The DCNR Conservation and Natural Resources Advisory Council is scheduled to meet July 27 where DCNR staff will present updates on the agency’s new ’22-23 budget; unveil a new e-bike policy for state park and forest riding; and provide details on revenue generation, challenges and opportunities of state park concessionaires--from small food stands and equipment rentals to swimming pools and ski resorts. 

The Bureau of Forestry staff will provide an update on the development of their new strategic plan.  Read more here.

State Budget

The 2022-23 budget passed by the Senate and House and signed by Gov. Wolf includes a significant new bipartisan investment in conservation, outdoor recreation, clean water and preservation.

The budget allocates $696 million – the largest new investment in conservation and environmental protection in the last 15 years – as follows:

-- $100 million for state park and forest infrastructure, and conservation and recreation projects in communities

-- $56 million for three new state parks and a new motorized recreation area, and to expand DCNR’s scientific capability around carbon capture and storage

-- $220 million to a newly created Clean Streams Fund, with a 4% portion for DCNR’s Keystone Tree Fund

-- $320 million to Commonwealth Financing Authority for water, sewer, flood, and high hazard dam projects

DCNR’s total budget of about $673 million allows the agency to continue anchoring Pennsylvania’s growing outdoor recreation economy and provide essential management and visitor services.

Importantly, this budget adds 31 staff positions, bolstering efforts for public contact and safety, and climate change adaptation through carbon capture and storage.

Ridley Creek State Park Infrastructure Spotlight

CNRAC member Gary Kris highlights infrastructure at Ridley Creek State Park in Delaware County.

“My family's favorite State Park is Ridley Creek State Park in Media, Delaware County. 

“For more than 30 years, we've been walking the dogs, taking family hikes and bike rides, and even participating in a few educational visits--all have created cherished memories.

“With more than 2,600 acres bisected by Ridley Creek, the park has rolling hills, lots of wildlife, and an endless variety of trails.  The Hunting Hill Mansion and Gardens are interesting to explore, and we are looking forward to potential upgrades and improvements with the recent budget announcement. 

“A very nice addition next to the park is the Tyler Arboretum. Having this much accessible “nature” within 25 minutes of home is a serious lifestyle draw to southeastern Pennsylvania.

“In 2019, my daughter and her husband used the park for their engagement photography, so now the park holds an even more unique place in our hearts.

“Nearly three dozen projects sit on Ridley Creek’s infrastructure improvement list, from mansion upgrades and renovations, to sewer systems repairs, to road paving.

“Thankfully, included in the newly passed ’22-’23 budget, is $75 million allotted to state parks and forest infrastructure, of which Ridley Creek will get a portion to tackle significant road paving projects in the park.”

Public Comment

There will be two opportunities for public comment at the meeting.  If you are interested in presenting comments, please advise by email to kharris@bridgeconsultingcorp.com  no later than 5 p.m. on July 26. 

You can provide comments at the beginning of the meeting or at the end of the meeting.  You may also provide comments or questions after the meeting by emailing the same address or through the Council's webpage.

The meeting will be held in Room 105 of the Rachel Carson Building starting at 10:00 a.m.  Click Here to join the meeting online via WebEx.

For more information and available handouts, visit DCNR's Conservation and Natural Resources Advisory Council webpage.

Related Article:

-- Final State Budget Includes Nearly $700 Million In Funding To Support Local And State Environmental, Recreation Infrastructure Projects!

[Posted: July 18, 2022]

7/25/2022