About Us

Barshinger Creek Preservation Alliance is a publicly supported 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which evolved from grassroots activism to stop rezoning and development of the former Red Lion Country Club (Copper Beech) property along Barshinger Creek, in Red Lion, PA. The success of concerned citizens in stopping the development plan is a testament of the power of public involvement to inspire positive change in our world.

How we came together as a community to save the former Red Lion Country Club land:

The Land

This piece of land has historic and sentimental value to many. It is also just below the headwaters of Barshinger Creek, which empties into the East Branch of the Codorus Creek, Lakes Redman and Williams. These lakes are the source of drinking water for many in York County. Barshinger Creek is part of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay Watersheds. Many downstream also have wells and farms that are touched by the Barshinger Creek.

The Builder's Plan

A developer from the Philadelphia area planned to make a high-density housing development on this beautiful property, which would have resulted in over 150 homes being built, and the destruction of crucial wetland, meadow and wooded habitats. The increase of traffic and storm water issues in this low lying area, adjacent to 3 school campuses would have also placed great strain on our infrastructure and safety.

The Fight

Neighbors in York Township, where the property is located, Red Lion Borough, and the taxpayers of Red Lion School District, the property owner, united to fight against the developer's plan. Their opposition at Red Lion School Board and York Township hearings resulted in defeat of two zoning changes, and termination of the developer's contract.

Neighbors worked tirelessly for over a year to stop the developer.

These victories were sweet, but temporary. Now we are seeking to work with the property owner to permanently protect the land, and restore the watershed.

Thanks to your support, in July 2024, Barshinger Creek Preservation Alliance became a registered tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are actively fundraising, forming work-group committees and identifying volunteer opportunities to engage our community.