Wildlife For Everyone Foundation Receives DCNR Grant For Education Project At Tom Ridge Wetlands In Centre County

The Wildlife for Everyone Foundation tom ridge wetlands recently  received a $250,000 Recreation and Conservation grant from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for the continued development of the education elements of the Tom Ridge Wetlands & Wildlife Center in Huston Township, Centre County. 

The first phase of the project will feature an ADA accessible boardwalk trail, observation areas, accessible fishing platform, pavilion, restrooms, parking area and interpretive signage. 

The DCNR funding builds on the $250,000 grant received from the Department of Community and Economic Development in 2018. Levine Engineering, LLC, Altoona, is providing project management services.

The wetlands natural area will present recreational opportunities for all persons regardless of physical limitation. 

Activities like trail walking or wheeling, wildlife viewing, fishing, birding, photography and picnicking will draw visitors to the wetlands to connect  with nature and experience the restorative benefits that it offers. 

There will be full accessibility, from the parking lot to every element of the natural area. Changing interpretive signage will present educational opportunities to learn about the various ecosystems that exist on the property. 

Stream restoration of Bald Eagle Creek, which borders the property, was completed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service in July. The restoration of 600 feet of the creek improved fish habitat where the accessible fishing platform will be constructed and reduced bank erosion. 

“This project is important for a number of reasons,” said Susan Hawthorne, Executive Director of the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation. “The ADA accessible trails will mean everyone, regardless of age or physical limitation, will be able to enjoy the restorative qualities nature offers in the wetlands. 

“Whether a person wants to hike, fish from the pier, sit and relax in a serene setting, bird and nature watch, or take pictures of wildlife, the wetlands natural area will offer all of this and more. At the same time, these valuable wetlands are being cared for and conserved for the wildlife which depends upon them,” adds Hawthorne. 

For more information on programs, initiatives, upcoming events and how you can get involved, visit the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation website.

Related Article:

Wildlife For Everyone Foundation Now Accepting Applications For Student Scholarships
[Posted: November 21, 2019]  www.PaEnvironmentDigest.com