Trump to eliminate U.S. Forest Service research, and close four facilities in Pennsylvania
The President’s budget eliminates funding for the agency’s research, and a USDA reorganization plan closes 57 of 77 Forest Service research sites.
Recreation
Incoming fracking at Ohio wildlife area met with warnings of heavy truck traffic and habitat loss
A state commission is considering proposals to drill under most of the Egypt Valley Wildlife Area in southeastern Ohio.
Pittsburgh-area conservation projects get grants to help wildlife, climate
A New York-based conservation group is funding projects to preserve green space in the Pittsburgh area, as part of an effort to protect the Appalachian corridor.
Pennsylvania has a brand new state park — and this one is underground
Laurel Caverns State Park in Fayette County is the first of its kind in Pennsylvania.
Pittsburgh’s deer management program sees progress, challenges and a long road ahead
Pittsburgh has been using hunters and targeted harvesting to cull deer from its parks since 2023. The results have fluctuated.
Rock hunting helps a woman in addiction recovery
Joyce Fetrow said rocks inspire her to keep on track with her sobriety.
Pine Creek Rail Trail named Pa.’s Trail of the Year
The 62-mile trail in Tioga and Lycoming counties traces the Pine Creek Gorge, known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
Dancing Down the Slopes to the Beat of His Own Drummer
This great-grandfather is keeping the lost art of ski ballet alive. And having a really good time doing it.
A new initiative will maintain Pittsburgh’s riverfront trails and parks
UpKeep will tend to routine care and maintenance of Pittsburgh's 15-mile network of riverfront parks and trails.
What’s special about the Conestoga, Pa.’s 2026 River of the Year
The Conestoga River flows through downtown Lancaster, suburbs and farmland. Polluted by sewage and agricultural runoff, the river is also popular for recreation.
