PENFIELD – Programs have been announced for Aug. 15-29 at the Parker Dam State Park.
Wednesday, Aug. 15
Broom-making 101:
10 a.m. – Pavilion 6
Learn how corn brooms were made years ago during this amateur demonstration.
Friday, Aug. 17
Where Have All the Bats Gone?:
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
Whether you like them or not, many folks have noticed the sharp decline in bat populations over the last decade. Learn what has caused the population to drop as much as 99 to 100 percent in some areas.
Saturday, Aug. 18
Running with Recycling:
2 p.m. – Beach
Have you ever played freeze tag? But how does this relate to recycling? If you are curious to find out, come to the beach for a fun filled activity that will bring to light some of the road blocks that stop recyclables from reaching their destination!
Snakes in Pennsylvania, Guest-WCO McKenrick, PFBC:
7 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
Myths about snakes have earned them bad reputations. Put aside those fears and misgivings, as the expert explains the truths about snakes. There will be live critters for you to see how humans can continue to co-exist peacefully alongside of snakes where their habitats may overlap.
Thursday, Aug. 23
Sustainability Fair:
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Day Use Area, near Beach House
Waiting for a greener and more sustainable world? Come, see, and participate in the amazing advances that are happening. From the newest in solar technology, to local foods, to electric cars, to DIY projects and practices, to educational games, there will be something to interest everyone.
Friday, Aug. 24
History of Elk in PA:
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
How did we get elk in Pennsylvania? Learn the interesting details that resulted in the large elk herd we have today.
Saturday, Aug. 25
Kayak Basics:
10 a.m. – behind Beach House
Note: this program has a $3 fee; pre-registration required.
Learn the basics and enjoyment of kayaking during this intro level program. A limited number of kayaks will be available, including tandems. Register at the Park Office, or by calling (814) 765-0630.
Pennsylvania Elk, Guest-Jeremy Banfield, PGC Biologist:
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
Guest speaker and elk biologist with the PA Game Commission, Jeremy Banfield will give a presentation of the status of our elk herd in Pennsylvania. If you have questions about elk—this is the guy to talk to.
Sunday, Aug. 26
Tea and Talk:
7 p.m. – Beach House steps
Bring your own cup to sample some sweet fern/mountain mint tea grown right here in the park. Talk is whatever interests you about the environment. We will discuss solar energy a bit as well. The Sunday evening tea and talk has been going on for many years—come be a part of the tradition.
Wednesday, Aug. 29
Through the Seasons Tour: PPFF Public Reception
5 p.m. – 7 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
The winning photos of the 2017 PPFF (Pennsylvania Parks & Forests Foundation) photo contest will be on display in the EEC from today until September 29, 2018 for your viewing enjoyment. Come be one of the first to see them on display here at the park during this reception.
*You can keep up on what is happening at the park by liking “Parker Dam State Park” on Facebook; and, you can find more information about state park programs and special events by logging on to the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks’ Web site at www.VisitPAParks.com, and clicking on “Events.”
