To increase public knowledge of the 12-county region and highlight current progress and future plans, Gov. Rendell this week announced a Pennsylvania Wilds Conference will be held September 13-14 in Williamsport.

“Our efforts to bring more people to the Pennsylvania Wilds so they can enjoy great outdoor experiences are really paying off, with increased hotel occupancy in the region; the start up of new businesses; and the revitalization of communities,” Gov. Rendell said. “This conference is the first large-scale gathering of elected officials, planners, downtown managers, business owners, recreation providers and conservation organizations in the 12-county region to celebrate successes and look to the future of the initiative.

“We want continue to explore how to make the Pennsylvania Wilds a top destination; take advantage of the effort as an economic development tool; and remain sensitive to protecting the region’s rich and diverse natural assets,” the Governor added.

The Pennsylvania Wilds Conference, which will be held at the historic Genetti Hotel in Williamsport, will use presentations, discussions and panels to showcase the successes of the initiative to date; educate partners and stakeholders about available tools, resources, and best practices; and foster a heightened regional identity and vision.

General sessions will be offered over the two days, as well as three specific tracks: Recreation and Stewardship, Community Planning and Rural Issues, and Business and Economic Development.

Nationally recognized speakers, Ed McMahon of the Urban Land Institute and Ted Eubanks of Fermata, Inc., will provide powerful insight and thoughtful discussion concerning the 12-county region.

In addition, leaders from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Department of Community and Economic Development will offer expertise relating to recreation, natural resources protection, planning, business development, technical assistance, and tourism. DCNR Secretary Michael DiBerardinis and DCED Secretary Dennis Yablonsky are scheduled speakers.

The Pennsylvania Wilds initiative is a program designed to encourage the growth of tourism and related businesses in northcentral Pennsylvania. Its goal is to enhance the visitor experiences in this region, while protecting and conserving the land’s treasured natural resources.

The Pennsylvania Wilds covers Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Forest, Jefferson, Lycoming, McKean, Potter, Tioga and Warren counties. It includes 29 state parks and 1.5 million acres of state forest and game lands, the Allegheny National Forest, Pine Creek Gorge, the largest elk herd in the northeast United States and the darkest nighttime skies at Cherry Springs State Park.

The conference, which costs $75 to attend, is being coordinated by the Pennsylvania Recreation and Parks Society. For more information, contact PRPS at 814-234-4272 or visit the Pennsylvania Wilds Conference webpage.

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8/3/2007