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October 1, 2025

Featured Project: Antrim Township Adds Nature Play Area, Other Amenities to Community Park
families gather and play at the nature play area at Community Park in Antrim Township
two people play pickleball on a new court at Community Park in Antrim Township
Antrim Township in Franklin County recently cut the ribbon on major upgrades to its Community Park.
The star attraction is a new, unique nature play area. Designed to honor the community’s agricultural heritage, the area features replica tractors, playhouses, and seasonal water elements.
“We are thrilled to share this unique play area with the community,” Cheryl Walburn, Antrim Township parks director, said. “I look forward to seeing the kids play and highlighting what is happening in our parks.”
Other upgrades include pickleball courts, a comfort station, and pedestrian walkways. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) supported these amenities with a grant of more than $500,000 in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds.
DCNR continues to invest in the park. A recent grant from the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund will help create a non-motorized boat launch at the park, providing access to the Conococheague Creek.

Featured Project: Conservation Landscape Mini-Grant Expands Enola Low Grade Trail Parking
the expanded parking area at the Enola Low Grade Trail trailhead
The Enola Low Grade Trail in Lancaster County has seen increased use since the reopening of the Martic Forge Trestle Bridge in 2022. Recognizing that need, Martic Township requested and received a mini-grant from the Susquehanna Riverlands Conservation Landscape to expand trailhead parking lot on Red Hill Road.
“The rail trail is in constant use, all day, every day,” said Jim Hearn, chair of the Martic Township Rail Trail Advisory Committee.
The mini-grant enabled the township to double the parking capacity at the trailhead. It also helped finance the addition of a pavilion area along with landscaping improvements at the site.
The expanded parking area has alleviated overflow conditions at the popular trailhead. Visitors with trailers now have the space to turn around safely as well.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources supports the Susquehanna Riverlands Conservation Landscape with funding from the Environmental Stewardship Fund.
The conservation landscapes are eight regions in Pennsylvania that work collaboratively to take on the challenges of effective land use planning, investment, civic engagement, and revitalization.

First Grants Announced from the People, Parks and Community Foundation
Congratulations to our partners at the People, Parks and Community Foundation! The foundation recently announced its first round of grant awards to support parks and recreation in Pennsylvania.
The awards went to six projects and totaled $112,000.
Among the projects are a new pocket park in the City of Johnstown, an ADA-compliant walking trail in Bedford Borough, and a youth garden in Delaware County.
“These first awards are proof of the power of partnership,” said Tim Herd, president of the foundation. “Every one of these projects will touch lives, create connections, and strengthen communities. We’re excited for what’s ahead—and deeply grateful to everyone who believes in this mission with us.”

Funding Opportunity: PA Water Trails Mini-Grants
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is accepting applications for PA Water Trails Mini-Grants.
Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organizations and public entities, such as a county, municipality, or municipal agency. All projects must occur on or for a designated Pennsylvania Water Trail.
Applicants can request up to $7,000. Proposals must include a 1:1 match (cash, in-kind, or a combination). The application deadline is 5:00 PM on Friday, October 31.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources supports the mini-grants with funding from the Environmental Stewardship Fund.

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