PennFuture Celebrates Legal Victory for Exceptional Value Streams

PennFuture and the Brodhead Watershed Association recently won a significant legal victory when the Environmental Hearing Board dismissed a challenge to the classification of Swiftwater Creek, Paradise Creek, Tunkhannock Creek and Devil’s Hole as Exceptional Value streams in the Poconos. The decision preserves the streams’ highest level of protection against degradation and is a win for communities, livelihoods, and wildlife that depend on clean water.

The challenge came from large resorts and developers seeking to expand in the region, arguing that environmental rules hinder their growth. Having relocated its northeast office to Mount Pocono, PennFuture was well positioned to intervene and continues to defend the Pocono waters against future attacks.

Alongside litigation, PennFuture works with partners through the Our Pocono Waters Campaign to promote sustainable development and protect the region’s natural assets. Supporters are encouraged to sign the campaign’s petition, attend an Oct. 30 forum at East Stroudsburg University, and contribute toward a $25,000 fundraising goal to sustain the legal defense and grassroots efforts.