The challenge to save Erdenheim Farm is daunting but doable. Significant funds need to be raised in a relatively short time, but concrete steps have already been taken. Because of its historic, environmental, and aesthetic importance to the region, many entities, both public and private, have expressed interest in providing support, and several have already committed funds.
The Foundation's fundraising efforts will include appeals to state and county public agencies involved with open space preservation, all of which have expressed their interest in seeing the farm preserved.
At the local level, Whitemarsh Township, which recently passed an earned income tax of .25% for open space protection, has identified the preservation of Erdenheim Farm as a primary goal in its 2006 Open Space Plan. The Foundation anticipates that some portion of these new open space revenues will be directed toward helping to secure the farm.
On the private sector side, the Foundation is approaching philanthropies and corporations that have identified an interest in open space or agricultural preservation, as well as those concerned with supporting public environmental education opportunities.
And of course, there are the many private individuals, at all economic levels, who want to see this extraordinary regional treasure preserved for future generations. They, too, will play a critical role in helping the Foundation achieve its goal.
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