October 7, 2026

Local and state officials recently came together to celebrate the Pine Creek Rail Trail, Pennsylvania’s 2026 Trail of the Year.

“This recognition elevates the exceptional outdoor experiences found along this trail throughout the Pennsylvania Wilds,” said Cindy Adams Dunn, Secretary for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

The Pine Creek Rail Trail traces a historic corridor first used by the Iroquois Nation. It was developed as a railroad in the late 19th century.

After rail service ended in 1988, the corridor transformed again—into a 62-mile non-motorized trail. The trail stretches from Jersey Shore to Wellsboro Junction.

Today, this nationally recognized trail attracts more than 44,000 users annually and generates more than $5 million in local economic impact.

Last year, the Pine Creek Rail Trail Extension, also known as the Marsh Creek Greenway, closed a critical 3.2-mile gap. It connected the trail’s former northern end directly to downtown Wellsboro.

DCNR, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Tioga County, and volunteers worked together to complete the project. DCNR provided $3.1 million to support the extension.

For 20 years, the Wildlife Leadership Academy has empowered high school youth across Pennsylvania to become community conservation leaders. Since 2007, nearly 1,300 youth have participated in the Academy’s unique model of hands-on education, leadership development, and long-term mentorship.

The experience begins with an intensive summer field school where students learn directly from wildlife and fisheries professionals, researchers, conservation educators, and other experts.

“Students leave with more than knowledge of Pennsylvania’s natural resources,” said Sara Mueller, the Academy’s executive director. “They gain the skills and confidence to share what they have learned and inspire others to take action.”

Continued staff mentorship transforms the field school into sustained impact. After field school, students serve nine months as Conservation Ambassadors. They complete education, service, media, creative arts, and outdoor mentorship projects in their communities.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has helped fund the Academy since 2017. DCNR grants have expanded programming to include beginner and advanced training weekends and created more opportunities for young people to build their conservation knowledge and leadership skills.

DCNR grants to support the Academy come from the Environmental Stewardship Fund.

Waterway projects are getting a boost with the opening of two grants to support water-based recreation.

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is accepting applications for its Boating Facility Grant Program. Applications will be accepted through December 1.

Eligible projects include boat ramps, courtesy docks, restrooms, access roads, parking areas, signage, aquatic invasive species prevention, and other improvements that benefit boaters at public access sites.

Applicants are encouraged to incorporate universal design and accessibility features and must meet relevant Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

For this round of the grant program, the PFBC has established three focus areas: projects in Lancaster County, projects that provide access to the Lehigh River, and projects on officially designated Pennsylvania Water Trails.

Alongside these grants, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) recently announced the opening of the 2026 PA Water Trail Mini-Grants Program.

Proposed projects must advance program goals such as:

Applications are due November 4.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) recently announced that it is accepting letters of interest and resumes for four voluntary positions that will be opening on the 2027 Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee (PTAC).

DCNR is seeking volunteers to represent each of the following user groups:

PTAC represents both motorized and non-motorized trail users. The 20-member committee advises the Commonwealth on the use of state and federal trail funding.

Selected candidates will serve a three-year term starting January 1, 2027.

Letters of interest and resumes are due by October 31. They must be submitted via email to RA-explorepatrails@pa.gov.

For more information, visit the Trails Advisory Committee website.