Keep Bucks County Beautiful, an affiliate of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, was formed on October 12th, 2011, with the support of the Bucks County Conservation District.  Gretchen Schatschneider will serve as the Affiliate Coordinator.  Ms. Schatschneider is the District Manager of the Bucks County Conservation District.

In July, 2011, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful released its report on illegal dumps in Bucks County.  The Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful survey of the county identified 123 illegal dumpsites containing an estimated 223 tons of trash.  Of the items inventoried at each dumpsite assessed, 76% of the sites contained tires, 71% contained yard waste, 67% had construction and demolition waste, 66% had recyclables, and 54% of the sites had household trash.  Illegal dumpsites pose many threats to the health and safety of humans and wildlife, including giving mosquitoes a place to breed.  West Nile Virus, carried by mosquitoes, has been a primary concern for environmental officials. 

An initial goal of Keep Bucks County Beautiful will be to work with volunteer groups, municipalities, and community partners to get these sites cleaned and have them remain clean.  The affiliate will also be promoting and distributing Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful educational materials in Bucks County schools and other outreach opportunities. The affiliates’ three focus areas are Prevent It (litter and illegal dump prevention), Clean It (cleanup and community greening), and Keep It (proper waste handling and sustainable practices).

Individuals and groups interested in volunteering can contact Keep Bucks County Beautiful at 215-345-7577 ext. 106 or e-mail.