Ceremony held for new dock
MUDDY CREEK TWP — Boaters using the Bear Creek Boat Launch on Moraine State Park's South Shore have a new dock to use.
An official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Friday for the new dock. The dock, installed earlier this season, has a few more fingers for boats than the old dock.
“We are always grateful when local organizations and businesses care so much about our state parks that they are willing to help us make them better for all of our citizens,” said park manager Dustin Drew.
“Many fishing tournaments that support our local economies launch from this area and the new dock will help accommodate temporary mooring for these groups, as well as the boating community as a whole,” he said.
The Butler Basscasters, a local fishing organization, partnered with EdgeMarc Energy and the Moraine, McConnells Mill and Jennings Commission (3MJC) to improve the docks.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony recognized the company's $11,500 donation for the enhancements.
“We are grateful for this important partnership with EdgeMarc, a strong community advocate and partner,” said Ernie Pate, a club member. “Their generous donation will help enrich the already fantastic experience of Moraine State Park visitors, sportsmen and conservationists.”
EdgeMarc is an oil and gas company headquartered in southwestern Pennsylvania.
“Giving back and investing in the communities where we are privileged to operate is a core value of ours,” said Callum Streeter, EdgeMarc's drilling and completions director. “We are very pleased to partner with the Butler Basscasters and others closely involved in the park's community- and family-focused activities as well as its preservation. The park, especially Lake Arthur, is a regional treasure.”
3MJC, a nonprofit friend of the park group, also contributed funding toward the completion of the project. Merco Marine, the dock manufacturer, contributed by offering technical advice and reduced costs.
The launch is one of eight public boat launches the park offers for accessing the 3,225-acre Lake Arthur. More than 1 million boaters, hikers, bikers, and swimmers visit the 16,725-acre park each year.
