Stroud Water Research Center
Avondale, PA
Project Description
The Stroud Water Research Center (SWRC) and its 800 ha, 3rd-order drainage basin was designated in 1981 as an Experimental Ecological Reserve by the National Science Foundation. This designation recognizes that this field research facility is dedicated to long-term experimental research on an ecosystem that is an outstanding representative of its type. The East Branch of White Clay Creek is classified by the State of Pennsylvania as an “Exceptional Value” stream and watershed which is the highest classification given by the State. The designation affords the stream and its watershed special protection against environmental disturbance of anthropogenic origin.
The SWRC is located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, about 40 miles (65 km) WSW of Philadelphia, and about 60 miles (95 km) NE of Baltimore. The Center is situated adjacent to White Clay Creek in the Pennsylvania Piedmont physiographic province. White Clay Creek is a tributary of the Christina River which flows into the Delaware Bay.
The SWRC’s scientific staff is internationally acclaimed for its pioneering research on streams and rivers. The scientists work in interdisciplinary research teams, blending their individual talents in chemistry, microbial ecology, invertebrate biology, watershed ecology, and ecosystem modeling to study the physical, chemical, and biological processes of streams and rivers, the life histories of individual organisms, and the ecology of watersheds.
NSI will play a key role in the integration of wastewater infrastructure and the rest of the project systems. NSI utilizes a holistic and participatory design approach that engages key stakeholders throughout the design
development process. The new building will expand and enhance the capabilities of the current SWRC by adding office, laboratory, and classroom space for growing programs.
