18990_Authority_Feb_2026

G rowing R oots in the C ommunity : H ow W arminster M unicipal A uthority B uilt P artnerships T hrough I ts A ward -W inning T ree P lanting E vent In 2024, Warminster Municipal Authority (WMA) deepened its commitment to public engagement and environmental stewardship through a series of community-focused stormwater events. Among these initiatives, one stood out—not only for its environmental impact, but for the partnerships and public participation it inspired. This effort, WMA’s Fall 2024 Community Tree Planting Event, earned the Authority a PMAA Community Engagement Award, recognizing its exemplary collaboration, innovation, and public involvement. A Growing Mission Since Becoming Bucks County’s First Stormwater Authority WMA serves approximately 38,000 residents and 11,000 customer accounts in Bucks County, providing water, wastewater, and stormwater services. When the Authority acquired the stormwater system in 2021 and implemented its stormwater fee in 2022—the first of its kind in the county—it also accepted the responsibility of meeting MS4 permit requirements, including the essential components of Public Education and Public Involvement . Since launching its stormwater division, WMA has placed strong emphasis on transparent communication, fee-reduction opportunities for residents, and active community partnerships. These commitments have guided the Authority’s approach to hosting stream cleanups, educational sessions, and volunteer events that invite residents to participate directly in improving local waterways. A Partnership-Powered Event The Fall 2024 Tree Planting Event exemplified WMA’s collaborative approach. Initiated through grant funding secured by State Representative Brian Munroe for the Neshaminy Watershed Association, the project brought together a diverse group of community partners, including: • Warminster Township Board of Supervisors • Members of the Warminster Municipal Authority Board • Warminster Rotary Club • Penn State Master Watershed Stewards • Warminster Township Environmental Advisory Council • Ben Wilson Senior Center • Victory Gardens • Warminster Boy Scout Troop 139 Together with WMA staff, these organizations helped design an event focused on improving riparian buffer zones—a natural and cost-effective stormwater management solution. Hands in the Dirt, Eyes on the Future Over two consecutive days, nearly 40 volunteers planted close to 80 native trees and shrubs throughout key riparian areas in Warminster. The By Daulton George, Assistant Manager, Warminster Municipal Authority