The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy has a long history of advancing a watershed-based approach to park and infrastructure improvements. This work began with early planning and on-the-ground projects in the Panther Hollow Watershed, where the Parks Conservancy helped demonstrate how green infrastructure can reduce flooding, improve water quality, and restore ecological function. Building on that experience, the Parks Conservancy supported watershed planning efforts in Negley Run and helped convene the Negley Run Watershed Task Force beginning in 2018, bringing together residents, agencies, and partners around shared priorities for stormwater management and neighborhood revitalization.
In 2020, the Parks Conservancy received national grant funding to support the creation of community-led Task Forces in six priority watersheds across the city. These were identified using criteria from Pittsburgh Water's Green First Plan. The Parks Conservancy led this work from 2020-2024.
Each Watershed Task Force brought together local residents, partners, and stakeholders to advance green infrastructure, improve water quality, and shape policy. Task Forces met regularly and convened periodically at All-Task Force meetings to share knowledge and collaborate city-wide.
