The region has long been a bastion for conservation — and a designation bestowed this week upon one of its most popular sites is further proof.

On Monday, Maryland-based nonprofit conservation agency Old-Growth Forest Network inducted 120 forests in 24 states, including 12 in Pennsylvania, one of which was McConnells Mill State Park, Lawrence County.

The network presented a plaque to McConnells Mill manager, Dustin Drew, during a dedication ceremony.

It was noted that while the state park formed thousands of years ago when glacial lakes drained, allowing trees and plants to grow, many of the trees at the site are more than two-and-a-half centuries old — and this is due to preservation efforts by those who care for the park.

Joan Maloof, Old-Growth Forest Network’s executive director, said the aim for recognizing the park is “creating a new generation that will make sure this forest stays intact.”

We hope to see this goal accomplished. Residents in this region have a history of preserving historic landmarks.

Just look around and you’ll see we have a number of wonderful geographic features in Butler County.

At Jennings Environmental Education Center in Slippery Rock, there’s a 20-acre prairie that’s the only publicly protected ecosystem of its type in the state. In Portersville, there’s the 14-mile Glacier Ridge Trail, which extends from Jennings Environmental Education Center to Moraine State Park. Those who traverse it will wind through forests, cross streams and get great views of Lake Arthur.

And at McConnells Mill, there’s the 6-mile Slippery Rock Creek Gorge, which is part of the North Country National Scenic Trail. Those who embark on this challenging hike will be rewarded with lush scenery and beautiful views of waterfalls.

Now, the region has another reason to celebrate with McConnells Mill State Park being recognized by the Old-Growth Forest Network. Those who live in Butler County and the surrounding regions are fortunate to have so many fantastic outdoor features, and this past year exemplified why that’s so important.

During the year of COVID-19, taking part in indoor activities was extremely limited and, at times, completely curtailed. As a result, people flocked to the outdoors.

We owe our gratitude to the many people who took the time to volunteer over the years to help preserve these spots. As a result of their work and dedication, the region has a smorgasbord of places to commune with nature or take part in outdoor recreation.

— NCD