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Recreation for all.

Making Trails More Sustainable
Before and after composite of trail and stream restoration work on the Paxtang Parkway project
The frequency and severity of major storm events have become threats to trail infrastructure nationwide.
Traditional trail-building methods often fall short in the face of heavy rainfall, flooding, and erosion. This damage can lead to costly repairs and environmental damage.
The Rails to Trails Conservancy recently explored these issues in their webinar, “Trails in the Age of Climate Change: Disaster Recovery.”
The webinar described the need for greater attention and resources during trail planning and design. A better understanding of environmental conditions around a proposed trail will help allow for trail designs that anticipate future severe weather impacts.
Several Pennsylvania trails have already taken this approach. The Paxtang Parkway project in Dauphin County and the Hanover Trolley Trail in York County are both good examples. Each has ongoing, multi-phase work aimed at restoring adjacent streams while building and rehabilitating trails.
Funding these projects can be a challenge. To begin, consider a restoration plan for waterways near your trail. These plans help identify ways to address flooding, erosion, and other stormwater impacts.
Multiple state agencies offer funding to help with stream restoration and trail rehabilitation. Some programs to explore include:
A good place to start discussing these funding sources for your trail projects? Contact your DCNR Bureau of Recreation and Conservation regional advisor.
Rails to Trails Conservancy webinar titled Trails in the Age of Climate Change

Reminder: Register Now for Annual DCNR Grant Workshop

DCNR’s annual grant workshop for recreation and conservation projects is coming up on Thursday, November 7.
Those interested in applying for DCNR grants in 2025 are strongly encouraged to attend this virtual workshop.
Registration is free. Anyone who wants to attend can sign up on the DCNR Events Calendar.
Attendees need to pre-register to receive workshop materials.
Infographic promoting open registration for DCNR's annual grant workshop

Last Call for Fall ATV/Snowmobile Applications
For those seeking funds for all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and snowmobile projects, the fall round of applications is almost over. The deadline is less than two weeks away, on Monday, September 30.
Those wishing to apply should do so using DCNR’s Grants Customer Service Portal.
ATV and snowmobile grants are funded through the fees riders pay when they register their vehicles. The grants support development of publicly accessible ATV and snowmobile trails and facilities.
two riders on ATVs on a trail snowmobile and rider driving on snow

Funding Opportunity: Water Trail Mini-Grants Now Available
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) recently announced the opening of the 2024 PA Water Trails Mini-Grant cycle.
All projects must occur on or for a designated Pennsylvania Water Trail.
Those interested in applying should attend a virtual pre-application meeting at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 23. Registration is not required.
Applications are due by 5:00 PM on Friday, November 1.

Funding Opportunity: Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grants Program
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Chesapeake Bay Program partnership, is accepting proposals for Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction grants.
Projects should accelerate the rate and scale of water quality improvements in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed through the voluntary implementation of best management practices.
All proposals must be submitted no later than noon on Tuesday, November 5.
Those interested in applying are strongly encouraged to schedule a consultation with NFWF program staff before submitting an application.

DCNR Welcomes Drew Kline

Drew Kline headshot portrait
The DCNR Bureau of Recreation and Conservation welcomes Drew Kline to the Land Conservation and Stewardship Section.
Drew graduated from Penn State with a degree in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Management. Before coming to DCNR, he worked for the Schuylkill County Parks and Recreation Department. He served as the supervisor there for the last eight years.
During his time at Schuylkill County, Drew managed two county parks and several DCNR grant projects.
Drew enjoys all things outdoors including hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing. He also loves sports, golfing, and coaching his son’s baseball team.

Dates to Remember
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