PENFIELD – Upcoming programs have been announced for July 15-20 at the Parker Dam State Park.
Friday, July 15
Habitats at Home
Guest – Makayla Whaling
11 a.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
Wildlife needs food, water, and a safe home. Learn fun and easy ways to improve your backyard habitat. Planting a garden is a great way to improve wildlife habitats, so native plants will be discussed. There will be crafts, activities, and useful handouts.
The Snake Legends of Parker Dam
6 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
Many legends surround the people and wildlife of Parker Dam, but perhaps none are as wide-spread as those of snakes. Come learn the truth about what species of snakes inhabit the park, how they live and survive with their adaptations, and how nearly all the stories you’ve heard are false—really, we’ll prove it. No worries…no live snakes.
Our Forest History
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
The PA forest looks very different than when the first settlers arrived. Learn about the many uses of the forest over the years and how it has changed to what we now know.
Saturday, July 16
Morning Hike Around the Lake
9 a.m. – Campground Host Site (No. 107)
We will walk a loop around Parker Lake, sharing the beauty and stories of the natural resources to be found there.
Bird-friendly Coffee
10 a.m. – Beach House
Enjoy a cup of ‘shade-grown’ coffee (bring a mug if possible). Learn about the benefits of seeking out environmentally-friendly coffee and how it supports wildlife found here.
Pennsylvania’s Elk Herd
2 p.m. – Beach House steps
Discover the history of this animal found throughout portions of the PA Wilds. Where did the elk come from? Is the herd in danger? Can you hunt PA elk? Find out the answers to these questions and more.
Backpacking 101
4 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
If you have ever thought about trying it but don’t know how to get started, come learn about the equipment, planning, and safety that you should consider. We’ll practice with the equipment and give tips to be successful.
Leave It to Beavers
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
They are one of the most popular wildlife species to view in the wild, even though humans once drove them to the brink of extinction. Come watch as scientists study the beavers to see what they can teach us.
Sunday, July 17
Tea and Talk
7 p.m. – Beach House steps
Bring your own cup or mug (for hot beverages) and try some sweet fern/mountain mint tea grown right here in the park. Talk subjects are always open for discussion…come with some idea of what you’d like to know more about, learn, or share. Sunday evening Tea and Talk has been going on for many years; come be a part of the tradition.
Tuesday, July 19
Full Moon Paddle
8:30 p.m. – behind Beach House
NOTE: There is a $3 fee for all participants of this program.
What better way to view the full moon than to do so in a kayak on a quiet evening lake. A limited number of kayaks are available. Reserve a kayak by stopping in or contacting the Park Office 814-765-0630.
Wednesday, July 20
Archery Basics
6 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
Come and learn the basics of archery, along with range rules and safety procedures. Practice the techniques that will make you a more consistent archer. Bows have a 15-25 pound pull; very small archers may have difficulty.