News for Immediate Release:
July 14, 2022
Media contact:
Tali MacArthur, PEC, 570-285-8013
PEC announces 2022 Pennsylvania Water Trail Mini-Grant Awards
Luzerne – The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 Pennsylvania Water Trail Mini-Grants. These grants are awarded on a competitive basis.
The Pennsylvania Water Trail Program is administered by PEC in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the National Parks Service and serves to promote and maintain the Pennsylvania Water Trails Program’s network of creeks and river. Projects awarded funding advance program goals such as creating recreational opportunities for all Pennsylvanians on Water Trails; developing trails that support sustainable use of natural resources; increasing physical and psychological access to and use of Water Trails; linking diverse community members with accessible on-water paddling experiences, improving the paddling experience through education, signage, and mapping, and connecting water trails to land trails or to other culturally significant community assets. All projects must occur on or for a designated Pennsylvania Water Trail (view map here).
The Pennsylvania Water Trail Partnership along with all of the Water Trail Managers work to achieve a common vision that includes:
- Developing more water trails in Pennsylvania
- Strengthening connections between existing water trails to promote a system of trails
- Marketing and promoting Pennsylvania water trails more effectively
- Sharing technical assistance, tools and resources among local managers for long- term maintenance, stewardship, and sustainable and equitable access
- Promoting national recognition of Pennsylvania’s water trails
- Promoting water trails as a means to enhance citizen stewardship of local water resources
PEC has administered the PA Water Trail Mini-Grant program since 2017. Mini-grant funding is financed in part by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.
2022 PA Water Trail Program Mini-Grantees:
Delaware Riverkeeper Network for the Paddle, Hike, and Enjoy the Tidal Delaware River Water Trail project which will introduce new users to the beauty and wonder of the tidal Delaware River water trail and encourage repeat visits for recreation along the water trail.
Friends of the Riverfront for new Three Rivers Water Trail Signage with updated rules, reminders to always wear a life jacket, and other paddle safety information for paddlers of all levels.
Conestoga River Club for a Water Trail Guidebook and other informational and educational materials.
French Creek Valley Conservancy for the French Creek Boat Launch Improvement Project- Phase Two including a new concrete ramp launch designed for easy access, a new a parking area (including designated handicapped parking), and signage.
Cochranton Borough for Connectivity Enhancements to Cochranton Landing Along French Creek Water Trail including a bicycle rack; outdoor interpretive panel about how French Creek has shaped local history; a historical marker for “McFate Archaeological Site;” a Monofilament Recycling Bin; and other improvements to Cochranton Landing.
Venango Borough for the Karl Gerdon Park Improvement Project including developing new access to French Creek, a permanent restroom facility, and ADA access.
Congratulations to these organizations whose projects will improve access, awareness, and connections for communities to their local Pennsylvania Water Trail.
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