planning Commissions, and the DCNR.

Options for Preserving Cultural Resources

Many of the recommendations made above for preserving natural resources work well to preserve cultural resources as well. Several that are most appropriate are discussed here, with particular emphasis on the cultural aspects.

Adopt Protective and More Flexible Ordinances

Hellam Township’s Zoning Ordinance currently designates an Historic Overlay District to encourage the preservation of locally important architectural, historical and archaeological and/or cultural elements and sites. Also, the Township SALDO requires that Preliminary Development Plans delineate areas identified in the Comprehensive Plan as areas of suspected archaeological significance and/or identified by the PHMC as containing a known or potential site of archaeological significance. All applications for zoning permits for either the purpose of exterior alteration or demolition are directed to the Kreutz Creek Valley Preservation Society (KCVPS) for review and comment as to the effect of the proposed action on the historic character of the structure, area or site. Landowners are encouraged to consider implementation of recommendations provided by KCVPS but are not required to do so. The EAC might want to consider recommending a more protective ordinance or amendment to the current ordinance regarding both historic and archaeological sites.

Hellam Township has introduced some flexibility into its zoning ordinance by offering developers a density bonus in the Rural Agricultural Zone for rehabilitation of historic structures and archaeological features. The EAC should explore other possible options for flexibility in zoning that would lead to effective preservation.

The EAC can help with the education of the community with regard to the value of preserving historic sites and buildings.

38

Work With Others

The EAC should work closely with the Kreutz Creek Valley Historical Society, Historic York and the York County Cultural Heritage Trust, as well as with local residents interested in history, to build upon the base of information about cultural and historic resources, to identify threatened resources and to consider means for their preservation. It should also contact appropriate PHMC staff for assistance in designing protective regulations and ordinances and for current information on historic preservation.

39 Restricted Development Map Hellam Township Appendix A

Legend Woodlands

Steep Slopes

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! TDR Sending Zone ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Lakes & Ponds HELLAM Wetlands TWP Stream Types WRIGHTSVILLE BORO Type "A" Stream

Type "B" Stream Riparian Buffer 25' from Floodplains

100' from Streams

100' from Wetlands Floodways FEMA established HALLAM BORO 50' from streambank Floodplain Information 0.2% Chance of Flood (No Base Flood Elevations) Zone A - 1.0 % Chance of Flood (No Base Flood Elevations) Zone AE - 1.0% Chance of Flood 1,000 0 5,000 (Base Flood Elevations) Feet Ü Municipal Boundary The York County Planning Commission provides this Geographic Information System data (collectivly the "Data") as a public 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 informaiton service. The Data is not legally recorded plan, survey, Parcels official tax map or engineering schematic and should be used only Miles for general informaiton. Resonable effort has been made to ensure that the Data is correct; however neither the Commission nor the Township guarantees its accuracy, completess or timeliness. Date Prepared: 4/25/12 Roads The Township or Commission shall not be liable for any damages that may arise from the use of the Data. Data from York County Planning Commission Natural Features and Preserved Areas Hellam Township Appendix B

Legend Woodlands HELLAM TWP Susquehanna Greenway WRIGHTSVILLE BORO Geological Feature

Natural Area

Parks

Lakes & Ponds

Wetlands Streams Attaining HALLAM Impaired BORO High Quality Stream (Trout Run) Preserved Areas Agricultural Security Areas

Transferred Development Rights

YCAPBC Easement 1,000 0 5,000 Farm & Natural Lands Trust Conservation Easement Feet Ü The York County Planning Commission provides this Geographic 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 Municipal Boundary Information System data (collectivly the "Data") as a public informaiton service. The Data is not legally recorded plan, survey, official tax map or engineering schematic and should be used only Miles Parcels for general informaiton. Resonable effort has been made to ensure that the Data is correct; however neither the Commission nor the Township guarantees its accuracy, completess or timeliness. Date Prepared: 4/25/12 The Township or Commission shall not be liable for any damages Roads that may arise from the use of the Data. Data from York County Planning Commission 1938 Aerial Photo Map Hellam Township Appendix C

CODOR US FURNAC E RD RD OW LL H O DARK C O D R O HELLAM C L A S TWP M P CO RIN AC G S RD WRIGHTSVILLE EB 30 BORO RTE Y RD LLE HWY VA OLN UCK LINC DR L O N G

Y L HW E N V OL E NC L LI R D

K

R

E

C U O

T O Z D

C U L

R C C B E K R W E T E O E 30 K HALLAM E T W D K R R R R D BORO N H D A Y R G W D S H PI N T OL M NC LI RD Y H O GA R IS K P D A T R M L N IL A M R ART D IBH DL R LE YORKANA RD IL V S Y 1,000 0 5,000 R F Legend Feet The York County Planning Commission provides this Geographic Ü Information System data (collectivly the "Data") as a public 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 informaiton service. The Data is not legally recorded plan, survey, Municipal Boundary official tax map or engineering schematic and should be used only Miles for general informaiton. Resonable effort has been made to ensure that the Data is correct; however neither the Commission nor the Township guarantees its accuracy, completess or timeliness. Date Prepared: 4/25/12 Roads The Township or Commission shall not be liable for any damages that may arise from the use of the Data. Data from York County Planning Commission 2008 Aerial Photo Map Hellam Township Appendix D

CODORUS FURN ACE R D RD OW LL H O D ARK C O D R O HELLAM C L S A P TWP OM R C ING AC S RD WRIGHTSVILLE EB 30 BORO RTE RD LEY WY VAL LN H CK NCO DRU LI

Y HW LN CO LIN

M EXIT HELLA D U C B K W T 30 HALLAM O TE W D R R BORO N H Y A W R SG H D PI N T OL M NC LI RD Y AH O SG R PI K T A M N A R D D R LE IL V S Y R 1,000 0 5,000 F Feet Ü Legend The York County Planning Commission provides this Geographic Information System data (collectivly the "Data") as a public 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 informaiton service. The Data is not legally recorded plan, survey, official tax map or engineering schematic and should be used only Miles Municipal Boundary for general informaiton. Resonable effort has been made to ensure that the Data is correct; however neither the Commission nor the Township guarantees its accuracy, completess or timeliness. Date Prepared: 4/25/12 The Township or Commission shall not be liable for any damages Roads that may arise from the use of the Data. Data from York County Planning Commission Legend Catoctin Channery Silt Loam Soils Map

CcC Cm Hellam Township Chagrin Silt Loam Appendix E Cd EdB Chester Silt Loam MRF EeD EdC EeF CeB CeC GdB Clarksburg Silt Loam MRF EeD GdB EeB EeD EeB EdB CkA CkB GbB Cd GdB MOD Codorus Silt Loam GbB EeF GbC GdB GbB CeB Cm GdB GbB DuC HELLAM EdC GbB Conestoga Silt Loam EeD EdC CeB TWP CeC DuB CnC CnB Uc EdB EeD WRIGHTSVILLE Duffield & Hagerstown Silt Loams EeF EdC EdC BORO GdB EdB DWD GdB EdC DuB CeB CnB Duffield Silt Loam UdB GbC UeB EeD EdC DuB GdB CnB Pt DuB DuC EeF EdC EdB MOB Edgemont Channery Loam EeB DuB DuB MOD MOB EeF EdB EdB EdC EdD EeB EeD EeF EeD EdC DuB GdB Lw Elk Silt Loam MOC DuB CkB CnB CnC Uc EkB DuC HALLAM MOD Glenelg Channery Silt Loam Penlaw Silt Loam MOC BORO CkA MOD DuB GbBGbC Pa Lw Glenville Silt Loam Pequea Silt Loam Pt CnB GbB CnB GdB PsC PsD MOC Highfield & Catoctin Channery Pits, Quarries CnB MOC Silt Loams CnB MPD HHD Pt Lindside Silt Loam Urban Land 1,000 0 5,000 Lw Uc UdB UeB MOC Feet Ü Mt. Airy & Manor Soils Water The York County Planning Commission provides this Geographic Information System data (collectivly the "Data") as a public 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 informaiton service. The Data is not legally recorded plan, survey, official tax map or engineering schematic and should be used only Miles MOBMOCMOD MOE MPD MRF W for general informaiton. Resonable effort has been made to ensure that the Data is correct; however neither the Commission nor the Township guarantees its accuracy, completess or timeliness. Date Prepared: 4/25/12 Municipal Boundary Parcels Roads Streams The Township or Commission shall not be liable for any damages that may arise from the use of the Data. Data from York County Planning Commission Prime Agricultural Soils Hellam Township Appendix F

HELLAM TWP WRIGHTSVILLE BORO

HALLAM BORO Legend

Class I & II Soils Class III Soils Cd DuB CcC GbC CeB EdB CeC MOB CkA EkB CnC Pa CkB GbB DuC PsC Cm GdB EdC CnB Lw

Municipal Boundary 1,000 0 5,000 Feet Streams The York County Planning Commission provides this Geographic Ü 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 Information System data (collectivly the "Data") as a public informaiton service. The Data is not legally recorded plan, survey, Roads official tax map or engineering schematic and should be used only Miles for general informaiton. Resonable effort has been made to ensure that the Data is correct; however neither the Commission nor the Parcels Township guarantees its accuracy, completess or timeliness. Date Prepared: 4/25/12 The Township or Commission shall not be liable for any damages that may arise from the use of the Data. Data from York County Planning Commission