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Outdoors

Some tips for sharing the river when out and about on a boat

There’s nothing quite like drifting down the Susquehanna River with the sun on your face and the water stretching out ahead. You’re not alone in loving it—Pennsylvania’s waterways are home to more than 380,000 registered boats. With so many people sharing the same waters, every trip brings chances for new adventures—and new encounters. This season’s lower waters especially will increase the chances of interactions, as everyone shares the same deeper channels. Practicing good boating etiquette helps keep these experiences safe, friendly, and fun for everyone, whether ...

The public is invited to a meeting of the Trout Unlimited Susquehanna Chapter featuring Brian Cooper, project manager for Trout Unlimited’s PA AMD Program, as well as Tom Clark, project manager for the AMD Program at Kleinfelder Engineering in State College. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m. at the Covenant Central Presbyterian Church at 807 W. Fourth Street in Williamsport. Parking and entrance to the church is at the rear of the building with access off of Campbell Street. AMD is one of the two leading causes of stream impairment in Pennsylvania with more ...

How does low water impact a fishery? A closer look

Anyone who has visited the West Branch in recent weeks has seen something they have probably never seen before: historically low water levels. Entire sections of shoreline exposed, the island nearly doubled in size, and there would be boat ramps nowhere near the water’s edge. Yes, the river experiences low periods almost every summer, but this is something different. This period of low water has been more extended and more dramatic than usual. It has prompted some people to ask “what about the fish?” When it comes to fish, normal fluctuations in water levels are of no genuine ...

Fall bird migration is now at its peak in PA

For a little adventure tonight, consider walking outside, greeting the recent full moon (howl for a bit?), and then looking up to wonder what birds might be flying overhead as fall migration — and monarch butterfly migration also — continues in earnest. Bird migration is yet another ...

Reflections in Nature: So what’s the difference between algae and scum?

Have you noticed the many ponds and backwater areas that are covered with green scum? The fishermen are upset because this scum fouls up their fishing lines and boat motors. Those who have fish tanks, in their homes or offices, also dislike the scum because it collects on the sides of their tanks. Our word scum comes from the German word schaum, meaning foam. “You’re nothing but scum” and “You’re the scum of the Earth” are both unkind statements made to someone that is not liked; therefore, we can conclude that scum is not held in high regard by us humans. Algae and scum ...

Outdoors community calendar for week of Sept. 30

AUTUMN LEAVES WHERE: Little Pine State Park WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 4 at 11 a.m. NOTES: Come to Little Pine State Park and enjoy looking at some of the different trees and autumn leaves, and learn what magic goes on for the leaves to change color. This program is geared towards families with children.A ll children must be accompanied by an adult to participate. The program may be modofied or canceled in the event of severe weather or new state or community guidelines. Those interested should meet at Pavilion No. 4 in the lower picnic area of Little Pine State Park. CCC OF LITTLE ...