Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Ellen Ferretti Tuesday announced the department will hold three public meetings across the state to collect comments on a draft of Pennsylvania’s five-year Outdoor Recreation Plan which guides outdoor recreation programs, policies and projects.

“Our outdoor recreation plan analyzes the recreation needs of Pennsylvanians, including challenges, opportunities and trends,” Ferretti said.  “It also outlines a strategy to address Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation future with 20 recommendations and more than 80 action items. We’d like to know from participants if we’re on the right track.”

The following are the dates and locations for the public meetings:

-- October 7, 5 to 7:30 p.m.: hosted by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society  at its headquarters, 100 North 20th Street, first floor town hall, Philadelphia. Register by calling 215-988-1698.

-- October 8, 5 to 7:30 p.m.: hosted by Dauphin County Parks and Recreation at the Centennial Barn at Fort Hunter Park, 5300 North Front Street, Harrisburg.  Register by sending an email to: mbaratucci@dauphinc.org.

-- October 9, 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.: hosted by the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy at Schenley Park Skating Ring, Overlook Drive, Pittsburgh. Event begins with a disc golf demonstration. Register by sending email to Heather Sage at: hsage@pittsburghparks.org.

All sessions will begin with a brief overview at 5:30 p.m., followed by an open house with different stations where participants can learn more and provide feedback.

Registration is requested for all events.  Light refreshments are included.

Public comment will be accepted on the website from October 6-31.

The completed plan keeps Pennsylvania eligible for federal Land and Water Conservation funding.

More information, visit the PA Outdoor Recreation Plan website.

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