PENFIELD – Officials at the Parker Dam State Park have announced the following program schedule for April 11-19.
April 11
Springtime Treasures
8 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
The puddles and ponds that are often only present during the spring are known as seasonal pools. Many species of frogs and salamanders, some threatened or endangered, rely on these habitat types for reproduction. Watch and learn about changes affecting these special places, and find out how you can help to protect them.
April 12
Fly Fishing Basics
3 p.m. – Field Above Cabin Road
Have you used a spinning rod in the past and feel like trying something new? Maybe you’ve never fished before, but always wanted to learn how? Come join the Naturalist as we practice basic knots and fly casting.
Salamander Scramble
6 p.m. – Campground Host Site 107
Check out just about any tiny pond, or even a big puddle, this time of the year and you will often find those familiar spring sights– jelly-like egg masses, tadpoles, and even salamanders. Frogs and salamanders use these seasonal pools, or vernal ponds, as a habitat for reproduction. Come along and learn more as we look for these amphibious creatures in just such a habitat. Be sure to wear clothes that can get a little wet/muddy, and if you have shoes or boots (not sandals) that can get wet and muddy– please wear them.
April 18
Owl Prowl
8 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
They are the silent hunters of the night, but when they do call, can you identify the species? Learn about the owls found in Pennsylvania and try your hand at calling to these birds of prey to see if any of the park’s owls respond.
April 19
Traveling Minstrels:
8 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
Every year as winter dwindles, we are presented with nature’s music as our feathered friends make their journey back north. Join us at the amphitheater as we learn all about these splendid migratory species.
Parker Dam’s Annual Woodsy Owl Volunteer Weekend is scheduled for April 25-27. On April 25, campsites will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors will not be charged the normal overnight camping fee in agreement that they participate in both of the Saturday volunteer work sessions that will be used to spruce up the park in anticipation of the upcoming summer season.
Past work has included leaf raking, mulching, flowerbed improvements, tree planting, cleaning fire rings, trail clearing, and more. Scouts and other organized groups are welcome- please contact the Park Office. Also, please contact the Park Office for more information.
