PENFIELD – Officials at the Parker Dam State Park have announced programs for Aug. 21-25.
Thursday, Aug. 21
Trail of New Giants Hike
9 a.m. – Lou and Helen Adams CCC Museum
The Trail of New Giants came into existence after the 1985 tornado basically destroyed the original “Trail of Giants”. Discover what this “Giants” thing is and take in the view from the vista. Bring a water bottle and the guide will bring the snacks.
Friday, Aug. 22
101 Years of PA Elk
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
The viewing season for the elk rut is just beginning. Visitors will be coming for the next couple of months to see wild elk throughout their PA range. Come discover more about how elk live, survive, and coexist in Pennsylvania. It’s now 101 years since the elk have returned; isn’t it time you learned more about their extensive history?
Saturday, Aug. 23
Pennsylvania Forest History
3 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
The history of Pennsylvania’s forest has seen a lot of change. The Commonwealth’s economy has often changed right along with the forest. Learn from a past PA State Forester about this extensive past, from before European settlers, to our current forest.
History Walk
5 p.m. – Beach House steps
From beaver dams, to splash dams, to a CCC-built dam, both the water features and the surrounding forest of the Parker Dam area are far different from what the area’s first visitors would have seen. We will cross the spillway rocks on our journey, please wear appropriate footwear.
Chronic Wasting Disease
Guest Jeremy Banfield, Pennsylvania Game Commission
8 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
A Pennsylvania Game Commission biologist will explain what this disease is and what is being done to halt its spread. A fatal disease, CWD affects the brain and nervous system of deer, elk, and moose. Learn more about this disease that has many wildlife officials and hunters concerned about the future of the Keystone State’s deer and elk populations.
Sunday, Aug. 24
Water Critters
3 p.m. – Beach
Discover what cool things the critters that live in the water can do by trying to do the same. We will be getting in the water so please dress accordingly. Meet at the beach steps in front of the Beach House.
Tea and Talk
7 p.m. – Beach House
Come on out and bring your own mug to enjoy a cup of sweet fern/mountain mint tea, gathered right here in the park. The talk will consist of teas, a few trees, and whatever else comes to your inquiring mind.
Monday, Aug. 25
Saturn, Mars, and More
8 p.m. – Bench near the CCC Museum
The dark of the moon should provide us with some prime viewing of some planets and stars. Try out the park’s new Dobsonian telescopes, if the weather cooperates, to view Saturn, Mars, and other objects in space.
