The Tobyhanna Creek/Tunkhannock Creek Watershed Association was formed in 1991 to promote awareness of the exceptional value of our lakes, streams and wetlands. The map pages on this website present a clear picture of the intricately linked mosaic of swamps, creeks and lakes that sustain us along with a rich abundance of plant and animal life, both common and rare. The watershed also contains the Long Pond Barrens, an ecosystem unlike any other in the world, where wetland plants thrive in conditions that should not be able to support them. Natural scientists are studying what remains of this barrens area (much of it has been lost to development) in an attempt to explain the contradiction.

Sadly, if predictably, human impacts pose a potential threat to the quality of our water and our remarkable landscape. The threat is now imminent. Most of our watershed lies within Monroe County which has become the second fastest growing county in Pennsylvania. Parts of the county have fallen victim to suburban sprawl and some of its streams (outside of our own watershed) have been degraded. Past efforts to gain control of planning and land use in the county have been less than successful because of outmoded state law, uncontrolled development and a general lack of public will and awareness.

Against this backdrop, TC/TCWA was formed to bring together people who want to see our natural heritage maintained for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations. We're moving toward this goal in several ways.

By gathering baseline data on current water quality, we're able to determine the state of our watershed with a reasonable degree of scientific accuracy. By noting variations from the norm at any of our 32 sites around the watershed, we can address problems when they become detectable and before they get out of hand.

By putting out informational material on septic system  maintenance and common sources of lake pollution, we help prevent degradation before it happens.

By working with township and county governments, private associations and responsible developers, we  attempt to ensure that sound land use and management practices are followed.

By supporting and participating in the Monroe 2020 process, we give our members input in determining the future course of growth in the county.

If you share these goals and want to support them, become a TC/TCWA member now.

Visit the Join TC/TCWA page, complete the form and send in your dues. Then come to one of our monthly meetings and learn how you can get more involved.