E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation

03/24/2026

The Dockstader Foundation is proud to support Penn Township’s efforts to meet EPA and DEP mandates while enhancing local environmental stewardship.

Through our grant funding, Penn Township was able to install educational signage highlighting recent repairs to a stormwater basin—helping residents better understand how these systems manage runoff and protect water quality.

We’re honored to partner with communities like Penn Township to invest in projects that promote sustainability, education, and a healthier environment for all.

02/20/2026

Forestation project on 36 acres in Franklin Township. 11,200 trees planted at Peacedale Preserve.

02/05/2026

Avondale Borough – Pomeroy Park

Nature plantings are a lasting model for sustainable landscaping. At Pomeroy Park, Avondale Borough uses native plants to support pollinators, birds, and local ecosystems while showing how beautiful and practical sustainable landscaping can be. These plantings help educate and inspire residents to incorporate native species into their own yards for a healthier environment.

01/22/2026

The 2026 E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation online grant cycle is now open!

For more information, visit
https://www.dockstaderfoundation.org/

08/25/2025

Thanks to support from the E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation, the White Clay Watershed Association helped landowners install rain gardens and other green practices that capture stormwater, reduce flooding, and boost habitat across the watershed.

Make your yard part of the solution: whiteclay.org/catchtherain

06/23/2025

🌳 Over 11,000 Trees Planted in Landenberg! 🌳

On June 17, Natural Lands announced the completion of a major tree-planting effort at Peacedale Preserve in Landenberg, Chester County, PA.

The conservation non-profit planted 11,020 native trees and shrubs along waterways and across 36 acres of former farmland. These seedlings will grow into a thriving, diverse forest—creating habitat for wildlife and helping to protect local water quality for generations to come.

This important work was made possible through funding from the E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation, the Conservancy Grant Program, the Commissioners of Chester County, and generous donors to Natural Lands’ restoration fund.

The Dockstader Foundation is proud to support projects like this that enhance and protect our region’s natural resources. Together, we’re investing in a greener, healthier future.


Natural Lands

06/09/2025

EKDF has been providing scholarships to high school seniors in the SECCRA service area since 2011. One student from each of the schools (listed below) received a one time, $4,000 scholarship:

Unionville High School – Kai Talbert
Kennett High School - Lilly Sheward
Avon Grove Charter – Aubrey Carter
Avon Grove High School – Kellar Cimini
Oxford Area High School – Owen Hughes

This year scholarship recipients were invited to a private, half day program given by the Chester County Conservation District showcasing the work of the District to deal with environmental issues in Southern Chester County

05/28/2025

We’re proud to announce that the E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation (EKDF) has awarded $113,363 in grants to 8 outstanding nonprofit organizations in the SECCRA service area as part of our 2025 grant cycle.

These organizations are doing incredible work to protect and enhance our natural resources, educate our future leaders, and improve our communities. Grant recipients will be recognized this June at a special reception at Anson B. Nixon Park.

2025 EKDF Grant Recipients:

Brandywine Red Clay Alliance – Creating 3 wildflower meadows to support biodiversity, absorb rainwater, and protect wetlands.

Stroud Water Research Center – Renovating a facility to enhance freshwater research, watershed restoration, and environmental education.

Friends Home in Kennett – Adding native landscaping to the area surrounding their new elevator.

Coatesville Youth Initiative – Hosting Camp Quiet Thunder to teach youth about nature and inspire tomorrow’s environmental leaders.

Kennett Area Park Authority – Improving trail access and wetland protection along Red Clay Creek at Anson B. Nixon Park.

White Clay Watershed Association – Providing stormwater education and management projects for community impact.

The Garage Community and Youth Center – Launching a native species education initiative for teens.

Octorara Area High School – Building a Plein-Air Classroom with garden, meadow, and discussion areas for outdoor learning.

We’re honored to support these projects that make a real difference in our region!



Brandywine Red Clay Alliance Stroud Water Research Center Friends Home in Kennett Octorara Area High School, Atglen, PA Anson B Nixon Park

05/27/2025

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their courage and dedication will never be forgotten. Let us take a moment to reflect on their selflessness and express our gratitude.

02/17/2025

The 2025 grant process is underway. Not sure of what to do or when to do it by? Click the link to learn more about the grant process:
https://dockstaderfoundation.org/grants-and-scholarships/guidelines/grant-process/

The 2025 E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation online grant cycle is now open!

For more information, visit
https://www.dockstaderfoundation.org/

02/02/2025

The 2025 E. Kneale Dockstader Foundation online grant cycle is now open!

For more information, visit
https://www.dockstaderfoundation.org/

01/24/2025

The Cecropia Moth is the largest native North American moth, which is easy to believe looking at the size of its cocoon! Cecropias are among the many moths and butterflies that overwinter in this pupal stage of their lifecycles.

📸: Jill Sabre