About NWA

Board and Officers

Ken Jones – Board Member and President

A software engineer by education with a background in data analytics, Ken has lived in New Britain Township for over twenty years. He became interested in native-plant gardening in 2015, then became a Tree Tender through the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in 2017 and a Master Watershed Steward through Penn State Extension in 2018. He has volunteered on and led numerous restoration projects throughout Bucks County and is now focused on growing and sustaining a strong volunteer community within the Neshaminy watershed.

Jim Walter – Board Member and Vice President

A relatively new resident of Furlong, near the Dark Hollow section of the watershed, Jim is a chemical engineer who led R&D for major chemical companies. He currently serves on the Buckingham Township Environmental Advisory Committee. Trained as a Master Gardener, Master Watershed Steward, and Master Well Owner via Penn State, he is also a Tree Tender via Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. Jim has volunteered with multiple environmental organizations including Heritage Conservancy and the local conservation district.

Brandy McKeever – Board Member and Secretary

A resident of Richland Township, Brandy holds a degree in Community & Regional Planning from Temple University, with a minor in Environmental Studies and a certificate in Environmental Sustainability. She has worked in various municipal roles in Bucks County and volunteers on restoration projects. Brandy describes a lifelong connection to the watershed, spending much of her free time along the creek and tributaries. Her credentials include Master Watershed Steward (Penn State Extension), Tree Tender (Pennsylvania Horticultural Society), and Certified Zoning Officer. She is passionate about nature and wild-crafting.

Nick Macelko – Board Member and Treasurer

Living in lower Southampton near the Neshaminy Falls and a water treatment plant, Nick has worked for organizations like Aqua, APHIS, and currently for PennDOT. He also serves on the lower Southampton Environmental Advisory Committee and has volunteered with environmental organizations like the Pennypack Ecological Trust, Wildlife Leadership Academy, Bucks County Conservation District, and the Fish & Boat Commission. Nick holds certification as a Master Watershed Steward (Penn State) and is certified in macroinvertebrate taxonomy (family level).

Ed Hawkey – Board Member

A resident of Hilltown Township for 34 years, Ed worked as a chemist in the pharmaceutical industry for 30 years. He began environmental volunteering in college and over the years has volunteered with multiple groups including state-level environmental agencies and conservation trusts. Ed has training as a Master Watershed Steward (Penn State Extension) since 2017.

Jenn Bilger – Board Member

Jenn holds a Bachelor's degree in International Studies (concentration in French) and a minor in English from Susquehanna University, and a Master's in Environmental Education from the University of New Hampshire. She has over 20 years of experience working and volunteering in environmental nonprofit organizations, serving as an Engagement Director, Conservation Manager, Summer Camp Director, & Environmental Educator at Silver Lake Nature Center, Wissahickon Trails, and Peace Valley Nature Center. She brings expertise in environmental education, community outreach, and the management of land and water resources. Currently living in Newtown with her family, Jenn enjoys kayaking, hiking, and anything outdoors; she is excited about contributing to NWA's mission in her home watershed.