Hike the Highlands

Mild Winter Brings Early Spring Migrants

2012-02-09T11:32:00.000-05:00

Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area is a premier destination in the PA Highlands to observe large flocks of snow geese, tundra swans and small diving ducks such as bufflehead and golden eye. The PA Game Commission reports that as of February 7 there are over 10,000 snow geese and 2,000 tundra swans gathered at Middle Creek.

The spring migration of waterfowl typically begins at the end of winter (late February-early March) depending on the availability of open water and exposed corn fields. This year the onset of spring migration has already begun due to the lack of ice on rivers and lakes, and the lack of snow cover.

Middle Creek WMA is located in both Lancaster and Lebanon Counties (about 1 mile south of Kleinfeltersville) and features an interactive Visitors Center, nine miles of hiking trails and observation blinds, boating and a self-guided auto tour.

While its thrilling to see several thousand snow geese in one location, biologists are concerned about the population explosion witnessed over the past decade, and the potential impacts the burgeoning numbers of geese may be creating in their arctic nesting grounds.

Photo courtesy of the US Fish & Wildlife Service.

Sojourns of Spring and Summer 2012

2012-02-02T15:58:00.000-05:00

The famous weather predicting rodent Punxsutawny Phil says we'll have six more weeks of winter, this despite the absolutely spring-like weather. There is still plenty of time to feel the bite of the winter wind and maybe even a blizzard or two. It's also time to begin planning summer river trips.

There are several PA River Sojourns planned for May and June 2012. Some of the sojourns will take paddlers through iconic landscapes of the Highlands Region. A few examples include the Swatara Creek Sojourn scheduled for May 5-6; Schuylkill River Sojourn scheduled for June 2-8; Delaware River Sojourn set for June 24-30; and the Lehigh River Sojourn scheduled for June 22-25.

River Sojourns can be a few days or last an entire week and typically include catered meals, campgrounds, boat shuttles, day and evening programs, and lots of camaraderie with paddlers of all skill levels and boat types. All of the sojourns strive to highlight the natural, cultural, and scenic features found along each stream and provide a safe and family-friendly river experience.

For a complete list of PA Sojourns check with the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers - they'll soon be publishing a list of events from across the state.

200-Foot Powerline Threatens the Delaware Water Gap Viewshed

2012-01-23T15:30:00.000-05:00

Have you everhiked the Appalachian Trail from AMC's Mohican Outdoor Center to Sunfish Pondand stopped to take in the amazing view from Raccoon Ridge? If so, thenyou know what is at stake in the battle over the Susquehanna-RoselandTransmission Line, a 200-foot tall, 500-volt power line proposed to cut acrossthe Appalachian Trail, marring the iconic viewshed.

In December, the National Park Servicepublished a Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the project, which notedthat the least harmful option would be to not build the line through thepark. They are accepting comments on the proposal until January31st. Thousands of conservationists are preparing to speak up against theproposed power line, including the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, The DelawareRiverkeeper Network, the Sierra Club, AMC, and many others.

Please join us by submitting comments and then attending a public hearing nearyou. The future of the Delaware Water Gap depends on your involvement.

Hearings will be held on:

Tuesday, January 24, 2012 (snow date 1/31if required)
Fernwood Hotel and Resort
U.S. 209 Bushkill, PA 18324

Wednesday, January 25, 2012 (snow date 2/1 if required)
Stroudsmoor Country Inn - Ridgecrest
RD#4 Stroudsmoor Road Stroudsburg, PA 18360

Thursday, January 26, 2012 (snow date 2/2 if required)
Farmstead Golf and Country Club
88 Lawrence Road
Lafayette, NJ 07848

Federal Highlands Funds Protect the Oley Hills

2012-01-12T16:37:00.003-05:00

The Oley Hills
Pennsylvania Highlands

On January 12th, Congressman Jim Gerlach, AMC and the Highlands Coalition, joined The BerksConservancy and other partners to celebrate the preservation of 582 acres in the OleyHills region east of Reading, made possible with $492,750 in federal Highlands Conservation Act funding, provided through the Land and WaterConservation Fund. The addition brings the total to 2,800acres that have been be permanently protected from development in this area ofthe Pennsylvania Highlands, protecting critical wildlife habitat and downstreamdrinking water supplies. The land will be protected in perpetuity thanksto a conservation easement with the cooperation of eight landowners.


Congressman Gerlach thanks partners

Congressman JimGerlach (PA-6th District), a prime sponsor of the Highlands Conservation Actand long-time supporter of conservation programs, attended the event and said,"It is extremely gratifying to see the legislation passed in 2004being used so effectively to protect some of the best sources of drinking waterin the Commonwealth and ensure that our children and grandchildren continue tohave opportunities for hiking, fishing and enjoying other outdoor recreationactivities."

CongressmanGerlach is also a champion of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which usesrevenues generated from offshore oil and gas drilling leases, rather thantaxpayer dollars, to acquire important lands for the public. AMC has beenactively working with legislators from the 4-State Highlands Region to securefunding through the Land and Water Conservation Fund for the HighlandsConservation Act and other programs. The Oley Hills project is the firstHighlands Conservation Act project in Pennsylvania that has been fullycompleted since the program's inception in 2004, although three other projectsare in progress, which will match over $2 million in federal funds with stateand private sources to protect an additional 1,500 acres.

Kim Murphy, Berks Conservancy
President, raises a toast

The Oley Hillsrepresent a critical hub of the Pennsylvania Highlands, and contain sixstate-recognized Exceptional Value streams, numerous historical structures,forests, and a diversity of wildlife that includes bog turtles and trout. Several groups worked towards this accomplishment as the Oley HillsPartnership, a group led by the Berks Conservancy. The successful conservationof 582 acres in the Oley Hills is a truly a momentous achievement.

Learn more aboutthe event and the Pennsylvania Highlands here:

Photos Courtesyof Berks Conservancy, Mark Zakutansky and Cathy Frankenberg

Christmas Bird Count at the Archibald Johnston Conservation Area

2011-12-30T12:54:00.000-05:00

On the morning of New Year's Eve, Lehigh Valley birders participated in a 112-year old holiday tradition - the Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count. Once every winter, volunteers around the United States wake at dawn to count and identify wild birds. The count is the longest-running wildlife census, and participation is open to experienced birders and beginners alike.

Saturday's count took place at the Archibald Johnston Conservation Area, where 35 species were identified by local naturalist Corey Husic, including wild turkeys, red-tailed hawks, American robins, sparrows, chickadees, red-bellied woodpeckers, a belted kingfisher, and over 300 snow geese.

Located in Bethlehem Township at the northern edge of the Pennsylvania Highlands, The Archibald Johnston Conservation Area is an ecological and historical treasure, and a perfect spot for winter birdwatching. Old orchards and grassy fields are bordered with forested gullies that sweep down to the sparkling Monocacy Creek. At the eastern end of the property is the former home of Archibald Johnston, the first mayor of the city of Bethlehem. Though its current state is somewhat faded, architectural details like the delicately carved shutters hint at the 17-room Georgian Colonial mansion's former majesty.

The Archibald Johnston Estate is located at 3817 Christian Springs Road, Bethlehem, PA 18017. The driveway is on the left, and the winding drive will take you back to the park.

THE HIGHLANDS: New book an indispensible source for Highlands advocates

2011-12-20T16:02:00.000-05:00

"The Highlands: Critical Resources, Treasured Landscapes" (Rutgers University Press) is a must-read new book for anyone interested in the Mid-Atlantic Highlands. Edited by Richard G. Lathrop, who directs Rutgers University's Center for Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis, the book features fifteen chapters, each written by different experts on topics such as geology, soils, watersheds, forest ecology and cultural history.

The Highlands makes a compelling case for protecting the region from encroaching development -- simply by presenting a science-based factual account of why these rugged foothills of the Appalachian Mountains are so unique and vital, not only to the people who live and recreate there but to the millions of people who live downstream from the Highlands and are dependent on the region for drinking water. The book provides a clear overview of how the boundaries of the Highlands have been defined, from both political and geographic perspectives, and readers are treated to a historical overview of parks and recreation in the Highlands region of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Connecticut.

Photo by T.L. Gettings

Vote Now for 2012 River of the Year

2011-12-14T15:46:00.002-05:00

As December comes to a close, the inevitable year-end listshit newsstands, including rankings of inventors, celebrities, andpoliticians. But at Appalachian MountainClub and the Highlands Coalition, we’re more excited for the winner of the Department of Conservation andNatural Resources’ River of the Year award. The award serves to highlight the economic, ecological, and recreationalvalue of rivers, as well as the outstanding conservation work being done byhundreds of volunteer-led watershed groups around the state.

With over 86,000 miles of rivers and streamsin Pennsylvania, including many spectacular waterways right here in theHighlands, there’s always been plenty of competition. Past winners have included the Lackawaxen,the Youghiogheny, and, last year, the Delaware River. There are four rivers nominated for thehonor in 2012, including the Upper Juniata River, the Middle Monongahela River,the Kiskiminetas River, and the Stonycreek River. The chosen river will be celebrated with ayear of speaking events, paddling trips, photography contests, and riverclean-ups. To learn more about thenominated rivers, and to cast your vote, visit DCNR’s voting page here.

Photo by Wilma Frey

Creating and Maintaining a Healthy Watershed: Conewago Creek (video)

2011-12-09T09:32:00.001-05:00

Located in the heart of the PA Highlands, about 15 miles south of Harrisburg, the Conewago Creek is a 52 square mile tributary watershed to the Susquehanna River. The Conewago Recreation Trail and lower Conewago Creek are being considered for inclusion in the PA Highlands Trail Network.

The Tri-county Conewago Creek Association was formed in 2002 by residents concerned about the continuing decline of the Conewago and its tributaries, which have been impacted by stormwater runoff and nonpoint source pollution. Over the past several years the Association has engaged in stream monitoring and riparian buffer restoration projects.

Watershed restoration and education efforts were more recently expanded with the creation of the Conewago Creek Initiative, which brings additional participation by state and federal partners led by Penn State Cooperative Extension.

The Conewago Creek Initiative produced this outstanding video that highlights local perspectives on the importance of creating and maintaining a healthy watershed for the community and the Susquehanna River Basin.

New York Highlands Celebrates North Hollow Project

2011-12-06T19:56:00.001-05:00

The Appalachian MountainClub joined Highlands Coalition partners on December 6^th tocelebrate the recent conservation of a 261-acre property in the NYHighlands. The acquisition wasmade possible with $653,500 in federal Highlands Conservation Act funds,provided through the Land and Water Conservation Fund. The Blumberg family generously donatedland value as a match for the public funds, working closely with the Trust for Public Land and the New York Department of Environmental Conservation.

NYDEC Commissioner Joe Martens

The Highlands ConservationAct is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and provides up to$10 million a year for the states of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, andConnecticut to protect the highest valued land and water resources in theRegion. The Highlands Coalition is an alliance of over 180 conservationorganizations including the Appalachian Mountain Club, working to advanceconservation in the 3.5 million-acre Highlands region and to secure funding forthe Highlands Conservation Act.

The 261-acre Putnam Countyproperty, known as North Hollow, is located within the Great Swamp watershedand will expand the Cranberry Mountain Wildlife Management Area by more than athird. More public lands and added connectivity for trails will only furthercontribute to the area’s economy, where recreational activities such as hiking,cross-country skiing, hunting, fishing and trapping are popular. North Hollowfeatures steep upland forests protecting nearby Haviland Hollow Brook, a pristinetrout stream. The brook watershed connects with the Great Swamp, Croton River,and reservoirs in the New York Highlands that provide drinking water to NewYork City.

Canoeing in the Great Swamp, NY

Senators Schumer andGillibrand, and Congresswoman Nan Hayworth provided statements of support forthe North Hollow project, and have been strong supporters of the HighlandsConservation Act in Congress. Read their statements in the press release. They are also champions of the Land and WaterConservation Fund, which uses revenues generated from offshore oil and gasdrilling leases, rather than taxpayer dollars, to acquire important lands forthe public. AMC has been actively working with legislators from the 4-State Highlands Region to secure funding through the Land and Water Conservation Fund for the Highlands Conservation Act and other programs. The North Hollow closing represents a momentous achievement, as only 12 projects have been slated for funding funding since the programs' inception in 2004.

Learn more aboutthe event and the New York Highlands here:

DRBC Meeting Canceled - DE Votes "No" on Fracking Regs

2011-11-18T13:29:00.001-05:00

Last night, Governor Jack Markell of Delaware announced thathe will vote against the regulations on hydraulic fracturing proposed by theDelaware River Basin Commission, the approval of which would open the gates forthe controversial practice of hydraulic fracturing in the Delaware River Basin. The news was met with cheers from outdoorrecreationists and conservationists across the four-state region, and resultedin the cancelation of the DRBC’s November 21^st meeting at which theagency would have voted on the proposed rules. Delaware joins New York in its opposition to the regulations.

AMC has over 100,000 members, supporters, and advocates who residelargely in the Northeast, for whom the protection of theDelaware River is of great importance. Thischerished natural resource provides drinking water for over 15 million people, andits outstanding recreational opportunities draw more annual visitors thaneither Yellowstone or Yosemite National Park. Development of natural gas poses numerous risks to the region, includingforest fragmentation and increases in air and water pollution. Further research is needed to understand the fullextent of those risks. Markell’s statementthat “in this case, it is more important to get it right, than to be fast” echoesthe tens of thousands of comments urging the DRBC to complete a federally-mandatedEnvironmental Impact Study before considering the approval of fracking in theriver basin.

AMC is working to protect our wilderness from the risksassociated with natural gas development and to preserve it for futuregenerations to come. To learn more aboutour policy on natural gas, please visit our new natural gas website here.

Conservation Ballot Measures Preserve Highlands Wilderness

2011-11-11T14:33:00.003-05:00

A recent poll by the LWCF Coalition found that despite the nation’s recent economic woes, an overwhelming 88% of Americans support conservation funding initiatives. They are right to favor these measures- open space funding adds billions of dollars to the economy through revenue created by outdoor recreation, in addition to ensuring the future generation’s ability to enjoy our forests, streams, and fields.

Funding for conservation can come from many sources, including private land trusts, state programs like Growing Greener, and federal programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund, the Forest Legacy Program, and the Highlands Conservation Act. It can also come from county and local ballot measures. Conservation funding ballot measures are very popular in the four-state Highland Region. Pennsylvanians in particular favor conservation funding measures at the polls, passing 81% of conservation funding proposals.

On Tuesday, Lower Saucon Township in Northampton County celebrated the approval of one such proposal in the polls by 57%, voting to extend the Earned Income Tax Open Space Fund originally created in 2006. The revenue generated will go towards conserving open space, as well as historical and recreational resources. This is fantastic news for outdoor enthusiasts, as Lower Saucon Township is home to portions of the Saucon Rail Trail, the Saucon Creek, and makes up some of the easternmost sections of the Pennsylvania Highlands.

To learn more about other conservation funding efforts here and across the nation, as well as view data on polling and trends, visit Highlands Coalition member organization the Trust for Public Land.

Take Your Family Camping - Tents and Equiptment for free through AMC

2011-11-07T12:08:00.004-05:00

Now is the perfect time to squeeze in one last camping adventure with your family before cold weather begins. If you have been thinking about taking your family camping, but weren’t sure about investing in a tent and sleeping bags, here’s your chance! Two sets of family camping equipment are now available to borrow for free from AMC’s Mohican Outdoor Center, including a four-person Coleman Northstar tent, four sleeping bags, and four air mattresses with pumps. This is a great set of equipment for any family going camping for the first time, and the staff at Mohican can even help you to assemble everything. The package also includes a half-day canoe or kayak rental.

To take advantage of this opportunity, call AMC’s reservation line at 603-466-2727. Mohican’s normal camping rates apply, with a two-night minimum. Special thanks to Coleman Company, Inc. for donating the equipment.

November 16th- Learn How GIS Helps Conservation in the Highlands

2011-11-03T16:09:00.027-04:00

Good planning makes recreation opportunities and conservation initiatives in the Pennsylvania Highlands region possible. That planning is often based on the results of one or more studies using a Geographic Information System, or GIS, a software system that allows a trained user to link topographical information to other data in order to provide a better context on social and environmental issues. Appalachian Mountain Club employs GIS-trained staff who take advantage of this technology to help us prioritize areas for conservation efforts, such as ecologically diverse areas under development pressure. The results of this research are available to the public here, and are a great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about conserving the unique Highlands region.

Are you interested in learning more about how GIS mapping can help conservation efforts in the Highlands? On November 16^th, Harrisburg Area Community College is hosting its annual GIS Day, a free event for students, professionals, and other interested parties to check out the latest developments in GIS technology and organizations including AMC to display their most recent projects. The morning is open to high school students to engage in some hands-on GIS training. The afternoon’s events are open to the public, and no registration is required. To learn more, check out the website.

Nov. 6 Hay Creek Hike

2011-11-03T12:56:00.000-04:00

The Hay Creek watershed is part of the area known as the "Hopewell Big Woods" which is the largest unbroken forested area in southeastern PA. It is also an iconic PA Highlands landscape featuring rugged terrain and pristine streams that flow down to the Schuylkill River.
On Sunday, November 6, AMC hike leader and Susan Charkes (50 Best Day Hikes Near Philadelphia) will lead a hike in the Birdsboro Waters portion of the Hay Creek watershed. The hike will feature mature hardwood forests around two pretty reservoirs and the well-known Birdsboro Quarry rock climbing wall. Along the way hikers will learn about the fascinating industrial history that shaped the area, the geology that underlies it and the plants that grow there-- including some rare species. For more details visit AMC's website. Meeting time is 10AM. Meeting place details provided to registrants only. Register by contacting Susan at: nobadhikes@gmail.com

Nov. 5-6 Whitewater Release in the PA Highlands

2011-10-28T10:04:00.004-04:00

Paddlers throughout the Mid-Atlantic and New England Regions will be gathering along the Tohickon Creek at Ralph Stover State Park on November 5-6 to enjoy the premier whitewater paddling destination in the Pennsylvania Highlands. For one weekend each spring and fall the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources manages controlled releases of 750 cfs from Lake Nockamixon into the Tohickon Creek. Anywhere from 300 to a 1,000 paddlers come out to paddle one or both days, with many participants representing various paddling and outdoor clubs including AMC's Delaware Valley Chapter, which is running the creek both days. The whitewater section of Tohickon Creek is only 3.8 miles in length but there are at least 6 challenging rapids in that stretch as well as superb scenery with towering, fern-studded shale cliffs and mixed hemlock-hardwood forest.

For those who would like a milder paddling experience but still take advantage of the lake release, there is a bucolic 7-mile stretch between the Lake Nockamixon dam and Ralph Stover State Park. Suitable for novice paddlers this section of the creek flows through iconic Bucks County landscapes of rolling hills, mills, stone farmhouses and smaller versions of fern-studded shale cliffs. Tohickon Creek is bounded on both sides by state and county parkland with excellent opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, birding and camping.

Tohickon Facts of Note:

Tohickon Creek watershed is one the Pennsylvania Highlands designated "Critical Treasures."
The late, famed author and Bucks County native James Michener donated the land that comprises Ralph Stover State Park
The Lower Tohickon Creek is within the area designated as the Lower Delaware National Wild and River.

Susquehanna River focus of Federal partnership

2011-10-27T15:58:00.002-04:00

Featuringthe Susquehanna River, the largest river system in the PennsylvaniaHighlands, the Department of Interior has just released projects that theFederal Government will focus on in the coming months and years. See a map of theprojects and learn more in the pressrelease. As part of the America’sGreat Outdoors Initiative, the project highlighted on the LowerSusquehanna compliments the PA DCNR’s Conservation Landscape Initiativeprogram to build partnerships, which advance common conservation and recreationgoals. Enhancing the connections betweenthe Nationally designed SusquehannaRiver Water Trail, land-based trails in Lancaster and York counties,and the river communities along the greenway, will bring economic development, communitysustainability and conservation stewardship. The Susquehanna River was listed as the #1 most endangeredriver in 2011 because of the threats posed by natural gasdevelopment in its headwaters. Additionally the River contributes about half of the freshwater thatenters the Chesapeake Bay, which is facing seriousecological challenges from sediment and nutrients in the water. AMC is excited that the Susquehanna River,connecting from the PA Highlands near Harrisburg, south to the Maryland borderwill be the focus the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative moving forward andlooks forward to working with all stakeholders on enhancing conservation andrecreation in the region.

Susquehanna River - photo courtesy of DCNR

Purchase of Land at Kings Gap is Cause for Celebration

2011-10-21T15:29:00.011-04:00

Those who know and love Kings Gap Environmental Center have good cause for celebration - DCNR Secretary Richard J. Allan has just announced the acquisition of 1,077 acres of forest, bringing the total acreage to 2,500, including three miles of Irish Gap Hollow Run. News of the acquisition has sparked plans to establish a twenty-mile backpacking trail, which will allow park staff to lead two-day, overnight hikes. The addition is also great news for conservationists, as the park sits at the center of the South Mountain Conservation Landscape Initiative, a regional land conservation and community revitalization effort.

Of course, if you aren’t familiar with the park already, now is the time to spend a day getting acquainted with its hills of chestnut oak. Nestled in Cumberland County in the southern Pennsylvania Highlands, Kings Gap offers unique environmental education programs for adults and children, as well as sixteen miles of backpacking trails.

You are invited to join other outdoor enthusiasts at a celebration of the purchase on Sunday, October 23^rd, at 1:30 pm, at the park’s historic Cameron Mansion. You may also enjoy the park year-round from eight in the morning until sunset. For more about the park, visit the DCNR’s website here.

Photo by Wilma Frey

“Highlands Mobile” Launches - Free, Mobile Outdoor Activity Guide to the PA Highlands

2011-10-17T14:16:00.011-04:00


Enjoying the Stuble Trail featured on Highlands Mobile

AMC celebrated the launch of “Highlands Mobile” on Saturday along the East Branch of the Brandywine River. "Highlands mobile" brings the AMC's popular Hike the Highlands cards into the hands of mobile users with a free, interactive outdoor recreation guide to the PA Highlands designed for mobile devices complete with trail maps, directions to parking areas, and photos. State Senator Andy Dinnaman, local recreational enthusiasts and representatives from outdoor retailers joined AMC’s Mid-Atlantic Policy Director, Mark Zakutansky and Policy Associate Cathy Frankenberg to highlight the connection between recreation and conservation throughout the PA Highlands and to share AMC’s latest interactive and free outdoor activity guide, designed for on-the-go mobile use.

Highlands Mobile currently features 22 parks and trails in the Pennsylvania Highlands and is available at http://highlandsmobile.outdoors.org/ Highlands Mobile has optimal functionality on a touch screen Smartphone or Tablet computer. Desktop users can also access the guide for information about parks and trails in the region. For more information about the event and this new outdoor activity guide, read AMC's press release on our newsroom.

PA State Senator Andy Dinnaman, "Henry", and AMC's Mark Zakutansky

In addition to Highlands Mobile, AMC has unveiled its new “Pennsylvania Highlands Water and You Learning Center,” an animated, family-friendly online water resource guide to the region. Through interesting facts, helpful information, and photos, the learning center highlights the region’s water sources, everyday uses for water, and ways to help protect drinking water and habitat for fish and other wildlife. Visit the Water and You Learning Center by clicking “Interactive” above or clicking “Learn More About Water in the PA Highlands” on the right navigation bar of this page.

The Brandywine-Struble Greenway is an ever developing interconnected system of formal trails, informal paths, parks, river access points, and riparian buffers and will link the Brandywine River with many Chester and Delaware county communities along its path. AMC chose the East Branch of the Brandywine River as its 2011 "Adopt-a-Water Trail" to work on further enhancing recreational access and awareness for paddlers.

AMC's Mark Zakutansky and Cathy Frankenberg Joined With Community Members to Launch Highlands Mobile

In the Pennsylvania Highlands and throughout the state, waterways and the green spaces along waterways can provide some of the most beautiful and locally-accessible outdoor recreation opportunities through the development of walking trails and river access locations. AMC supports these efforts by working to create the Pennsylvania Highlands Trail Network, which will connect existing natural areas and trails throughout the two-million acre Pennsylvania Highlands landscape. AMC has also published the “Pennsylvania Highlands Regional Recreation Map and Guide.”

A special thanks to Richard Whiteford who has contributed to advancing conservation and recreation efforts along the greenway by pulling together partners, elected officials, and local residents, highlighting the multitude of locally accessible outdoor recreational opportunities and building a community of conservation leaders with a common goal. All photos are courtesy of Richard Whiteford.

Calling all Photographers!

2011-10-17T13:41:00.008-04:00

Do you have an eye for photography? If so, then the Guardians of the Brandywine want you for their photography contest, My Creek: The Beauty of the Brandywine, funded by Victory Brewing Company. You could win up to $300 - but you didn't really need an excuse to spend a day enjoying nature's most artistic season, did you?

The Brandywine River's East and West Branches flow from the PA Highlands and provide numerous recreational opportunities for the public, while providing clean drinking water to tens of thousands of residents and businesses.

Click here for the full rules.

Corbett’s Natural Gas Plan- Where is the Funding for Growing Greener?

2011-10-06T12:06:00.005-04:00

In an announcement made Monday, we learned of Governor Corbett’s plan to implement the Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission’s recommendations. These included some important, common-sense regulatory changes like mandatory set-backs from drinking water sources.

However, the plan’s most anxiously awaited component, the impact fee, contained glaring omissions. Most notably, it lacked funding to offset direct and indirect impacts to public lands and waters by funding Pennsylvania’s highly successful Growing Greener program, which has recently gone bankrupt.

The forests and streams of Pennsylvania bring in billions of dollars annually from recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and boating. They also provide hard-working families the opportunity to relax, explore, and connect with nature. So where is the funding to protect these public lands? Mitigating damages to these special areas is necessary, and the impact fee money from this plan should be used to fund land and water conservation efforts statewide.

Although Corbett says that the new recommendations represent a “sensible and fair plan,” a truly responsible plan should include funding to protect the resources we all depend on and enjoy.

Leaders in Land Conservation - Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick

2011-09-28T10:07:00.000-04:00

Representing Pennsylvania's 8th Congressional District, Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick has been a long-standing leader on land conservation, especially in the Pennsylvania Highlands. To recognize his achievements in helping to protect land and water for the public's benefit, leaders of the conservation community including Mark Zakutansky, AMC's Mid-Atlantic Policy Manager, presented the congressman with an award on September 21, 2011 during the Great Outdoors America Week. The Great Outdoors America Week featured over 200 citizens and organizations who converged on Washington D.C. to share the public's interest in conservation and recreation programs, reminding our elected officials about the sound investment that should be made through the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Highlands Conservation Act.

Left to right: Congressman Fitzpatrick, Mark Zakutansky from the AMC, Paul Spitler - The Wilderness Society (TWS), Alan Rowesome - TWS, and Lindsey Levick with the LWCF Coalition.

Highland Trails in Milford Twp.

2011-08-24T11:17:00.004-04:00

Milford Township is situated at the far northwestern edge of Bucks County and bumps up against municipalities in both Montgomery and Lehigh Counties.

Few townships in our region have been so proactive when it comes to developing trails. That is in large part due to the efforts of Bob Irick, Chair of Milford Township's Park & Rec Board. Yesterday Bob gave me a thorough tour of the existing and planned trails in Milford, some of which will become part of the PA Highlands Trail Network.

Some of the trails are multi-use paved paths (as depicted above) that connect several small subdivisions. Construction will soon begin to extend the trail network to the local elementary school. There are also non-paved walking paths along the Unami Creek. Eventually most of the trails within Milford will connect with Quakertown, Richland Township (also a leader in trail development), and the Unami Trail in Marlborough Township, Montgomery County. The later is still in the planning stages and once completed would provide a connection to the Perkiomen Trail.

Many thanks to Bob Irick and his colleagues in Milford Township!

AMC launches the PA Highlands Conservation Information Center

2011-08-17T10:30:00.003-04:00

AMC releases the Pennsylvania Highlands Conservation Information Center (PHCIC) website, an amazing web tool that will help with the conservation planning and keeping track of land and water conservation in the PA Highlands. Visit the center and check out the 1,500 searchable entries that include spatial data, organizations working in the PA Highlands, research projects, model ordinances/easements/agreements, zoning documents, county-level conservation district programs and resources, and conservation, recreation, and planning projects occurring in the PA Highlands, check out PHCIC.

S. Bethlehem Greenway Opens

2011-08-11T12:27:00.003-04:00

A happy group of Bethlehem, PA residents gathered this morning for a ribbon cutting ceremony that marked the official opening of the South Bethlehem Greenway (Phase II). This urban trail took six years to complete from the earliest planning and design stages to construction and completion. Key support for the Greenway came from the PA Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources and PennDOT.

The PA Highlands Trail Network's 'Northern Route' will be co-aligned with the South Bethlehem Greenway, which is a crucial link between the Lehigh Canal Towpath section of the D&L Trail and the Saucon Rail Trail in Hellertown. The City of Bethlehem is committed to extending the Greenway east to the Saucon Trail and is actively negotiating with Norfolk Southern to complete a short segment of an abandoned rail line.

Congratulations to the City of Bethlehem and all the partner organizations that helped create this wonderful asset!

Building the PA Highlands Trail Network

2011-08-08T11:50:00.002-04:00

AMC is working with several partner organizations and local, state and county governments to develop the Pennsylvania Highlands Trail Network (PHTN) within the 1.9-million acre, 13-county Pennsylvania (PA) Highlands. When completed the Highlands Trail will traverse the PA Highlands from the Delaware River to the Whiskey Springs Uplands, where it will connect with the Appalachian Trail and Maryland border.

The PHTN will be an extension of the existing 150+ mile NY/NJ Highlands Trail, which runs from the Hudson River near Storm King Mountain in New York, through Northern New Jersey to the Delaware River at Riegelsville. Characterized as a “rugged footpath” the NY/NJ Highlands Trail is a combination of new trails, co-alignment along established trails and road walking.

While some sections of the PA Highlands Trail Network will follow secluded, rugged footpaths with spur and/or loop routes to iconic Highlands features such as Ringing Rocks Park (Bucks County), much of the main route of the PHTN will be co-aligned with existing rail and canal towpath trails. And that is a major goal of the PHTN -- to connect many trail systems into one network in the PA Highlands Region that will provide close to home recreation for Highlands residents and visitors. Stay tuned for a detailed description of the envisioned main route(s) of the PHTN within Bucks, Northampton, and Lehigh counties.

New Kiosks in Riegelsville Kick-off Highlands Trail in PA

2011-08-08T11:49:00.001-04:00

Two new interpretive kiosks welcome visitors to PA Highlands and the town of Riegelsville. AMC partnered with the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor to design, produce and install the new signs along the Delaware Canal towpath on June 12th. AMC’s Mohican Trail Crew installed the kiosks with assistance from Borough residents. The interpretive kiosks are located at the trailhead of the Pennsylvania Highlands Trail Network (PHTN) and formally establish the co-alignment of the PA Highlands Trail along a portion of the Delaware & Lehigh Trail system. There are two signs, one that describes the Highlands Region and efforts to establish the Pennsylvania Highlands Trail Network and another sign that offers some great information about the town of Riegelsville.

The Riegelsville kiosk describes the history of the Borough over the past 200 years with a focus on the transportation networks that have evolved over the past two hundred years including river, canal, railroad, trolley and automobile routes. In the 21st century this heritage is the reflected in the recreational trails that Riegelsvlle residents and visitors enjoy including the Delaware Canal Towpath, the Delaware River Water Trail and the Pennsylvania Highlands Trail Network. The Borough of Riegelsville is situated along two nationally designated corridors: The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor and the Lower Delaware National Wild & Scenic River. The Borough is also a National Historic District that features many significant structures that were built during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Conestoga River Water Trail: a PA Highlands Paddling Gem

2011-08-08T11:48:00.006-04:00

As one of Lancaster County’s more scenic rivers, the Conestoga is a popular waterway for canoeing and kayaking. The Conestoga River Water Trail is a Class 1 river runs for sixty miles, emptying into the Susquehanna. All of the trail information including access points, portages, and pictures can be found on PA DCNR’s Explore PA Trails website.

Trees, Paddlers and Wildlife: Safeguarding Ecological and Recreational Values on the River

2011-08-08T11:48:00.004-04:00

Rivers in the Northeast are popular recreation areas for paddlers, swimmers, anglers and bird watchers. A key component in the nature of rivers is a variety of vegetation that falls or is swept into our rivers and streams. For some paddlers, homeowners, and others who live near rivers, large woody vegetation is an impediment or simply unsightly. For the fish, mammals, birds and insects who live in and around the river, these logs and big branches form an essential element of the river’s ecology. Protecting these instream habitat characteristics is important to assuring a species-rich and diverse river system. AMC developed a video and brochure on balancing the ecological and recreational values of the river. Learn more and watching the video.

River Safety, Preparedness, Equipment and River Ratings

2011-08-08T11:47:00.004-04:00

Ever wondered what a paddler means by a class III rapid or how to use hand signals to warn a fellow paddler upstream of a hazard you have encountered? Learn more about safety and commonly used practices to help be more prepared on the river ensuring an enjoyable and safe time paddling in the Pennsylvania Highlands. Read American Whitewater’s Safety Code.

Going Local in the Pennsylvania Highlands

2010-02-02T14:31:00.002-05:00

The Appalachian Mountain Club is excited to be partnering with three organizations, Berks County Conservancy, the Horse-Shoe Trail Conservancy and Lancaster County Conservancy to “go local” in the Pennsylvania (PA) Highlands. Thanks to the generous support of the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and other foundations these organizations were awarded grants to reach out to municipalities throughout the PA Highlands in order to increase awareness and protection of this incredible landscape. This is the second year AMC has coordinated this successful program and believe it will go along way in helping reach some of the almost 200 municipalities in the PA Highlands.

Outreach will take place from January through May 2010 and is focused on the Oley Hills, Furnace Hills and Welsh Mountain Conservation Priority Areas (CPA’s) of the PA Highlands. More information on the PA Highlands' CPA’s can be found at Pennsylvania Highlands Conservation Atlas. Through these efforts, we hope to secure protection, such as Resolutions of Support, for the environmental, agricultural, cultural, and recreation resources of the 2 million-acre, 13-county PA Highlands mega-greenway. If you would like a sample resolution to present to your municipality or more information on the PA Highlands contact Mark Zakutansky at mzakutansky@outdoors.org.

Smiles & Prizes: Winners of the Hike the Highlands Scavenger Hunt

2009-12-04T15:12:00.001-05:00

The winners of AMC and Wildlands Conservancy's Hike the Highlands Scavenger Hunt rave over the Hike the Highlands hiking cards and the prizes they won for just going outside and hiking. Who can beat that?

The scavenger hunt ran from mid-July through October 31, 2009. Monthly drawings were made from scavenger hunt participants who entered at least three answers. Thanks everyone for participating in the scavenger hunt and enjoying the outdoors of the PA Highlands. A big thank you to everyone who donated prizes!

Picture: September Winner - Barbara Liberti, Easton, PA. She is all smiles with her new walking stick and ready to get back on the trails with it.

August Winner:

First Place: Mike Haughey, Levittown, PA

Mountain Smith Vibe II Lumbar Park donated from Wildware Backcountry

Mike had the pick of the prizes as he was the first one to send in Hike the Highlands Scavenger Hunt answers.

"I would like to recieve the Mountain Smith Lumbar pac. It will be great to take along on some of the other hikes I plan on doing. Thanks again,
Mike Haughey"

September Winners:

First Place: Tim Linnan, Warrington, PA
REI $20 gift certificate

Tim and his wife, Joanne, went to Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary to scavenge for an answer for the Hike the Highlands Scavenger Hunt. Here is what he had to say about their hike:

"We arrived at the Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary around mid morning on a hot late August day. We were greeted by the very gregarious caretaker who proceeded to give us very detailed descriptions of all the possible hikes we could take. He carefully told us that there was a several hundred feet drop on the hike to oversee the Delaware river vistas and the view was obscured by the foliage. He recommended that we take that hike in the fall or winter when we would get a spectacular view. The caretaker was very knowledgeable and you should seek him out prior to embarking on your hike. We decided upon another hike in the Sanctuary where we could take advantage of the shelter of the forest canopy on such a steamy day. We strayed off our chosen path and had a several hundred feet decline before the trail leveled off. Of course that several hundred feet had to be compensated for on the way back but it was an enjoyable hike just the same.

If you go make sure to stop in at the visitor center and pick up a map of the trails in the Sanctuary and peruse the other brochures. There are also several wildlife displays in the main room.

I would definitely recommend the visit and we plan to go again in late fall or winter." -Tim Linnan, Hiker

Second Place: Dawn Wray, Quarryville, PA

Avenir Sonic Pro Bike Helmet & a Rails to Trails Bike Shop T-shirt donated by Rails to Trail Bicycle Shop

Third Place: Joanne Linnan, Warrington, PA

Gander Mountain hat & Nalgene water bottle

Fouth Place: Barbara Liberti, Easton, PA

Walking stick donated by DCNR - State Parks (Kings Gap Environmental Education Center)

"Thanks, I think I'd like a walking stick. What a selection! I am now working on more hiking for October. The weather has been beautiful." -Barb

October Winners:

First Place: Ross "Rooster" Magee, Spring City, PA

REI $20 gift certificate, Gander Mountain hat, and Nalgene water bottle

"Well Thank you very much.Thats great. Never thought I would win anything. Did it for the hikes and scenery. Again thank you. It was all very nice." - Rooster (Ross Magee)

*Rooster had the most answers to the scavenger hunt questions. He hiked 9 out of the 22 Hike the Highlands hiking cards. Read what he had to say about it all!

Hello Folks,

"More hikes, more questions, oh my yes, more answers. Bid day yesterday 5 parks in one day. Yes I hurt today. But it's a good hurt. Answers for hikes #1,2,4,5,6. #4 I did last week. Man what a day. Going back to some. They need more exploration. Thanks again for the cards this is great."

Health and Happiness -Rooster

Second Place: Hallowell Family, Macungie, PA.

Disc Golf Set donated by Wildware Backcountry

"Our family was surprised and pleased to have won one of your prizes! We would be very happy to have the "Disc Golf Set". It's been a pleasure trying out some of the trails we weren't familiar with. I think your Hiking Cards are a great idea. Thank you so much!"- Kathleen Hallowell

Third Place: Dick Parks, Allentown, PA

Aardvark Sports Shop $20 gift certificate

New Pennsylvania trails website launched

2009-12-02T14:20:00.001-05:00

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has launched a new website featuring trails throughout Pennsylvania. The website: ExplorePAtrails.com "features an interactive map, driving directions, a forum for updating trails information, and a place where people can upload reviews and share stories about their favorite trails," according to the PA DCNR. Their are currently over 5,900 miles of trails on the site including a number of trails in the Pennsylvania Highlands.

Hibernia County Park Featured in AMC Outdoors Magazine

2009-11-12T06:22:00.001-05:00

This year the Land and Water Conservation Fund turns 45. For more than four decades this important conservation funding program has protected landscapes across the nation from Yellowstone National Park to Central Park in New York City. It has also conserved some of the premier desinations in the Highlands including Hibernia County Park in Chester County. This park and many others are featured in AMC Outdoors magazine. You can check out the article at: http://www.outdoors.org/publications/outdoors/2009/getout/hike-protected-lands.cfm

Haven't heard of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)? The LWCF was established by Congress in 1965 and designated that a portion of receipts from offshore oil and gas leases be placed into a fund annually for state and local conservation, as well as for the protection of our national treasures (parks, forest and wildlife areas). Annually the fund is supposed to provide $900 million for conservation, unfortunately the program has only done so twice in its history. AMC and a coalition of groups called the Land and Water Conservation Fund Coalition are working to see that the LWCF if fully funded. To learn more about this please become a fan of the LWCF on Facebook.

Happy Trails!

New Jersey Voters Approve $400 Million for Preservation Programs

2009-11-04T16:56:00.001-05:00

Open Space, farmland and historic preservation efforts in New Jersey gained ground Tuesday, when voters approved a statewide referendum to add $400 million to the State’s preservation programs. New Jersey’s Green Acres, Farmland Preservation and Historic Trust programs can now continue their success in protecting clean drinking water, parks and natural areas, habitat for fish and wildlife, working farms and historic sites.

The public has historically supported New Jersey’s preservation efforts. Since 1961, voters have approved 13 ballot measures in support of these valued programs. The $400 million approved by voters on November 3rd comes at a critical time as preservation dollars have been exhausted from the State’s coffers, but interest in preservation remains high. Approved in one of the toughest economic times in recent history, these results demonstrate that citizens overwhelmingly support open space and other preservation efforts in good times and bad.

With the newly secured funds, New Jersey can now continue its successful protection of northern New Jersey’s Highlands Region, a land area of over 800,000 acres that provides drinking water to over 5.4 million people in the State and provides outdoor recreational opportunities for citizens from New York City to the Lehigh Valley.

The Appalachian Mountain Club is a member of the New Jersey Keep It Green Campaign, a coalition of 135 organizations working to ensure that preservation funds continue to be available in the Garden State. Visit the New Jersey Keep It Green Campaign ‘s website at http://www.njkeepitgreen.org/ for more information on New Jersey’s preservation programs and how you can get involved.

Mid-Atlantic Highlands Land Conservation Bolstered with New Federal Funding

2009-11-04T11:43:00.001-05:00

The 4-State Highlands region of Connecticut, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania received a big boost on October 29th when Congress approved $4 million to fund conservation of the Highlands’ most critically important lands. This is great news for the continued success of AMC’s Mid-Atlantic Highlands program.

Under the 2004 Highlands Conservation Act (HCA), Congress is authorized to approve $10 million a year for land conservation partnership projects that permanently protect high conservation value lands within the 4-state, 3.5 million acre Highlands Region. Unfortunately, since 2004 only $5.2 million in total has been allocated. The recently approved Interior Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2010, which includes $4 million in funding for the Highlands Conservation Act, will be the most funding that the program has ever received.

With land prices low and interest in conservation strong, the increased funds in 2010 will go a long way. AMC and our partners would like to thank our Highlands’ region congressional delegations in Washington D.C. for ensuring that $4 million in funds will be available for the upcoming year.

Each year, governors of the four Highlands states may submit land conservation projects in the Highlands for funding not to exceed fifty-percent of the total cost; projects must be consistent with areas identified as having high resource value. The Fiscal Year 2010 HCA funds will go towards Ethel Walker, Scoville and Naugatuck/Mad River Headwaters properties in Connecticut; Greater Sterling Forest in New York; New Jersey's Northern Highlands; and Texter Mountain in Pennsylvania. For more information on these projects http://www.outdoors.org/pdf/upload/FY10_HCA_FL_FactSheets.pdf

The Highlands region not only provides recreational opportunities to 25 million people who live within a one-hour drive, but also clean and plentiful drinking water to millions of residents of this region as well as critical habitat for numerous threatened and endangered species. The Highlands are a treasure in need of protection, and AMC continues to promote full funding of the Highlands Conservation Act, as well as helping specific land conservation efforts to move forward.

Come explore the Highlands and see how AMC is working to protect and enhance recreational opportunities and land conservation by visiting our website www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands and continue to follow our blog. If you’d like to receive more information on the Mid-Atlantic Highlands and how you can help advance conservation efforts, join our Conservation Action Network at http://www.outdoors.org/conservation/action/.

Pictures: (Top Left) FY 2010 HCA NJ Project: Lake on the Northern Highlands tract By Jada Jackson, State of NJ Div. of Parks & Forestry. (Middle Right) FY 2010 HCA NY project: “Greater Sterling Forest”Waterfall on a tributary of the Ramapo River in NY’s Sterling Forest By Geoff Welch, Ramapo River Committee.

Calling all City Kids…Time to Head to the Country

2009-10-16T10:09:00.001-04:00

GUEST BLOG
Rebecca Morley, Devine + Powers

It’s amazing what getting out of downtown Philadelphia for a day can do for the soul. A couple weeks ago I took a day trip out to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site for a day of hiking and apple-picking, and within just a few short minutes of being out in the open space I felt refreshed. Perhaps it was the absence of pavement and tall buildings that made me feel like I had a little more room to breathe, or the lack of people and cars rushing around that instantly made me exhale.

I think we city kids think anything not within walking distance, or in between the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, feels like a world away. Well good news – lots of great day trips are closer than you might think. When I first started on my venture out to Hopewell Furnace I was not exactly sure how long it was going to take, and was amazed that from door to door it only took me about 45 minutes (this included going to pick up a PhillyCarShare car I rented to get out there). Getting there was much faster than I anticipated and it was also extremely easy to find.

I was there on National Public Lands Day to help with event planning for a day of activities sponsored by Hopewell Furnace and AMC to honor National Public Lands Day and to launch AMC’s new Pennsylvania Highlands Recreation Map & Guide. In addition to the people coming to our event, I was impressed to see so many other families and groups of friends there on their own walking on the trails, apple-picking and biking. If you aren’t up for one of the many activities available, the surroundings are gorgeous and alone are worth the trip – so maybe opt for bringing a picnic lunch and a book instead.

While downtown Philadelphia certainly has nice outdoor spaces such as Rittenhouse Square and Kelly Drive, it was a nice change of pace to get out of the city for a day and do something outside of my ordinary routine. I had never gone apple-picking before, and although I only found about a dozen apples, it was a ton of fun. Although I did not have time to do all of the activities, now I have the perfect excuse to go back!

So for those of you who have yet to make it beyond the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, grab some of your friends and head out to Hopewell Furnace. It’s the perfect day trip -- close, convenient, and a calming change of pace from the city.

AMC Promotes New PA Highlands Recreation Map to Ohh’s and Ahhs’ in Philly

2009-10-09T15:17:00.001-04:00

The hustle and bustle of Philadelphia buzzed around the Schuylkill Banks on October 8th as AMC unveiled its new PA Highlands Regional Recreation Map and Guide. Dog-walkers, families, business people, joggers, bicyclists and paddlers enjoyed the beautiful fall day and picked up free copies of the new map, highlighting recreational opportunities throughout the 13-county PA Highlands Region. Speakers at the event shared their excitement for conservation efforts, trail development and the family-friendly hiking, biking and paddling guides available through the AMC in the Pennsylvania Highlands and Southeastern Pennsylvania.

To promote healthy, active lifestyles and to make it easier for people to get outdoors the AMC is distributing the new PA Highlands Regional Recreation Map and Guide for free, featuring close-to-home recreational opportunities including trail and boat access points, safety tips, and points of interest.

Commissioner for the Philadelphia Department of Parks and Recreation, Michael DiBerardinis said, “Outdoor recreational opportunities, such as those available in the Pennsylvania Highlands, are one of the best ways for children to connect with the nature. The new Pennsylvania Highlands Regional Recreation Map provides families and organizations in Philadelphia with an easy-to-use resource to help plan activities in the wild lands outside of the city.”

Maps are available at outfitter shops, park offices and other locations throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania as well as by visiting: www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands/ Also available are our fabulous Hike the Highlands Cards that feature 22 unique hikes throughout the Pennsylvania Highlands. The cards can be downloaded or ordered through our website.

The October 8th event in Philadelphia was co-hosted by the Schuylkill River Development Corporation, which is working on the redevelopment of the Tidal Schuylkill River and expanding the Schuylkill River Trail to the Delaware River. Joseph Syrnick of the Schuylkill River Development Corporation spoke about the work of his organization and the incredible recreational resources along the river, connecting Philadelphia residents to the Pennsylvania Highlands by bike and foot.

Sherry Peck of the National Park Service - Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance program added that AMC’s new map and guide is “just another great resource AMC has created to encourage families and the public to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors close to home in healthy, safe and affordable ways.”
Jennifer Heisey, AMC’s Mid-Atlantic Recreation Planner emceed the event and also extolled the many benefits of AMC’s new map,“The Pennsylvania Highlands Regional Recreation Map and Guide is the newest and best way to explore the Pennsylvania Highlands,” said Jennifer Heisey, Mid-Atlantic Recreation Planner for the Appalachian Mountain Club. “The Pennsylvania Highlands is 1.9 million acres of serene forests and open space, trails and rivers all within a short drive from Philadelphia.”

For your free copy of the new recreation map and guide and AMC’s Hike the Highlands cards, visit www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands/ or contact Jennifer Heisey: jheisey@outdoors.org, 610-868-6906.

Don't Miss Out On Prizes! Hike the Highlands Scavenger Hunt Still On Until the End of October

2009-10-05T16:03:00.001-04:00

Fall foliage is upon is and so is the last month of the Hike the Highlands Scavenger Hunt. There are still lots of cool outdoorsy prizes!

REI Gift Cards
EMS Gear Rentals
Bike Helmet & T-shirt
Disc Golf Set
EMS Stash Duffel Bags
Aardvark Sports Shop Gift Certificate
Gander Mountain Ball Caps & Nalgene water bottles
Hiking Stick
One-Year Membership to the Berks County Conservancy & Reuseable Grocery Bag
And MORE...........

Wondering how you can be part of the fun? Download the scavenger hunt questions and the Hike the Highlands cards at www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands under hiking resources. Then register and go to three of the 22 Hike the Highlands hikes to find the answers to the scavenger hunt questions. Once you had fun exploring the PA Highlands email in your three answers for the October prize drawings.

There are still lots of chances to win great prizes. Now get out into the PA Highlands!

Check out what August's winner received!

Mountainsmith Vibe II Lumbar Park

*Donated by Wildware Backcountry

Come Have Fun in Philly with AMC's Launch of the PA Highlands Regional Recreation Map & Guide

2009-10-05T12:15:00.001-04:00

On Thursday, October 8th at 12pm join AMC under the Walnut Street Bridge in Center City Philadelphia to unveil and launch the PA Highlands Regional Recreation Map & Guide along the Schuylkill River Trail & Banks.

(2433 Walnut St. Philadelphia, PA 19103)

This a great opportunity to get outside for lunch and pick up free copies of the PA Highlands Map & Hike the Highlands hiking cards. The map unveiling also includes a workshop on "How To's for Outdoor Exploration including how to "Leave No Trace".

Guest speakers include:

Jennifer Heisey, Appalachian Mountain Club
Joseph Syrnick, Schuylkill River Development Corporation
Michael DiBerardinis, Park and Recreation Commissioner, City of Philadelphia
Sherry Peck, National Park Service - Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! - AMC

Questions? Contact Jennifer Heisey:

jheisey@outdoors.org 610-868-6906

www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands

AMC 's NEW PA Highlands Recreation Map Successfully Launched at Hopewell Furnace NHS

2009-09-30T13:38:00.001-04:00

Apples, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, and homemade granola bars. What more could you ask for? Well many had more than just treats but lots of fun spending time outdoors on a beautiful autumn day in the

PA Highlands on Sat. Sept. 26th.

AMC partnered with Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site on Sat. Sept. 26th for a fun family day of volunteering, apple picking, hiking, paddling, and free PA Highlands Regional Recreation maps & hiking cards.

The day began with guest speakers and the launching of the map while picking up free copies of the map & hiking cards. Then in honor of National Public Lands Day everyone hit the trails to give back. One large group hiked into the woods to clear a new trail while another group worked on the Horse-Shoe Trail. As a reward for volunteering everyone received a free one-day pass to any National Park.

After lunch, with bellies full of apples and cookies, many continued to explore Hopewell Furnace by going on hikes, a Hopewell Lake paddle, apple picking, and/or enjoyed the Hopewell Furnace's village alive with history.

A big THANK YOU to our co-host, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, volunteers and guest speakers!

*Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is one of 75 places you can explore in the PA Highlands highlighted on the PA Highlands Regional Recreation Map & Guide.

If you weren't lucky enough to join us on this special day and want to get your hands on a PA Highlands Regional Recreation Map & Guide and/or the Hike the Highlands hiking cards go to www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands and click on hiking resources. Enjoy!

AMC Unveils new Pennsylvania Highlands Recreation Map and Guide

2009-09-25T16:28:00.001-04:00

On September 26th, the Appalachian Mountain Club released its long awaited Pennsylvania Highlands Recreation Map and Guide. The back drop for the unveiling was the lovely Hopewell Furance National Historic Site in French Creek State Park. The AMC chose September 26th, National Public Lands Day, to unveil the map. AMC is a supporter of National Public Lands Day as the Club works to give back to the lands that carry our feet, boats and skis every day.

A press release from the event can be found below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts:
Rebecca Morley
215) 568-2525
rmorley@devinepowers.com

Laura Hurley
AMC Public Relations Associate Director
(617) 391-6621
lhurley@outdoors.org

Appalachian Mountain Club Unveils New Pennsylvania Highlands Recreation Map
Local residents invited to join the AMC for free, family-friendly outdoor activities on September 26

BETHLEHEM, PA - September 26, 2009 - The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) is today unveiling its new Pennsylvania Highlands Regional Recreation Map and Guide, a free, easy-to-use resource for close-to-home outdoor recreation opportunities across the 13-county Highlands region in southeastern Pennsylvania. Local residents are invited to experience the Pennsylvania Highlands firsthand by joining AMC staff, AMC Delaware Valley chapter members, and local partners for free, family-friendly guided activities offered on September 26 at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site in Berks and Chester Counties.

All participants will receive the map and guide, as well as a set of the new Hike the Highlands hiking cards created by the AMC and Wildlands Conservancy. This series of pocket-sized cards provides information on 22 different hikes throughout the 1.9 million-acre Pennsylvania Highlands.

The Pennsylvania Highlands Regional Recreation Map and Guide includes:
•Locator map with at-a-glance trip planner for 75 trails, parks, forests, and preserves that identifies by location the recreational opportunities (hiking, walking-running, biking, horseback riding, boating, fishing, camping, and swimming), historic sites, and nature centers.
•Locations of state gamelands, water trails, and boat access points.
•Responsible recreation guidelines.
•Regional conservation and trail stewardship efforts, plus information about the natural, historical, cultural, and agricultural values of the Pennsylvania Highlands.
•Overview of the AMC’s Pennsylvania Highlands Trail Network Project, which as envisioned will traverse the entire region from Bucks to Adams Counties.
•Outdoor resources available from the AMC, state agencies, and outdoor recreation and tourism organizations.

“We are excited to partner with Hopewell Furnace to unveil our new Recreation Map and Guide and to host a day for families and individuals to get outdoors and experience the wealth of activities the Pennsylvania Highlands have to offer,” said Jennifer Heisey, Mid-Atlantic Recreation Planner for the Appalachian Mountain Club. “We hope this introduction to the Pennsylvania Highlands will encourage residents to regularly visit and recreate in this amazing area so close to home.”

The kick-off event at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site today features activities beginning at 10:00 a.m., including a guided family-friendly hike and more challenging six-mile hike, paddling on Hopewell Lake, biking, apple-picking, and self-guided historical interpretative walks. In support of National Public Lands Day, participants who help to revitalize the trails and other areas of Hopewell Furnace will receive a free pass valid at any National Park or other federal site that charges an entrance fee.

To help celebrate the launch of the map and guide, the AMC is joined at the event by Hopewell Furnace, Natural Lands Trust, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, and Hopewell Big Woods Partnership, an organization that supports Hopewell Big Woods, one of the last unbroken forests in Pennsylvania spanning 110 square miles in Berks and Chester Counties.

“We are joining National Parks across America in celebrating National Public Lands Day and are thrilled to be working with the AMC to host a day of activities for families and individuals of all ages,” said Edie Shean-Hammond, Superintendent of Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. “When people interact with the environment, they are more likely to become stewards of it and have a greater appreciation for the outdoors. It is our hope that people will enjoy this day of fun activities, and that by spending time in the Pennsylvania Highlands and at Hopewell Furnace, they will also be more likely to participate in land preservation and care in the future.”

Free copies of the Pennsylvania Highlands Recreation Map and Guide are available at locations across the region, including Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, French Creek State Park, Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, and Chester County Parks. Copies of the map can also be requested through the AMC’s website under “Hiking Resources” at www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands.

Support for the map and guide was provided in part by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, Environmental Stewardship Fund, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, and the William Penn Foundation.

For Saturday, September 26 event details, visit http://hikethehighlands.blogspot.com.

About Appalachian Mountain Club
Founded in 1876, the Appalachian Mountain Club is America’s oldest conservation and recreation organization. With more than 100,000 members, advocates, and supporters in the Northeast and beyond, the nonprofit AMC promotes the protection, enjoyment, and stewardship of the mountains, forests, waters, and trails of the Appalachian region. The AMC supports natural resource conservation while encouraging responsible recreation, based on the philosophy that successful, long-term conservation depends upon first-hand enjoyment of the natural environment. For more information about the AMC, visit www.outdoors.org.

The AMC Delaware Valley Chapter offers around 750 activities each year throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and beyond. Visit the chapter’s website at: www.amcdv.org.

###

Escape to the PA Highlands to Celebrate AMC's NEW Pennsylvania Highlands Regional Recreation Map & Guide

2009-09-17T12:36:00.001-04:00

On Sat. September 26th at 10am, AMC will celebrate and unveil the NEW PA Highlands Regional Recreation Map and Guide at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. This includes lots of fun-packed, family-friendly outdoor recreational activities. This is also your chance to become a steward of the land by participating in National Public Lands Day with park and trail clean-ups during the celebration.

This is a great time of the year to enjoy nature's autumn colors and bounty. Hope to see you there!

DISCOVER THE PA HIGHLANDS

When: National Public Lands Day, Sat. September 26, 2009 10:00am. Rain or Shine.

Where: Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, 2 Mark Bird Lane
Elverson, Pennsylvania 19520. Directions available online at http://www.nps.gov/hofu/ Meet under the white tent adjacent to the visitors center.

What: Map unveiling, Outdoor Recreational Activities & Free copies of the new PA Highlands Regional Recreation Map & Guide as well as free copies of the Hike the Highlands Cards, featuring 22 hikes in the PA Highlands.

Schedule of Events:

10am - 11 am: Map & Guide Unveiling featuring guest speakers and dignitaries
Free copies of the map & hiking cards. Location: under the tent

11 am – 12 pm: Park and trail clean-up work for National Public Lands Day.
All participants receive a free day pass to any National Park!
* Participants should wear close-toed shoes and bring work gloves.

12 pm – 1 pm: Lunch, under the tent and on the grassy picnic area.
* Please bring a picnic style lunch and a blanket to sit on the grass.

1 pm – 4 pm: Sign-up for Volunteer Led Outdoor Recreational Activities

•Hikes: Six-mile hike or family hike (2-3 miles), bring appropriate shoes & water.

•Bike Ride: 22-mile road bike trip, please bring a road bike, spare tube, & helmet.

•Paddle: Enjoy a leisurely paddle on scenic Hopewell Lake (Bring your own canoe or kayak or rent one for $18.00. Personal flotation device required.)

•Apple Picking: Heirloom apple orchard adjacent to event tent, $1/lb. pick your own, equipment and map available from the park visitors center.

•Hopewell Village Living History Tour: Follow the park’s self-guided tour through the historic Hopewell Furnace and experience history first-hand.

For more information contact: Jennifer Heisey,
jheisey@outdoors.org (610) 868-6906
On the web at www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands

*Event co-hosted by AMC & Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

National Conservation group features the Highlands

2009-09-02T13:47:00.003-04:00

The Wilderness Society, a national conservation organization, featured the Highlands on their website in a headline story called: A Tall Drink of Water. The piece highlights recent funds to conserve land in the Pennsylvania Highlands and urges Congress to fully fund the Highlands Conservation Act. The article can be viewed at: http://wilderness.org/content/tall-drink-water.

National Conservation group features the Highlands

2009-09-02T13:47:00.002-04:00

Highlands Conservation Act event at Cooks Creek Watershed with Congressman Patrick Murphy

2009-08-26T17:17:00.001-04:00

* * * * Media Advisory * * * *

Rep. Patrick Murphy Announces Federal Funding for Cooks Creek Conservation Project
Funding Will Preserve Open Space, Bolster Conservation Efforts for Local Watershed

(Springfield Township, PA) – Today, Pennsylvania Congressman Patrick Murphy (D-8th District) joined environmental leaders and local elected officials to announce $700,000 in federal funding for the Cooks Creek Watershed conservation project in the Highlands region of Upper Bucks County.

This funding, secured by Congressman Murphy, will help support conservation and land acquisition efforts to ensure that watersheds, forests, farmland and trails in the Pennsylvania Highlands are preserved for generations to come, including keeping drinking water clean and safe for over 15 million people. The Highlands Conservation Act, passed in 2004, recognizes the Highlands as “nationally significant” and authorizes $110 million over 10 years toward lands conservation in the region.

“Protecting areas like the Cooks Creek Watershed preserves our natural resources and improves the quality of life for our families,” said Rep. Murphy. “By being good stewards of this landscape, we ensure that our children and grandchildren will enjoy these resources for years to come.”

“The Appalachian Mountain Club applauds Congressman Murphy's leadership in securing Highlands Conservation Act funding to help protect this watershed for the millions of residents who benefit from it," said Kristen Sykes, Mid-Atlantic Project Manager for the Appalachian Mountain Club. "Our staff and members are strong advocates for the preservation of natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities in the Pennsylvania Highlands, and federal, state and local funding is essential to the Cooks Creek Watershed conservation project.”

The 1999 Bucks County Natural Areas Inventory rates the Highlands area Priority 1, and Heritage Conservancy includes Cooks Creek Watershed as part of its Lasting Landscapes Program. The Highlands region is 3.5 million acres of forest, farmland, and rugged hills extending from south-central PA, through NJ and NY into northwestern CT. These eastern-most ridges of the Appalachian Mountains form a greenbelt for the Philadelphia-New York City-Hartford metropolitan area. The Highlands are home to more than 250 endangered, threatened, and rare species. The Pennsylvania Highlands are 1.9 million acres extending 13 counties from Northampton to Adams.

# # #

For Immediate Release, August 26, 2009
Contact: Kate Hansen, (202) 225-4276

You're Invited to a Scavenger Hunt in the PA Highlands!

2009-07-23T16:14:00.001-04:00

AMC and Wildlands Conservancy have launched their
Hike the Highlands Scavenger Hunt!

Be among the many scavenging for answers to questions for each of the 22 "Hike the Highlands" hiking cards.

You could hike your way to winning outdoor gear prizes in monthly drawings!! All prizes have been graciously donated.

Go to www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands for scavenger hunt questions and details. Participants must answer a minimum of three scavenger hunt questions to be eligible for prizes.

Answers to the scavenger hunt questions cannot be found by searching online, but rather require participants to actually “hike the highlands” in order to discover them.

“The scavenger hunt is a great way for people to discover some of the most beautiful forests, rivers and farmland in southeastern Pennsylvania,” said Jennifer Heisey, Mid-Atlantic Recreation Planner for the Appalachian Mountain Club. “It is an activity for families and people of all ages. As people across the region look for outdoor recreational activities this summer we hope they will take advantage of this amazing resource close to home.”

AMC and Wildlands Conservancy Hit the Road to Deliver Boxes of Hike the Highlands Cards

2009-07-16T14:10:00.001-04:00

The week of July 13th AMC's Mid-Atlantic Recreation Planner, Jennifer Heisey, and Wildland Conservancy's Special Projects Director, Tom Gettings hand delivered over fifty boxes of Hike the Highlands cards all over the 13-county PA Highlands. "We were happy to spread these great hiking resources out to over fifty places to give out free to the public," says Jennifer. Deliveries were made to multiple Eastern Mountain Sports stores, REI, state parks, national historic sites, county parks, and the list goes on.

When all is said and done 5,000 packets of Hike the Highlands cards will be given out for all to enjoy! Hurry these are hot commodities!!!

Pick-up locations for hard copies of the Hike the Highlands cards can be found at www.outdoors.org/hikethehighlands or can be downloaded on-line.

New Hub Named in the Pennsylvania Highlands!

2009-07-09T14:40:00.001-04:00

On Saturday, June 20th the Delaware River Greenway Partnership held a formal naming ceremony for the Tinicum/Nockamixon hub of the Pennsylvania Highlands.

A baker’s dozen of stalwart souls braved the Saturday downpour and stood by a giant rock in the woods to give a name to the wooded Highlands resource concentration Hub that covers Tinicum Bridgeton, and Nockamixon Townships. Permission was obtained from the PA Game Commission to hold the ceremony at a site in Game Lands #56, which is central to the hub.

Shelley DePaul, assistant chief of the Lenape Nation of PA, and the first woman to hold this position, conducted the ceremony formalizing the occasion. Chief DePaul first lit cedar and sage leaves, allowing each participant to inhale the smoke and thus open his or her mind to the importance of the ceremony. Calling on the Grandmothers and Grandfathers of the four cardinal compass directions, Chief DePaul asked them to protect the resources of this very special area, and named it the Welakamike Woods, a “good place” in the Lenape language.

Supervisors and interested citizens from the communities ignored the weather to celebrate the occasion, along with Tinicum Conservancy board members and Delaware River Greenway Partnership President Marion M. Kyde. Umbrellas were also in attendance.

The Welakamike Woods joins other Highland Hubs with Lenape names – the Unami Hills and the Conewego Mountains, both further to the southwest. The aquifers and watersheds of the Pennsylvania Highlands provide drinking water for millions, and habitat for many endangered plants and animals –“good places” indeed, for all who depend on these resources.

Research has shown that people are more protective of a stream or landmark when they can put a name to it. Adding the Welekamike Woods to the Highlands map will give the people of Pennsylvania a new focal point for resource protection.

Land Meets Water: Highlands Trail Efforts Recognized During the Delaware River Sojourn

2009-06-26T11:48:00.001-04:00

Every year paddlers come from all over to paddle in the Delaware River Sojourn. This year's 15th Annual Sojourn, No One Left Inside, was from Sunday June 21st to Saturday June 27th. It is a multi-day educational event focused on getting people acquainted with the Delaware and celebrating some of the local/regional environmental successes impacting the river.

http://www.delawareriversojourn.org/

A tradition of the Sojourn is to honor someone Lord High Admiral for the day. On Day 5 of the Delaware River Sojourn, the Appalachian Mountain Club and the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference were honored as Lord High Admirals for all their efforts on the land-based Highlands Trail. On this particular day paddlers passed along the section of the Highlands Trail that runs along and crosses the Delaware River in Riegelsville, NJ and Riegelsville, PA. On May 16, 2009 the Highlands Trail was welcomed into Riegelsville, PA via the Riegelsville Toll-Supported Bridge.

During the lunch break in Riegelsville, NJ Jennifer Heisey, AMC Mid-Atlantic Recreation Planner, was honored and declared the Lady Lord High Admiral for the day for all her efforts on the Highlands Trail in PA. She was commissioned with an official Lord High Admiral Delaware River Sojourn hat. The NYNJTC was also honored but was unable to attend the day long paddle.

AMC would like to thank the Delaware River Sojourn 2009 Steering Committee for this special honor. Jennifer especially enjoyed her paddle down the Delaware River and getting out into the Highlands!

Crossing Municipal and County Borders to Plan the PA Highlands Trail Network: Upper Bucks & Lower Northampton Counties

2009-06-17T16:36:00.001-04:00

On the evening of Tuesday June 16th, the excitement and momentum of the Highlands Trail entering into Riegelsville, PA, continued. Over twenty community, municipal, land trust, DCNR, and county representatives came together to collaboratively worktogether across municipal and county borders to plan the Highlands Trail in Upper Bucks and Lower Northampton Counties. The steering committee began tackling one of their first goals of creating a prioritized action plan. The next meeting will be held in July.

Overall the Steering Committee will be volunteering their time towards:

Creating a prioritized action plan for the PHTN in Upper Bucks & Lower Northampton Counties.
Beginning the implementation of the action plan that will lead to getting the trail on the ground.
Raising community awareness and engagement of the PHTN and the PA Highlands in Upper Bucks and Lower Northampton Counties.

Want to know how to get involved with this effort? Contact Jennifer Hieisey 610-868-6906 or jheisey@outdoors.org

Out and About: GPSing Trails for the PA Highlands Recreation Map

2009-06-12T14:26:00.001-04:00

Have you seen someone either hiking or biking with a yellow backpack and antennae holding some kind of tracking unit in the PA Highlands?

You may have spotted AMC's Mid-Atlantic Recreation Planner out and about collecting trails data with a GPS for the upcoming PA Highlands Recreation Map. Rain or shine Jennifer Heisey has been out working hard to collect data so you will know where to hike, bike, horseback ride, paddle, fish, swim, and camp in the PA Highlands.

STAY TUNED!!!! The PA Highlands Recreation map will include trails, parks, and boating among other exciting features. It will be available free to the public at the end of August/early September.

AMC Announces First Meeting of the PA Highlands Trail Network Upper Bucks-Lower Northampton County Steering Committee

2009-06-05T15:31:00.002-04:00

On Tuesday June 16th, AMC will convene the first steering committee meeting for planning the PA Highlands Trail Network (PHTN) in Upper Bucks and Lower Northampton Counties. It will take place from 7-9pm at Nockamixon State Park.

AMC and the steering committee will be tasked with creating an action plan and moving it forward in their communities. It will consist of goals, actions, and a timeline specific to planning the PHTN in Upper Bucks and Lower Northampton. Focus areas of the action plan may relate to identifying a trail route, community engagement, funding, and mangement of the trail network.

The steering committee consists mainly of representives from each of the municipalities in Upper Bucks and Lower Northampton Counties that fall within the PA Highlands. Other steering committee members are from Heritage Conservancy, Natural Lands Trust, Wildlands Conservancy, Bucks County Planning Commission, PA DCNR Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, and PA DCNR - Nockamixon State Park.