Pennsbury Land Trust President Holly Manzone gave a brief presentation to township supervisors Wednesday in honor of the late Alma Forsyth, who founded the PLT in 1995. She announced that members of the land trust planted a tree this summer on township property in Forsyth’s name.
Manzone referred to Forsyth as a “tireless crusader” and a “driving force in founding our land trust. This tree is in appreciation of her work. ”
“Under Alma’s dynamic leadership, the land trust conserved hundreds of acres of land, protecting our waterways and habitats while preserving the beautiful vistas that help to make Pennsbury Township such a wonderful place to live and visit,” Manzone said.
She cited Forsyth’s efforts in fundraising, especially noting efforts with the old Balloon Festival and in other non-PLT events such as supervisors’ meetings and her involvement with The League of Women Voters and scenic byways.
“Alma had a way of pulling people out of their comfort zone. But, in the end, she got the job done, and we have all benefitted from her efforts.”
Forsyth died in January 2019, and her name is on the Distinguished Service Award plaque in the Pennsbury Township municipal building meeting room.
The tree the PLT members planted is a native American Basswood, more commonly known as a linden tree, and Manzone said it’s a symbol of healing, luck, truth, and love.
“I believe this tree will serve as a wonderful reminder of Alma Forsyth. Like Alma, this tree will stand tall, go out on a limb, reach for the sky, branch out, stay grounded, and remember her roots,” she said.
About Rich Schwartzman
Rich Schwartzman has been reporting on events in the greater Chadds Ford area since September 2001 when he became the founding editor of The Chadds Ford Post. In April 2009 he became managing editor of ChaddsFordLive. He is also an award-winning photographer.
