McConnells Mill State Park offers a number of scenic areas to explore.Butler Eagle file photo
Moraine and McConnells Mill state parks have announced the following upcoming programs:
March 19, 9 a.m. to noon, Waterfowl Bird Walk — Meet at the Waterfowl Observation Area near the Region 2 office off the Prospect exit off Route 422 at Moraine State Park. Interested birders from all skill levels from beginners to experts are welcome. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather.
March 19, 1 to 3 p.m., Winter Weeds Walk — Meet at the Pleasant Valley Picnic Area on the south shore of Moraine State Park. Explore the Pleasant Valley and Sunken Garden Trail with an easy 1.5-mile hike along Lake Arthur, looking for dried grasses, seedpods and other treats of nature. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots.
March 26, Wood Duck Nesting Box Workday — Meet at the parking lot at the end of Burton Road in Moraine State Park. Join Moraine State Park staff and Russ Cawthorne of Specialty Outdoors to do some much-needed work to erect wood duck nesting boxes in the Muddy Creek Cove area on the eastern end of the Lake Arthur. Bring a lunch and some snacks, water and work gloves, and dress for working in the outdoors. Bring hip waders or chest waders, if you have them. Pre-registration is required by calling the park office at 724-368-8811.
March 26, 10 a.m. to noon, Tree Identification Walk — Meet at the Kildoo picnic area of McConnells Mill State Park. Join DCNR staff for a guided walk in and around the Kildoo picnic area, visiting a variety of trees and using forestry tips, techniques and tools. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy footwear and bring a drink or snack. All ages are welcome to the family friendly event. Reservations are suggested, by calling the park office at 724-368-8811.
April 16, 10 a.m. to noon, Volunteer Kickoff Meeting — Meet in the Kildoo Pavilion at McConnells Mill State Park. Learn how to get involved by volunteering at either Moraine or McConnells Mill state parks. Meet park staff and representatives of the nonprofit groups that support the parks.
April 21, 7 to 9 p.m., Woodcock Walk — Meet at Pavilion #7 McDanel’s Launch Area on the north shore of Moraine State Park. Join the local bird enthusiasts in pursuit of one of the most unusual birds found in Pennsylvania: the woodcock, also known as the timberdoodle, night partridge, big-eye, bogsucker and mudsnipe. Pre-registration required. Call the park office at 724-368-8811.
May 14, 8 a.m. on noon, Warbler Walk — Meet at Pleasant Valley Non-motorized Launch Area on the south shore of Moraine State Park. Interested birders from all skill levels from beginners to experts are welcome. Bring binoculars if you have them. If not, there will be binoculars on hand for you to use. Bring water, snacks, and sharp eyes and ears.
