With steep wooded slopes and containing a portion of the environmentally vital Bushkill Creek, the newly preserved area creates a scenic backdrop for the property's historic mill, which dates back to late 1800s. 

 

"The Heyer Mill property also contains several valuable water and hydrologic resources that include  Bushkill Creek and its surrounding floodplain," said Jeff Marshall, VP of Resource Protection for the Conservancy. "The environmental impact to the community is significant, as the Creek
has been designated in Chapter 93 of the Pennsylvania Code as a High-Quality Cold Water Fishery stream within the Bushkill watershed." 

 

According to the Bushkill Township Official Map, the Heyer Mill property is also located along a proposed greenway that is to be preserved for open space. The Township has recognized the corridor along Bushkill Creek (where the property is situated) as a priority for preservation. 

 

Heyer Mill is the only historic mill remaining today in Bushkill Township," said Jason Smith, Supervisor in Bushkill Township. "Preservation of the natural areas on this site provides long-term protection for water quality of Bushkill Creek, the historic setting at Heyer Mill and the high quality coldwater fishery along some of our Township's finest waters.  As a High Quality Coldwater Fishery, Bushkill Creek supports the natural reproduction of trout."

 

The conservation easement was purchased with funding provided by the Northampton County Open Space Program, with matching funding from Bushkill Township.  This voluntary land preservation agreement will preserve this special property in perpetuity.