Artwork depicting a McKean County bobcat is featured on the newest commemorative tag now available to residents and visitors who would like to show their support for the 12-county northcentral region known as the Pennsylvania Wilds.

Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation, the sale of this second in a series tag is designed to generate revenue and raise awareness of the more than 1.5 million acres of state forest and game lands, 27 state parks and the darkest skies in the eastern United States in the Pennsylvania Wilds.

"These tags are a great way for everyone to show support for our natural systems and the beautiful and wild area in the northcentral region that's becoming a growing destination for outdoor recreationists," Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Michael DiBerardinis said. "The donation supports programs and improvements in the Pennsylvania Wilds, making the commonwealth a better place to live, work and enjoy."

The tags will be sold for a minimum $5 donation at the 17 park and 8 forest district offices located in the Pennsylvania Wilds, or are available from PPFF.

The bobcat depicted on the tag is a colored-pencil sketch drawn from an original photograph of a McKean County bobcat taken by Rocky Holland of Eagle-Eye Photography. Cameron County artist Nelson Haas, a retired state trooper and avid outdoorsman, donated the work that has been converted into the tags.

A portion of the money raised will be used for improvements and other projects in state parks and forests. PPFF is statewide nonprofit organization committed to the protection, promotion and enhancement of state parks and forestland.

"This is an ongoing program, so collectors can look for new tags each year," PPFF President Marci Mowery said. "The tag program not only provides a way for people to show their support for their Pennsylvania natural heritage, but also celebrates the talented artists found in the state."

The Pennsylvania Wilds tag is sponsored by Woolrich, well known maker of sportswear, blankets, accessories and home furnishings inspired by the outdoor lifestyle in Woolrich, Clinton County.

"Woolrich is delighted to be part of this conservation effort in a region so close to our company's own heritage," said Woolrich Director of Marketing and Media Timothy Joseph. "Woolrich's relationship with the people and the wild areas of Pennsylvania's northern woodlands stretches back almost two centuries. Like the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation, we believe in the importance of natural areas and public land for today, as well as for future generations. We are proud to work with PPFF and DCNR as partners in this important initiative."

The first tag in the park series was issued in March and depicts an original watercolor of Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Cumberland County. It is available at parks statewide.

For details, visit the Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Tag Program webpage.

9/1/2006