PENFIELD – Officials at the Parker Dam State Park have announced the programs for September.
Wednesday, Sept. 10
Morning Kayak Tour
7 a.m. – Beach House
NOTE: There is a $3 fee for all participants of this program.
Experience kayaking Parker Lake in the morning calm. Learn the basics of kayaking, the history of the lake, and more. If the water is warmer than the morning air, the water spirits may quietly dance around us. Limited number of kayaks available- pre-registration recommended. Contact the Park Office at 814-765-0630 to pre-register.
Natural Cleaners
6 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
Why go natural and avoid commercial cleaners? Participants will learn more about what is toxic and harmful in many store-bought cleaners. Then they will discover how to make their own natural cleaners to use at home. You may be surprised at how well these cleaners work, and in some cases- work better, for your cleaning needs.
Sunday, Sept. 14
Kayak Basics
4 p.m.- Beach House
NOTE: There is a $3 fee for all participants of this program.
Learn what type of kayak you would be comfortable in, how to prepare for a day on the water, and most important– how to get in, out and get around on the water. Limited number of kayaks available- pre-registration recommended. Contact the Park Office at 814-765-0630 to pre-register.
Wednesday, Sept. 17
Homemade Soap Making
6 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
NOTE: Due to materials needed, there is a $3 fee and all participants must pre-register.
Natural soap making is a traditional craft using natural products that (once finished) do not harm our health or our environment. Join us as we discuss and demonstrate the process of soap making in the traditional way. Participants will learn how to make their own soap and discover which of the various ingredients may be beneficial to them. Contact the Park Office at 814-765-0630 to get more information or to pre-register.
Thursday, Sept. 18
What’s That Tree?
6 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
There are a great many trees in the forest. Learn about some of the common ones and how you can easily identify them. If you have a leaf collection that is due, this will be a great opportunity to see a variety of species; and, one of the only times that you will have permission to take leaves from any of the trees in the park.
Saturday, Sept. 20
Reclaiming the Alleghenies
8 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
Shown in its entirety (about 1.5 hours), this video discusses the elk that inhabit the rugged mountains of the PA elk range. You will learn of their history in the state, as well as how wildlife managers work to balance the needs of the elk and of the humans– both local and visitors.
Wednesday, Sept. 24
Forest Farming– Mushrooms
6 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
Forest farming is a strategy that can help to minimize impacts to the surrounding landscape and forests. Participants will learn about common crops and growing methods for this type of sustainable farming. Specifically, participants will learn how to grow their own mushrooms, as the process of inoculating logs with Shitake mushroom spawn is demonstrated.