Lumber Heritage Region launches inaugural conservation camp
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The Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) celebrated the success of its inaugural Teen Conservation Camp, held Monday, June 29 to Wednesday, July 1, bringing together teens from across north central Pennsylvania for three days of outdoor adventure, conservation education, leadership development, and hands-on learning inspired by the legacy of Pennsylvania’s forests and the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Designed for youth ages 15-17, the overnight camp introduced participants to the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage while exploring the many career opportunities available within forestry, conservation, recreation, environmental education, and the forest products industry.
Throughout the three-day experience, campers participated in outdoor recreation, conservation projects, team-building activities, environmental education, and immersive field experiences that fostered an appreciation for Pennsylvania’s forests and the people who care for them. The camp was the result of a collaborative partnership between the Lumber Heritage Region, Cameron County Outdoor Youth Activities (CCOYA), and Penn State Extension 4-H Youth Development, demonstrating the power of organizations working together to invest in the next generation of conservation leaders.
A driving force behind the camp was Rowan Crisp, Project and Education Manager for the Lumber Heritage Region, who coordinated educational programming and worked closely with partners to develop an engaging experience that connected campers with the region’s natural resources, history, and future career pathways. The Lumber Heritage Region also extends its sincere appreciation to Taylor Gillette, Manager of Cameron County Outdoor Youth Activities, and Natalie Aiello, Penn State Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development, whose leadership, enthusiasm, and dedication to youth education helped make the inaugural camp an unforgettable experience.
Their partnership exemplifies the collaborative spirit that continues to strengthen outdoor education throughout the Lumber Heritage Region. “This camp represents exactly what the Lumber Heritage Region strives to do -- connect the next generation to the forests, history, and communities that have shaped our region,” said Holly Komonczi, Executive Director of the Lumber Heritage Region. “Watching these young people gain confidence, develop new skills, and discover career pathways over just three days was incredibly rewarding. I am especially proud of Rowan Crisp for his leadership and grateful for the outstanding partnership with Taylor Gillette, Natalie Aiello, our instructors, volunteers and everyone who shared their expertise. Together, they created an experience that we hope will inspire future conservation leaders for years to come.”
The inaugural camp was made possible through the support of dedicated funding partners committed to conservation education and youth engagement. The West Penn Energy Fund provided generous support that helped make this unique experience possible for participants, while additional support for the Lumber Heritage Region’s educational initiatives is provided through Pennsylvania’s Heritage Area Program. This project was financed in part by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Heritage Area Program, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.
The Lumber Heritage Region extends its gratitude to the many volunteers, presenters, land managers, educators, and industry professionals who generously shared their knowledge and passion throughout the week. Their commitment created a meaningful learning environment while showcasing the importance of Pennsylvania’s forests as both a treasured natural resource and a vital economic asset. Following the overwhelming success of this inaugural program, the Lumber Heritage Region looks forward to building upon this foundation and expanding youth educational opportunities that inspire the next generation to explore, protect, and celebrate Pennsylvania’s forest heritage.
The Lumber Heritage Region of Pennsylvania covers the following counties: Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Forest, Indiana, Jefferson, Lycoming, McKean, Potter, Tioga and Warren.