On January 28, the PA Parks and Forests Foundations invited the public to a February 18 virtual meeting to explore the idea of a Friends Group at Locust Lake and Tuscarora State Parks starting at 6:00 p.m.

Join Park Manager Sulzer and PPFF President Marci Mowery for an informal discussion on needs at the parks, what a friends group is, and how to get involved.

Located a few miles apart in Schuylkill County, both parks offer a wide range of

recreational activities for everyone to enjoy. Locust Lake State Park hosts camping, varying difficulties in hiking trails, biking trails, and fishing. Tuscarora State Park is home to a scenic picnic area, several camping cottages, fishing, swimming, and boating.

A friends group consists of motivated people and organizations in the community that understand the value and benefits of a state park or forest and share a common goal with DCNR in making that park or forest the best in the Commonwealth.

The goals of a friends group are unique, crafted to fit the needs of the park or forest and the talent and interests of the friends group. At the meeting, we will explore the needs of Locust Lake and Tuscarora state parks, discuss the ideas of the potential friend’s group members, and decide on the next steps.

“The role of volunteers in our state parks and forests is an important one,” said Marci Mowery, President of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation. “working along side park staff, they can help to make improvements, host events, raise funds, and share knowledge.”

"I am excited to gauge the interest in volunteers from around our community to establish a friends group.” Said Nicholas Sulzer, Park Manager. I think Tuscarora and Locust Lake would both benefit greatly from the extra bit of care a friends group can help provide."

Pre-registration is required. Please email Pmetzger@paparksandforests.org to attend the meeting on February 18 at 6:00 p.m.

PPFF supports 48 friends groups across the Commonwealth.  Click Here to learn more about friends groups.

For more information on programs, initiatives, special events and how you can get involved, visit the PA Parks & Forests Foundation website.  Click Here to sign up for regular updates from the Foundation,  Like them on Facebook or Follow them on Twitter or tune in to their YouTube Channel.  Click Here to become a member of the Foundation.

The Foundation and their 46 chapters mobilize 65,000 volunteers annually to steward YOUR state parks and forests.

(Photo: Buchanan State Forest Friends Group.)

Related Articles:

-- Dramatic Increase In Visitors Caused Strains On Already Understaffed, Underfunded State Parks, Forests And Facilities At DCNR

-- New Poll: 86% Say Parks, Trails, Outdoors Are Essential To Their Physical, Mental Health During Pandemic; State Parks Saw 26.6% Increase In Visitors

[Posted: January 28, 2021]

2/1/2021