Fish passages assist the upstream migration of American shad during their springtime spawning run up the Schuylkill River, which has been hindered since the dams were built in the early 19th Century. The fish passage facility was constructed at the Black Rock Dam by Exelon Generation, LLC.
In 2011, the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources honored the Chester County Parks Department with the 2nd Annual Green Park Award, recognizing excellence in the green and sustainable park practices at Black Rock Sanctuary.
Characteristics of a Green Park
- Sustainable Site Principles (eg., topsoil retention)
- Natural Landscaping Principles (native plants, meadows)
- Connecting People to Nature
- Managing Stormwater Naturally (ie., Best Management Practices)
- Conserve Energy/ Integrate Green Design and Construction Practices (eg., use of recycled materials)
Interpretive Trail
We encourage you to hike the .80 mile, ADA-accessible interpretive trail at Black Rock Sanctuary and enjoy the rich, natural wonders that this trail has to offer. Along the trail you will see wetlands that provide habitat for mammals, reptiles, amphibians and migratory birds. Seasonal changes affect water levels, plants and wildlife, so be sure to return often to see how nature varies throughout the year.
Learn about establishing a native meadow from a case study on the Sanctuary.