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Outdoors

DCNR opens $500,000 grant program to protect at-risk wildlife, native plants

HARRISBURG — Applications are now open for the 2026 Wild Resource Conservation Program (WRCP), which offers grants to support research and conservation projects that protect Pennsylvania’s native wildlife, plants, and ecosystems. The program, which is overseen by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, will invest more than $500,000 in projects across the Commonwealth. The WRCP provides critical support for conserving non-game animals, native plants and fungi, and invertebrates such as insects — species often left out of traditional conservation programs but vital ...

Outdoors community calendar for week of May 12

AUDUBON EVENT: SKYLINE DRIVE BIRD WALK WHERE: Parking area/rest stop off Route 15 South, three miles from Beiter’s Furniture in South Williamsport WHEN: Saturday, May 16 at 8 a.m. NOTES: Skyline Drive is closed to vehicular traffic, but the paved road is walkable, gently ascending the slope of Bald Eagle Mountain. We expect to see and hear resident birds of a typical mixed Pennsylvania forest, including spring warblers. Towards the mountain top, tree species change, and the vistas of the West Branch Valley are a treat. All are welcome to join. SPRING AMBIENCE WALK WHERE: ...

Reflections in Nature: Lilacs are among the most fragrant of northern shrub species

The four seasons that we experience here in Pennsylvania are a special treat. Being a game warden for 34 years, I had many occasions to spend time in Penn’s Woods during all four seasons. Although in the woods, after a fresh snowfall, I would find myself in a winter wonderland, my favorite time was spent in the spring woods at daybreak. Spring turkey season ranked high as being my favorite hunting season. Turkey hunters need to be in the spring woods before daybreak. This allows hunters to watch the sun come up and hear the woods come alive as the birds begin their singing, making ...

Governor’s advisory council seeks PGC board candidates

HARRISBURG — The Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation is seeking qualified candidates interested in serving on the Pennsylvania Game Commission Board as commissioners in the following regions: • District 8: Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia • District 9: Carbon, Berks, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton and Schuylkill Title 34 (Game) of the Pennsylvania Code provides that commissioners are appointed for four-year terms with the opportunity to be reappointed for two additional four-year terms and can serve for six months after their ...

Outdoors community calendar for week of May 5

FOREST THERAPY WALK WHERE: Rider Park in Trout Run WHEN: Tuesday, May 5 from 10 a.m. to noon NOTES: This walk is designed specifically for those experiencing blindless or any visual impairments. We will enjoy a gentle, guided walk to enjoy the beauty of a spring wander through a wooded trail at Rider Park close to the parking area. We will end our time together with tea foraged from one of the trees or shrubs we encounter along the way. Human guides will be available and an audio description will be sent to all participants upon registration. Those interested can register at ...