Gov. Tom Corbett pushed off from Tidioute on Monday morning for a three-day kayak trip down the Allegheny River to promote Pennsylvania's natural resources and recreational opportunities.
"Pennsylvania is a vast state with an abundance of scenic landscapes," Corbett said in a press release. "There are many ways to see Pennsylvania and, for the second year in a row, I will get to experience the beauty of our commonwealth from our rivers."
Joining Corbett were First Lady Susan Corbett and representatives of the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Department of Environmental Protection.
Article Photos
Kayak trip
Gov. Tom Corbett paddles down the Allegheny River as part of a three-day kayak tour through western Pennsylvania on Monday.
"I think it's wonderful that the governor came up to Warren County, Forest County to start his kayaking trips in the state of Pennsylvania. We are thrilled to have him here," State Rep. Kathy Rapp (R-65) said. "It's always great when the governor sees a legislative district."
Allegheny National Forest Supervisor Erin Connelly said a number of different agencies collaborate to promote tourism in the 513,000 acres available for recreational activities.
"A lot of it includes waterways such as this that people can canoe or kayak on, hiking trials and all sorts of different opportunities. I think it's great to have the governor out here and seeing again, as he's been out here before, what we have to offer in this part of the Commonwealth," Connelly said.
Leaving from Tidioute on Monday morning, Corbett stopped at the Fish and Boat Commission's West Hickory Access Area in Forest County before heading down the Allegheny River and Conemaugh River to Venango County, Johnstown and Pittsburgh.
"Preserving our natural resources for generations to come is critical to the growth of our commonwealth. Not only do they support a high quality of life for our residents, but they support the continued success of Pennsylvania's tourism industry," he said.
"Every dollar in state money we invest in our award-winning state park system generates $12 in local economic activity that helps communities prosper and maintain jobs," Corbett said. "Businesses such as outfitters, bike shops, B&Bs and restaurants all crop up to support the visitors to our parks."