Newsletter of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
February 18, 2026
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Governor Shapiro’s Proposed Budget Strengthens Pennsylvania’s Natural Legacy |
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Governor Josh Shapiro has presented his 2026–27 budget proposal to the General Assembly and the people of Pennsylvania — building on three years of historic progress by continuing to do what’s working across the Commonwealth to lower costs, create economic growth, strengthen public safety, support students, and continue Pennsylvania’s rise.
The Governor’s proposed budget places a special emphasis on affordability, cutting costs for Pennsylvanians; investing in public safety; workforce development; and spurring economic development.
Under the proposal, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) would receive about $665 million, about a 2 percent increase.
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| Conestoga River Named Pennsylvania’s 2026 River of the Year |
The Conestoga flows for more than 61 miles, from its headwaters in Berks County down to the Susquehanna River below the Safe Harbor Dam — threading past historic covered bridges, working farms, and small towns.
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| $1.4 Million Invested to Expand and Improve ATV Trails Across Pennsylvania |
Funding supports four projects statewide – strengthening rural economies and enhancing Pennsylvania’s $19 billion outdoor recreation industry.
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| Shapiro-Davis Administration Invests $500,000 to Support Trail Project in Easton |
Easton Highline will connect downtown to regional trails, add green space, and support local businesses.
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Eastern bluebirds are early nesters. Now is a great time to place new nest boxes, as well as clean and repair any existing boxes.
Providing bluebirds a safe nesting place is a fun and interesting way to help these important, native birds.
Instructions to make your own nesting box are available from the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
Here are some tips to help your bluebird nesting box be a success:
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- Place nesting boxes in open areas with some trees and shrubs for bluebirds to perch in.
- Plant native plants to help attract bluebirds and provide them with both nutritious food sources and shelter.
- Provide a bird bath or fountain with a perch nearby.
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Clean out nest boxes each February and after chicks fledge to encourage multiple broods.
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Winter offers a great opportunity to spot birds as they migrate and get ready for the next nesting season.
Check out these upcoming birding events at state parks:
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Celebrate America's 250th and discover Pennsylvania’s geological history at the Bureau of Geological Survey's America250PA Bedrock of a New Nation exhibit — now on display at the Middletown office (3240 Schoolhouse Road, Middletown, PA 17057).
Learn more about the Bureau of Geological Survey on our website.
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Josh Shapiro, Governor | Cindy Adams Dunn, Secretary
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
www.pa.gov/dcnr
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