PENN’S STEWARDS

News from the Parks

and Forests Foundation Spring 2008 Connecting the Positives: ‘ Governor’s Outdoor Conference’ Set the Tone—Others are Setting the Pace —Terry Brady, DCNR t’s the goal of every good environmental educator to present growing disconnect of young people from a love of the out- I an interesting program that draws a heavy public turnout. doors that Schweiger said was instilled in him by his father Problem was, the crew at Jennings Environmental Education long ago. Center had too much of a good thing. “We only save what we love and we only love what we know,” When the last of 150 listeners filed into the center’s meeting Schweiger said. room, the last of 90 seats were long gone. Was it cabin fever? If hunters have emerged as a primary tool in managing white- The topic? Organizers would like to think there was more draw- tailed deer numbers and aiding in forest regeneration, what hap- ing all those visitors out of their homes on a frigid Sunday in pens when the young no longer hunt? late February to attend a work- shop on Eastern bluebirds and If anglers and boaters long have their habitat. Swelling the audi- led the charge for cleaner, safer ence, to be sure, was the silver- waters, what happens when haired birding set, but another youngsters no longer delight in group was conspicuous that day watching a bobber dance on the as the crowd gathered outside lake’s surface, or look forward to Slippery Rock, Butler County. a boat ride with a loved one? Young people were there in force. And, what happens to our hiking Teens stopped texting and talking and biking trails, natural pre- long enough to listen. Others, serves and wild areas when more 8-, 10-, 12-years old, broke away and more young people on from their computer games and weekends reach for the TV TV shows. A strong showing of remote and computer mouse young faces was good news to the rather than walking sticks, hel- educators; better news for the mets, bird identification manuals future of the bluebird—for with and “topo” maps? education comes awareness, and DCNR Geologist Bill Kochanov unlocks fossil mysteries at , Carbon County, for Oil City High School It’s called disconnect. It’s hap- from there, action. Sometimes. Students Kyle Lindey (left) and Jaren Schwab. pening in Pennsylvania’s very Larry Schweiger likes to take his small towns and very large listeners back to a recent unsettling jetliner ride: very few cities. It’s being documented across the nation, and transcend- clouds, the morning sun rising at just the right angle, and a ing state borders and all age and economic levels. Simply, fewer friendly, knowledgeable pilot—a stage set for a spectacular air people are seeking outdoors enjoyment. show. And yet Schweiger couldn’t take his eyes off one very From an environmental perspective, we know participation disinterested member of the viewing audience. Nearby, like a leads to stewardship. Thinning ranks of the outdoorsmen and giant spider wrapped around a tiny web, a teen-aged youth women mean more holes in an environmental defense; less furiously worked over his “Game Boy” controls, never looking license income to fund department services and land acquisi- up as the pilot’s voice came over the inter-com: “Folks, if you tions; and fewer volunteers to help tackle costly projects. And, look out the nearest window you’ll see one of most spectacular for state merchants and businesses from Ambler to Zelienople, views of the Grand Canyon that I’ve ever seen in all my years it means loss of a very lucrative business. of flying.” What to do? Gov. Edward G. Rendell took a very big first step, One passenger could care less. “His eyes never left that Game calling together those 300, including the Pennsylvania Parks Boy, not for a single second,” Schweiger told some 300 listen- and Forests Foundation, to address critical issues surrounding ers gathered in March 2007 at the start of the Governors Pennsylvanians' connection to the outdoors. Participants left Outdoor Conference. Why? There are no easy answers, the the conference energized and enthusiastic about reconnecting president and chief executive officer of the National Wildlife people to Pennsylvania’s outdoors. Federation told his audience, just a host of reasons for the —Continued on page 6 P a g e 2 From the President —Marci Mowery President t is with open arms that I time outdoors than my age cohorts (which Marci Mowery I welcome spring back to wasn’t that long ago, thank you very much.)

Board of Directors Pennsylvania. While I enjoy More and more, we find children attached to an winter and the outdoor electrical outlet via a game, television or com- Chair sports, it seems that our win- puter. When they are outdoors, it is often Wendy McLean ters are less snow and more through organized sports as opposed to free Partner, Lentz, Cantor, Massey, Ltd. gray than they were when play. At the same

Vice Chair I was a child. I remember sledding for hours at time, the diagnosis the neighbor’s house and building snow people of Attention Deficit Hank Barnette Chairman Emeritus, Bethlehem Steel and igloos. And truth have it, winter still finds Disorder and child- me engaged in these activities when conditions hood obesity con- Secretary are appropriate—I make incredible snow an- tinue to rise. Does Brian J. Clark gels. But spring brings a whole new set of out- a connection exist? Buchanan Ingersol door pursuits like bike New research might

Treasurer riding, hiking and pad- lead us to believe dling. so. Robert Griffith Director, PA Recreation and Park Society My memories of a child- This issue of our

Peter S. Duncan hood spent outdoors newsletter shares Former Secretary, PA DER shaped the adult that I some ways in which you can explore became. I find peace and Pennsylvania. William C. Forrey contentment when hiking Aurora We are fortunate in Pennsylvania to a trail, paddling a stretch have a park located within 25 miles of Ken Gaudi of water, or gazing at the Manager, State Government Affairs, nearly every citizen—a mere gallon of Dominion stars. I also find my in- gas away. We have 2.1 million acres of spiration in nature. I Above Right: Preparing state forests, and countless other acreage of Bruce Heggenstaller forged lifelong friendships V.P. of Operations, Woolrich, Inc. to spend the day splash- county and municipal parks. These free venues over campfires as a Girl ing in the water of the for outdoor exploration await us—if only we William Mifflin Scout and became a Bennet’s Branch at the make the time. Challenge yourself to get out- President, TRACEYINC. shadow to my grandfather family camp near Drift- wood, PA. doors, and to take a child with you. Create a Raphael J. Musto as we explored trails in the Above: My passion for memory. Forge a friendship. Be. State Senator, 14th District northern part of the state. my Big Wheel grew into John C. Oliver, III Yet research shows that a passion for bicycles as Yours in the Outdoors —Marci Former Secretary, PA DCNR I grew older. Photos: children today spend less Marci Mowery George E. Stark NiSource Corporation Service

David Spigelmyer Equitable Resources New Board Members for PPFF

Rob Wonderling Ken Gaudi serves as State past two decades, he has helped with the pas- State Senator, 24th District Government Affairs Manager sage of several important pieces of legislation.

Ex-Officio with Dominion Resources Inc., He is very active in promoting the business Michael DiBerardinis headquartered in Richmond, VA. community in Pennsylvania; Ken is a member Secretary, PA DCNR He is primarily responsible for of the Government Affairs Committee of the all lobbying activities for the Honorary Members Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Indus- company in Harrisburg and try and was past Chairman of the Committee’s Linda McKenna Boxx maintains constant communica- Subcommittee on Taxes. He is also a member Joseph Ibberson tion with key members of the General Assembly of the Government Affairs Committees of the and Pennsylvania government agencies regard- The newsletter is published by the Pennsyl- Pennsylvania Business Council, the Energy vania Parks and Forests Foundation. ing legislation of interest to the Dominion family Association of Pennsylvania, and the Pitts- To be added to the mailing list, or to com- (Peoples Gas, Transmission, Generation, ment, contact Marci Mowery at burgh Chamber of Commerce. [email protected]. Storage, and Retail), other gas utilities and the business community as a whole. A strong proponent of quality higher educa- PA Parks and Forests Foundation tion, Ken was a member of the Board of Trus- 105 N. Front Street, #305 Prior to joining Peoples Gas (now Dominion), Harrisburg, PA 17101 tees of Clarion University for 8 years, where (717)236-7644 Ken was Director of Regulatory and Committee he earned his Bachelors Degree. www.PaParksAndForests.org Affairs for the Pennsylvania Electric Associa- tion. All totaled, Ken has 35 years of lobbying His past professional activities include Chair- Newsletter editing, layout, writing man of the American Gas Association’s State and design: Ellen Zeph, experience in the Pennsylvania General Assem- [email protected] bly which has helped him build and earn an ami- and Local Subcommittee, Chairman of the cable reputation with the Legislature. During the Pennsylvania Gas Association Government President’s Pick P a g e 3 The President’s Picks column features a place or With 83,000 miles of rivers and streams in the point of interest you may want to explore. state, there are many opportunities for canoe- Farewell Cliff Jones

hen I thought about where I wanted to ing and camping on our waterways. It is with much sadness that we share with W recommend for this issue of Chose a river that fits your skill level and time “President’s Picks,” the first thing that came to you the available. To learn about river trails of passing of mind was canoeing. Joe and I introduced his Pennsylvania visit www.fish.state.pa.us/ one of the boys to canoe- watertrails/trailindex.htm or founders ing on the Sus- susquehannarivertrail.org. of the quehanna Pennsyl- River last year, Other good resources are local vania Parks during a day canoe or paddling clubs that of- and trip from fer lessons and lead trips. Forests Foundation, Cliff Jones. Marysville to Cliff’s enthusiasm and drive helped West Fairview, build the organization, as he re- in the Harris- cruited board members, shaped the vision, hired staff and encour- burg area. Dur- aged interns to come to the foun- ing our lei- dation. surely paddle we saw a myr- Cliff will be remembered for many iad of bird things. He had a long career of life, including Great Egrets, Black Crowned public service in Pennsylvania, Night Herons and Osprey. We watched a wa- serving six governors in cabinet ter snake swim with a baby cat fish gripped in positions as Secretary of Com- its powerful jaws. When an unexpected storm merce, Secretary of Labor and Industry, and Secretary of Envi- forced us onto one of the river islands, we ronmental Resources. He also delighted in watching the boys use their served as Chairman and member imagination to build forts from downed of the Pennsylvania Public Utility branches and Japanese knotweed, an invasive Commission. He was President plant that grows on many of the river islands. Left, Canoeing along the Susquehanna. Photo: Joe of Pennsylvanian's for Effective Dirty from head to toe, three boys, ranging in Frassetta. Above, paddling on the Allegheny River. Government and retired as Presi- age from 11-13, grinning from ear to ear, used Photo: Marci Mowery dent of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. their creativity to make a fortress. His passion for conservation and nature was reflected in his many continued volunteer activities. He served on New Board Members— the boards of the Hawk Mountain Affairs Committee, and a past member of the tions. Dave serves as a primary government Sanctuary Association, The liaison in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ken- Nature Conservancy of PA, the Jeannette School Board, the Jeannette Jaycees, and Wild Resources Conservation the Camp Hill Jaycees. Ken received a citation for tucky and Virginia for Equitable Resources and Fund, Pennsylvania Environmental meritorious service while serving as a member of has served a similar role in both Ohio and New Council, Pennsylvania Wildlife the East Pennsboro Industrial and Commercial York. Federation, Pennsylvania Audubon Development Authority in 1985. Beyond his work in Government Relations, Society and the Pennsylvania Parks Dave leads the External Communications func- and Forests Foundation. Through- out his life he received numerous tion for Equitable Resources and has served as a accolades and honors. Dave Spigelmyer has invested primary media spokesperson. a 20-year career in the natural Cliff lived his life to the fullest, and gas industry building bridges Dave is Vice-President of Public Affairs for the touched many people with his between government officials, Equitable Resources Foundation Operating positive attitude and can-do ap- community leaders, philan- Committee, serves on the Board of the Moraine proach to any task. Some of the thropic organizations and the natural gas industry. Trails Council of the Boy Scouts of America, things he taught me is that all serves as President of the Board of Directors for problems are solvable, sometimes Dave began his career working in customer ac- the West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Associa- you just need to take a look from counting and consumer business in 1983. He tion, is the Board Secretary for Energize West a different angle. He also taught moved quickly into his government relations role Virginia and he is the past Gas Executive Com- me that ego often stands in the way of reaching our goals. by serving the industry through a two-year loan mittee Chairman for the Energy Association of program with the American Gas Association in Pennsylvania. We will miss Cliff, but know that Washington, DC. He has an extensive background he has created a legacy and his in pipeline and production operations and served Dave and his wife Francie have two children memory will live on. key leadership roles in natural gas utility opera- and reside north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. —Marci Mowery P a g e 4 Friends of Prince Gallitzen t all started in 2006, when a group of and is working to obtain sponsors to help Prince Gallitzen I local business owners who wanted to offset costs. The calendars are also sold at resurrect an event that had taken place in the park and events to help raise money for

State Park past years called Mountain Days ap- additional projects. Prince Gallitzen State Park was named proached then Park Manager Barry Wolfe, for Father Demetrius Augustus Gallitzen, about forming an alliance with PPFF. Bringing Back the Osprey son of Russian nobility, who came to this Representatives from the local businesses, When the group isn’t busy planning major country in 1792 and played an important the park, and PPFF all got together to role in the settling of central northern events, they assist park staff with other Cambria County. discuss the possibility of a friends group projects like the Osprey Reintroduction and the Friends of Prince Gallitzen State Program. Volunteers helped to construct Park began. Twelve directors the special “hacking” tower form the core of the group and provide fish to feed the with additional volunteers birds. They also promote the assisting with fundraising and project by educating the pub- special events. lic about the process of rein- troducing species like the Mountain Days Osprey. The birds are mak- The Friends of Prince Gal- ing a comeback and the chap- litzen now have a lead role in ter sited their involvement in the Mountain Days event this project as one of their Summer Fun at Prince Gallitzen State Park. which draws upwards of greatest accomplishments in Photo: Prince Gallitzen State Park 60,000 people over three days Park Manager Dan Bickel with 2007. in August. Although activities the Easter Bunny. Photo: Friends of Prince Gallitzen. Plans for the Future Located in Cambria County, the 6,249- take place inside and outside acre park is in the Allegheny Plateau the park, the friends manage the activities The group put in a butterfly garden at the Region of Pennsylvania. The 1,600-acre inside the park which includes craft ven- park this spring and are working on addi- Glendale Lake is a major attraction with its nine public boat launching areas, dors, helicopter rides, food vendors, hay tional marketing campaigns to promote three public mooring facilities, two rides, a boat regatta and fireworks. The themselves and to attract new members marinas that offer slips, and a watercraft committee that was running the event in who can help manage trails or are inter- concession that offers boat rentals, the past will be joining forces with the ested in working on other projects. The repairs and fuel sales. friends—”this will allow us to promote the friends are also raising funds for a new For outdoor fun, visitors can picnic at park and local businesses around the park playground at the campground. Last year, one of five pavilions, and over 1,000 and make the event even larger than it is,” the group formed a partnership with the picnic tables. Enjoy the horseback riding says chapter President, Terri Coccia. Coast Guard who had already been helping area, biking on park roads, mountain out with the boat regatta during Mountain biking and hiking on the 20-mile snow- Getting Families Outdoors mobile trail network, or fishing for bass, Days. The plan is to work together to do pike and muskellunge on Lake Glandale. All our events are family-focused, says some additional educational events in the Two major feeder streams to the Lake Terri. But the chapter programs revolve future. are also stocked with trout. around kids—from educational fishing

If you plan to come for an overnight events and Easter Egg Hunts to ice skating, stay, a 399-site tent and trailer camp- the group entices families out to the park You Can Help ground complete with camp store, laun- for fun and to enjoy recreational activities. ♦ dry facilities, showers and flush toilets, Future plans include bird watching, ice Volunteer your time and exper- a swimming beach, boat mooring area, skating and sled riding. Stay tuned. tise—join the Friends! boat rental and playground area should ♦ Join the Friends —annual member- suit you just fine! A Picture is Worth. . . ship is just $15 per household. Families can enjoy the environmental Last year marked the first year for what is ♦ Support the Friends by making a education and interpretive programs becoming an annual photo contest. For a that take place from spring through au- financial contribution . tumn. Wildlife watching opportunities $5 entry fee, the public was invited to sub- also abound—visitors can enjoy migra- mit photos which were displayed in the To Make a Contribution tory waterfowl on the lake, ducks, her- park office. The public was then invited to Make checks payable to PPFF/FOPGSP ons and rails in the wetland areas, war- vote on their favorites. The group received and mail to: Friends of Prince Gallitzen blers and vireos in the forested areas, 131 entries and the top 13 were selected and butterflies in the fields. Perhaps you State Park, 966 Marina Road, Patton, PA for what became a 2008 calendar. The will catch a glimpse of one of the Osprey 16686. on the lake—the park has been reintro- grand prize was the photo on the calendar ducing them to the area. You can find cover and a free weekend cabin rental at For more information: Contact the park more information about Prince Gallitzen the park. Next year, the group plans to office (814) 674-1000 or Terri Coccia, State Park at visitPaParks.com . have a panel of judges vote on the entries chapter president, (814) 931-4269 or [email protected] Friends of P a g e 5 ormed only in June of 2007, the August and September, featuring food pre- F Friends of Shikellamy State Park im- pared by area restaurants. Local musicians mediately went to work to make their pres- will once again perform. With a different Shikellamy State Park ence known. Fifteen members volunteered group for each brunch, you will be able to Named in honor of the famous Iroquois 350 hours of their time from June— enjoy everything from jazz and blues to folk Chief Shikellamy, Shikellamy State Park guitarists to trios, while dining along the spans Union and Northumberland coun- December to get the group started. ties and is a park with two distinct areas. The group decided to launch into a series Susquehanna. One is Packer’s Island—with its large of events to entice area residents to come A series of Thursday evening Community out and enjoy the park, and to introduce Concerts is also planned throughout the themselves. summer and will take place at the newly constructed natural amphitheater at Sunday Brunch in the Park Shikellamy Overlook. What could be better—good food, music Visitors are invited to welcome summer at and fellowship on a Sunday in the park the first Summer Solstice event. A day of along the ? In June and activities are planned at the Shikellamy September 2007, the Friends hosted two Overlook. Visit the website (listed below) brunches in the park. The first event in for more information. Other events planned include a Barbeque Cook-Off and Fall Equinox celebration in marina which provides boating access to September, another Local Fall Harvest Lake Augusta, and the other is Festival in October, and to round out the Shikellamy Overlook—providing pano- ramic views of Packer’s Island and the year, Community Caroling in December. of the North and West Branches of the Susquehanna River. Photos: At left , families enjoy Sunday Brunch in the park. Below , stage coach and hay rides were popular Picnicking is available in both areas of the at the Fall Harvest Festival last October. Top Right , park. Pavilions are available by reserva- Boating at the confluence of the North and West Branches of the Susquehanna River. Photos: Julia tion or on a first-come, first-served ba- Marano, Friends of Shikellamy. sis. Shikellamy Overlook has hiking trails, while the Shikellamy Marina offers paved trails.

June attracted 75 curious people who were One of the biggest attractions is the interested in learning more about just who 3,060-acre Lake Augusta—formed by these “Friends” were and what they were “the world’s largest” inflatable dam. up to. The word must have gotten out, as Boaters can utilize the 23 marina slips by the time the September brunch rolled offered on seasonal leases, or there is a boat launching area for day-use boaters. around, the attendance nearly doubled to There are also two sets of courtesy 140! docks for temporary boat docking.

The popularity of the brunches translated Besides boating, fishing for bass and wall- into even better attendance at the Fall Har- eye on the lake is popular as is hiking vest Festival in October where 200 people along the two miles of paved trails that turned out to enjoy food, fun, music. A encircle the marina. Visitors might enjoy viewing deer, songbirds, wildflowers and variety of activities took place including You Can Help butterflies while strolling along the one- ♦ hay rides, pumpkin painting and scavenger Volunteer your time and mile nature trail. hunts for kids, stage coach rides and more. expertise—join the Friends! Area food growers were also on hand pro- ♦ Support the Friends by making a Enjoy spectacular views of the Susque- moting “buy fresh, buy local,” while three hanna River and towns of Sunbury and financial contribution . Northumberland from the Shikellmay chefs cooked up and served samples of the To Make a Contribution Overlook. Different forest stages are food. According to the Friends Co-Chair evident from scrub to mature hardwood Julia Marano, “the group was pleased with Make checks payable to Friends of and unique geologic formations can be the consistent growth in attendance at the Shikellamy State Park and mail to: found along the eastern boundary cliff events and felt it clearly demonstrated the 254 Orange Street trail extension. Northumberland, PA 17857 resident’s interest in participating and the You can find more information about need for the Friends Group.” To find out more about volunteer oppor- Shikellamy State Park visitPaParks.com. New Year, More Fun Planned tunities, contact Julia Marano at: Visit the calendar of events page for [email protected] or visit: information on upcoming activities This year, the group has big plans. More friendsofshikellamy.org at the park. Sunday brunches are planned in June, July, P a g e 6 Connecting the Positives —Continued from Page 1 DCNR employees and other participants The ultimate goal of each camp is to realized that many innovative programs introduce 25 students to conservation and already exist like those detailed below. environmental careers, and encourage their pursuit. From stream sampling of fish and ECO Camp Opens Doors to New aquatic life, to forestry skills, daily activities Adventure, Career Opportunities are planned to get students out in the field in the Great Outdoors to meet and observe environmental profes- Molly Dendas may have been a tad hesitant sionals. two years ago when she accepted DCNR Offered without charge, the instruction and Secretary DiBerardinis’ annual invitation for daily activities are overseen by specialists young people across the state to apply for and officials of DCNR’s bureaus of state DCNR’s summer residential camps for high- parks, forestry, and topographic and geologic school students interested in pursuing envi- survey. Selected students in grades 10 -12 are ronmental careers. Then she was an 18-year- provided a hands-on, team-building learning old Nazareth high school student; now she’s experience in an outdoor setting. a college student majoring in geology—and After the camps, attendees have a chance to Environmental Careers Outdoors (ECO) seek internships, mentoring and job- Camps showed the way. shadowing positions, and return as future “Coming to ECO Camp as a first-time stu- camp leaders. dent, I quickly learned the DCNR staff and counselors truly are amazing,” said Dendas. New Partnerships Encourage City “You know they’re not doing it for the Teens to Explore the World of A Beltzville State Park fossil find money, they’re not here to just get paid. They State Parks delights ECO Camper Yonis are here because they want to help guide the Santamella of Nazareth. Last summer it was Harrisburg and Philadel- next generation to oversee the environment.” phia. This summer the arena is broadening to “The camps include six more cities where DCNR and are among urban recreation staff will partner to intro- DCNR’s duce young people to the adventure, beauty strongest suc- and learning opportunities found in nearby cess stories state parks. “These camps are a worthy and we again Its second year of operation will see DCNR investment in the future of are commit- Adventure Camp extended into Pittsburgh, our youth and our natural ted to provid- Erie, Scranton, York, Williamsport and the ing camps in Lehigh Valley. resources, and DCNR both south staffers proudly support central and A return to Harrisburg is welcome news for them. Canoe with these northeastern Rick Hicks, who last year watched teens— young campers, or join Pennsyl- many of whom he knew—file them in a breakfast conver- vania,” Secre- tary DiBer- off a van for a sation and you know ECO camper Ashley Wilmont of ardinis said. day of hiking at instantly they represent Unionville takes a breather after “As the pro- Kings Gap En- a unique pool of intelli- participating in a stage capsized gram enters vironmental canoe rescue at Beltzville State Park. gence, spirit and commit- its seventh Education Cen- ter near Car- ment to environmental year, we now are seeing past campers emerg- ing as future stewards of this state’s bountiful lisle, Cumber- improvement.” natural resources. We know we have been land County. —DCNR Secretary successful in honing an awareness of the The experience “opens up a Michael DiBerardinis natural world and the variety of careers found there.” whole new world” to his The week-long camps are offered in June at young charges, the Kings Gap Environmental Education and said the sports Lunch is always a favorite activity Training Center, near Carlisle, Cumberland of Adventure Campers gathered and special pro- at Kings Gap. County; and in July at the Kirby Episcopal gram coordina- House and Chapel, Glen Summit, Luzerne tor for Harrisburg’s Parks and Recreation County. Department. Connecting the Positives—Continued from Page 6 P a g e 7

“You know it’s working when a kid who ager. “Our state parks and forests lives to play basketball every day tells you, have amazing outdoor recreation opportuni- ‘I really had fun’,” Hicks said. “And that ties, yet we have struggled with engaging a could have been fishing for the first time, or more urban audience in our programs. Opportunities for looking for fossils. One kid actually had the “City park and recreation departments have confidence to start swimming lessons.” amazing kids coming to their facilities, yet Outdoor Experiences struggle with providing outdoor recreation in State Parks and nature-based programming. These camps maximized strengths in a way that ♦ Environmental Careers Out- created unforgettable experiences door (ECO) Camps—week for everyone involved.” long summer residential camps for high school students. For Keystone Active Zones Encouraging ECO Camp enrollment appli- Use of Our Local Parks and Trails cations and information, tele-

phone (717) 783-4356; or send an email to: [email protected]. YOU can sponsor a camper Adventure Campers enjoy fishing at Gifford Pinchot or send a donation to help State Park in York County. send a youth to ECO Camp. Another city, another endorsement from a Contact the numbers listed Philadelphia Parks and Recreation official: above for more information.

“Many of these kids do not see their ♦ Keystone Active Zones— future beyond next week. They do Community recreation and not venture out of their immediate neighbor- health programs in partnership hood,” said Kathi Muller. “I believe that a with county recreation depart- seed has been planted that will become an ments and other local partners opportunity for them to reach beyond their across the commonwealth: current world. We may never fully know keystoneactivezone.com the impact of the experience, but rest assured ♦ that each young person has been touched in Get Outdoors PA—outdoor recreation programs to help some way." people rediscover Pennsylvania In unveiling the Adventure Camps last sum- state parks and forests: mer, DiBerardinis noted many state parks are getoutdoorspa.state.pa.com in rural areas while populations are concen- ♦ iConserve—new website to trated in urban areas. Partnerships with the ECO Camp contacts and friendships are treasured inspire conservation, protec- cities “open the door to a new opportunity to by Chad Barclay of Indiana. tion and enjoyment of natural connect our state parks with urban youth,” resources: iConservePA.org With childhood obesity and sedentary life- he said. ♦ styles on the rise, health officials are looking State Parks and Forests Envi- “We hope an exciting outdoor adventure will for creative ways to encourage people to ronmental Education Pro- not only make them repeat visitors, but will adopt healthy living practices. One such grams—Naturalists and educa- teach them about diversity in the natural innovative program was launched in May tors at 117 state parks and world so as citizens they are lifelong stew- 2006 when DCNR joined officials from the forests provide many out- ards and make wise decisions about what our Pennsylvania Advocates for Nutrition and standing programs throughout world looks like,” DiBerardinis said. Activity (PANA) and others in Chambers- the year. Visit: dcnr.state.pa.us or call Participants, ranging in age from 12 to 15, burg to kick-off Keystone Active Zones 800-PA-PARKS. are already involved in recreational programs (KAZ), a new program designed to help ♦ in the various cities. Activities include team- counties promote physical activity for their Visit the following link for building, compass use/orienteering, nature residents at parks and trails close to home. more information on water photography, fishing, paddling, climbing and trails, rail trails, and all the rappelling, camping basics and free time for The campaign is designed to provide an outdoor opportunities for you opportunity to develop community partner- personal outdoors adventures. and your family at our state ships among recreation, education, health parks and forests: “One of the most rewarding parts of spear- advocates and other non-profit partners, and http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/ heading this effort was being able to create build support for local parks and trails. KAZs Calendar/list.asp?intDivisionID=3 a true win-win situation,” said Heather feature a web-based inventory to help Bennett, DCNR’s outdoor recreation man- residents find —Continued on page 8 P a g e 8 Connecting the Positives —Continued from Page 7 information about activities at nearby parks Established by the Pennsylvania Department and trails, county maps and a passport incen- of Health, PANA is a statewide coalition of tive program to encourage their use. more than 500 public, private, academic,

“Many people would find it convenient to get professionals and volunteer groups. “The lifestyles of all some exercise and fresh air if they only had to Awareness in the Wild: DCNR Pennsylvanians are take a five or 10 minute trip or could even Parks and Forests at the Head of enhanced daily by the their Class tremendous amount of You may have heard them bring to life the recreational and leisure mysteries of the night forest, or trace stars activities provided by the burning bright in the inky void above you. commonwealth’s parks and They may have led your children in pursuit of Pennsylvania’s bugling bull elk, a rare forests. The more people relic prairie flower or a glimpse at a lifestyle connect to their parks and of yesteryear. forests, the better apprecia- They are the men and women who wear the tion they will have for our emblem of DCNR. They are the backbone of natural world. We hope environmental awareness in counties where people not only take from verdant ridges stretch into the horizon, and these experiences great It’s a race to see what Adventure Camp 2007 team gets in others where development gobbles up its tent up first at Tyler State Park. fertile farmland. Many programs offered at memories, but also lasting the Bureau of State Parks 117 state parks walk to an activity or place, but they have to impressions of how they and forest districts and four education cen- know what opportunities are available and play a role in the future ters are outlined at DCNR’s website: where they are,” DCNR Special Advisor Larry www.dcnr.state.pa.us . For details, telephone of our natural resources.” Williamson said. “KAZs are the tool to get 1-888-PA-PARKS, or email —DCNR Secretary them plugged into close-to-home parks and [email protected]. Michael DiBerardinis trails as great places for physical activity, im- proved health and family fun.” —Terry Brady, Deputy Press Secretary KAZ partners in addition to DCNR and for the Department of Conservation and PANA are the state Department of Health and Natural Resources. the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society All photos in this article are courtesy (PRPS). All counties throughout Pennsyl- of Terry Brady. vania are being encouraged to implement the program.

Did You Know? ♦ Children today spend less time playing outside ♦ Positive direct experiences in the out-of-doors

than in any previous generation. and being taken outdoors by someone close to ♦ Nature is important to children’s development the child—a parent, grandparent or other in every major way—intellectually, emotionally, guardian—are the two factors that most contrib- socially, spiritually and physically. Play in nature ute to individuals choosing to take action to benefit the environment as adults. is especially important for developing capacities for creativity, problem-solving and intellectual ♦ Children at eight years old can identify 25% more

development. Pokemon characters than wildlife species. ♦ Obesity in children has increased from about 4% ♦ Children will be smarter, better able to get along

in the 1960s, to close to 20% in 2004. with others and healthier and happier when they ♦ Contact with the natural world can significantly have regular opportunities for free and unstruc- reduce symptoms of attention-deficit disorder tured play in the out-of-doors.

in children as young as five years old. Source: The Children in Nature Network, cnaturenet.org ♦ 62% of children do not participate in any organized physical activity and 23% do not participate in any free-time physical activity. P a g e 9 PPFF is Connecting Families to Nature ennsylvania Parks and Forests Founda- with the many projects they are involved in P tion’s chapter friends groups are helping during the year from trail maintenance, to to connect children and their families to star gazing parties, to summer festivals— Mission: Green PA nature through special events, programs and there is something for everyone. Calling all youth across the other activities offered in commonwealth! Become secret agents and solve the conjunction with state Last year, Friends mystery of our natural world. parks and forests. groups organized 145 The 20-page Mission Green PA events and programs, booklet guides the user The now 20 chapters of logged 30,000 hours of PPFF offer young and old volunteer time, drew alike, the opportunity to tens of thousands of explore their state parks visitors to their events, and forests through fairs, and raised over festivals, and educational $191,000—all benefit- programs, not to mention ing state parks and taking part in a wide vari- Families arrive to build a blue bird nest box forests! ety of volunteer opportuni- with members of the ties. Friends group. The group holds an annual To learn more about bluebird festival in July. Photo: Friends of how friends group Laurel Hill. Members of the Friends activities, and to see group range in age from 12—92 and they are if there is a chapter in your area, visit our always looking for new volunteers to help website: PaParksAndForests.org through a series of activities— both at home and in our state parks and forests—designed to Lake Habitat Management foster stewardship and appre- ciation of our resources. Those hat could be better than floating in originally) or “artificial” (constructed) habi- who complete the book earn a W your boat, casting a line and hooking a tats. Since an impoundment requires manage- special certificate and pin. To nice bass? Not too much, in the opinion of ment in many forms (aquatic vegetation, boat- receive your copy of Mission many an angler. Yet, since many of the reser- ing, angling, access, water levels, etc.), habitat Green PA, send a SASE to: voirs in Pennsyl- management is a logical method to help PPFF, 105 North Front St, vania were con- achieve fishery production potential. Suite 305, Harrisburg, PA structed by clear- The PPFF has been involved with the above 17101. ing the beds of partners at four parks—Nockamixon, Prince trees and brush Gallitzin, Pymatuning and Bald Eagle, to cre- prior to impound- ate and place artificial structures that enhance ment, we in es- habitat, cover and spawning of a variety of fish What if the PA Parks sence created a species. As and Forests barren and fea- part of the Foundation had a tureless environ- project, the penny for every time ment for fish and four parks You searched the anglers alike. will be re- internet… Now it can! Enter the Lake ceiving in- Habitat Manage- terpretive GoodSearch.com is a new search ment program, a panels ex- engine that donates half its cooperative endeavor between the Pennsyl- plaining the revenue—about a penny a vania Parks and Forests Foundation, Pa Fish structures. search—to the charity of your and Boat Commission, the Wild Resource We are also Photos above and left: Constructing choice. You use it as you would Conservation Program, the Department of working to porcupine cribs. Photos: PA Fish and any search engine, and it’s Boat Commission Conservation and Natural Resources, US create maps powered by Yahoo!, so you get Army Corps of Engineers, The Pa Bass Fed- for angler use. great results. Just go to GoodSearch.com, register eration, and the Fish and Wildlife Service. Depending on the water level, you may see Pennsylvania Parks and Forests In the Lake Habitat Management program, these artificial fish habitats poking out of the Foundation as the charity of artificial habitats address the need for year- lake. They are here to create a healthier lake your choice, and search the round cover. Physical objects found in im- and improve fish populations. Please don’t internet using the poundments are either “native” (there GoodSearch.com search engine. disturb these manmade fish homes! It’s that easy! P a g e 1 0 2nd Annual Park and Forest Awards Banquet a Success! n May 6, one hundred conservation large landscape projects that connect O and business leaders and invited numerous state parks and forests, raising Award winners are shown with sponsor guests joined the Pennsylvania Park and their value and accessibility for recreation representatives and PPFF President Forests Foundation at the Country Club of and community revitalization. Marci Mowery. All photos on this page: Harrisburg to honor this year’s recipients The other awards presented included: Joe Frassetta of the Foundation’s annual awards. ♦ Forest of the Year (sponsored by Dominion) — , spanning Bradford and Tioga Coun- ties, for its role in the development of the and their diverse efforts in recreation and forests management. ♦ Park of the Year (sponsored by PPL Corporation) — , Roy Siefert, District Forester for Tioga State Butler County, for their exemplary Forest, 3rd from right, and members of his staff role in working with diverse user accepted the Forest of the Year Award. Keystone Legacy Award winner Rose Chase, groups, park improvements, commit- 2nd from left along with Marci Mowery, PPFF ment to recreation, and volunteerism. President (left), Bruce Heggenstaller, Wool- rich, award sponsor, and PPFF Board Chair, ♦ Friends Group Volunteerism Award Wendy McLean. (sponsored by Pa Parks and Recrea- The top honor, the Keystone Legacy tion Society) — Mountaineer Search Award, was presented to Rose Chase, who and Rescue , , for their in 1979, helped to champion the protection outstanding work assisting in, or man- of the Goat Hill Serpentine Barrens in aging, search and rescue efforts as well as construction and maintenance Chester County. of hiking trails. Obie Derr, Park Manager for Moraine State “Rose to this day, refuses to take full credit Park (2nd from right), accepted the Park of the for the success of the project,” said Marci Year Award. Mowery, Foundation President. “It was her energy, drive and charm that paved the way for others to rally in support of the Barrens and resulted in its ultimate protection.” The Government Award, sponsored by Mr. Joseph Ibberson, is given to a person or department at any level of government to Five of the 24-member Mountaineer Search and recognize Rescue Team were on hand to receive their their work in award. the steward- Susan Taylor, Executive Director of the Friends ship of Penn- ♦ Friends Group Improvement Award of the Delaware Canal (2nd from right), (sponsored by Lentz, Cantor & accepted the Friends Group Improvement sylvania’s Award. state park and Massey, Ltd.) — Friends of the forest system. Delaware Canal, Delaware Canal Jerry Walls, State Park , Bucks County, for their who retired in outstanding restoration and steward- 2007 after ship work to maintain and improve the thirty years of Delaware Canal and its surroundings.

service as the ♦ Friends Group Education Award Executive (sponsored by Columbia Gas of Director and Pennsylvania) — Friends of Laurel CEO of the Jerry Walls and PPFF Board Hill State Park , Somerset County, Chair, Wendy McLean. President of the Friends of Laurel Hill (4th from Lycoming for their outstanding stewardship and right) and Sue Bittner, Park Volunteer Coordi- Planning Commission, was given this educational efforts at Laurel Hill State nator (2nd from right) accepted the Friends Group Education Award. year’s award for his work to implement Park. P a g e 1 1 Two—Continued Hours from Page 10Well Spent P a g e 1 1 ormally by the end of summer, the white pine. Well over 150 feet above us, They prefer swift, clean water, and their N trees in the forests of North Central the bird still looked massive, fierce, and presence indicates good water quality. Pennsylvania are in stiff competition for indescribably wild; a fitting symbol of a drink of water. Raindrops falling from our nation. Late summer is hellbender breeding sea- hit-or-miss thunderstorms have little son, and that’s the time of year when its chance of passing through the gauntlet of Pine Creek spreads out wide and shallow possible to see them during daylight hours thirsty roots and puckered soil. Conse- between the mouths of Bonnell and Wolf as they venture out to do what hellbenders quently, the watersheds of the Susque- Runs, and the keel of the canoe began to might do when they make little hell- hanna are able crease the algae benders (very little is known about their to contribute on the flat rocks reproductive habits). of the streambed. very little to Nearing the mouth of Ross Run we pad- the passions Ten feet in front dled toward the left shore and skidded our of paddlers. of the boat, I boats onto the gravel bar, thus ending our

But sometimes noticed an odd brief journey. We had been on the water seasons shift looking elongated for just under two hours. grayish blob from the norm, For me, the float on the creek was infi- and an unusual squeezed between some creek nitely better than any amusement park log spree of down- flume ride, and we didn’t need tickets. pours can keep stones. The blob was only notice- Maybe the kids felt the same way or our soils satu- maybe not, but I know that they had been rated, trees able because it didn’t match the exposed to something real, something content, and worth remembering, and a resource worth streams swol- surrounding rocks, looking a saving. It was certainly two hours well len through spent. much of the lot like a piece of Canoeing Adventures on Pine Creek. Photo: Hal Korber, waterlogged liver. summer. Pennsylvania Game Commission. —Jim Hyland, Forest On Labor Day weekend a few seasons Passing directly Program Specialist back, Pine Creek at Slate Run, Lycoming over it, a horseshoe shaped head, beady County, held just enough water to allow a eyes, and stubby feet became apparent. It was a hellbender, one of the world’s larg- “When I told a fisherman rare August passage of our five-person friend that I had seen a flotilla: my 10-year-old son and friend in est salamanders! hellbender, he responded, solo kayaks, my wife and I in a canoe, I barked to the kids to bring the boats “Ya know, if they bite you, and my nine-year-old daughter bobbing around and paddle hard against the cur- they won’t let go until the full happily along in an old truck inner tube rent…I wanted them to be able to enjoy moon!” He was joking, but tethered to the canoe’s stern. Our destina- this creature rarely seen by humans. The there are many myths sur- tion was the mouth of Ross Run--a hellbender was about 20 inches long rounding these neat creatures.” leisurely 3-mile float. from slimy head to tail--a beautiful speci-

The water was refreshingly cool and men. As expected, their first responses clear. Transparent beneath the boats, it ranged from “oh yuk!” to “cool!”, perfectly reflected the mountain scenery and after looking over the creature unfolding ahead. The breeze smelled of for a few seconds, they began to bugs and muck, wildflowers and pine. devise a plan to capture it. I told We moved along silently, the children too them that it was probably not a absorbed to think about talking. good idea to disturb his routine or and risk injuring his sensitive skin. Above and below the boats, the creek was Plus, I had no experience in the alive. I struggled to identify fish before hellbender department. calling and pointing them out to the kids. “There’s a smallmouth bass…and an- Hellbenders, also known as water other!” “There’s a channel catfish!” devils, water dogs, mud dogs, and Groups of carp passed by in formation mud devils, might be likened to Eastern Hellbender. Photo: PA Fish Commission like tiny submarines, and trout shot out vampires, as they hate light and are con- from under shadowy ledges and disap- sidered by many people to be some kind peared upstream with a flick and a flash. of monster. Predominantly nocturnal, hellbenders squirt out from beneath a As we passed the mouth of Riffle Run, a rock at night to feast on crayfish. Bald Eagle watched us from a prominent PENN’S STEWARDS NON PROFIT ORG Newsletter of the Pennsylvania U.S. POSTAGE Parks and Forests Foundation PAID 105 N. Front Street, Suite 305 Harrisburg, PA 17101 HARRISBURG, PA (717) 236-7644 www.PaParksAndForests.org PERMIT #560

The Prowl the Sproul Hiking weekend is planned for July 18-20! To register please contact: Becky Schreiber, Program Administrator, Keystone Trails Association, (717) 238-7017, [email protected] , www.kta-hike.org

State Park Collector Pin Series Continues

Available now —#6 in the Limited Edition Where to Purchase Your Tag

Series—Black Moshannon Sate Park, Centre County Tags are for sale at most state parks and through THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT PPFF. The PA Wilds tags PA Parks & Forests Foundation PA Department of Conservation are also available at Forest & Natural Resources Districts located in the PA Tag sponsor: Wilds. For more informa-

Black Moshannon State Park, tion, visit: Centre County Original artwork by Sarah Pollock PaParksAndForests .org www.PaParksAndForests.org What’s a tag? Tags are collector pins Pa State Parks #6 in a Limited Edition Series or call the PPFF office at featuring the artwork of Pennsylvania (717) 236-7644. artists. The original artwork is do- nated to PPFF, a high resolution

scan is made which allows the image Contributions to the tag to be reduced down to the pin’s 1 Also To be released in 2008 program ($5 donation 1/2” x 1 1/2” size. Regional busi- #7 in the Limited Edition Tag Series nesses sponsor each separate tag and suggested) go to support only a limited edition is produced for Sponsorship opportunity available programs and improve- each, making them collector items. Contact PPFF for information ments in state parks and The pins can go on hats, jackets or backpacks. You will be showing your Keystone State Park, forests making Pennsyl- support for Pennsylvania’s natural Westmoreland County vania a better place to live, resources when you purchase and work and recreate! wear a tag! Original artwork by Jennifer Boget