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Programs coming to state parks

The following programs have been scheduled at Moraine and McConnells Mill state parks:

6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday - Eagle & Osprey Cruise, meet beside Owlet Gift Shop in the McDanel’s Area on the North Shore of Moraine State Park. On this cruise on the Preston’s Pearl pontoon boat, observe these amazing birds soaring over Lake Arthur. Both eagle and osprey have made a comeback to Pennsylvania through tremendous conservation efforts. Join a park naturalist to learn about the biology and reintroduction journey of these magnificent birds.Seating is limited. Cost: $17 per person.Pre-registration is required. To register, call the Owlet Gift Shop at 724-368-9185.

6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday - Dog Hike with Humane Society, Pleasant Valley Non-Motorized Launch Area on the South Shore of Moraine State Park. Join the park naturalist and the Butler Humane Society for an organized, guided hike on the Sunken Garden Trail. Before the hike you will learn how to safely take your dog out on the trail and what you should carry in your pack to keep you and your four-legged buddy safe. All dogs must be friendly and remain on their leash while in the park. Participants must also pick up after their dogs! Wear sturdy hiking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring drinking water (for you and your dog) and a snack.

8 to 10 p.m. Sept. 1 - Night Hike, Pavilion #7 in McDanel’s Launch Area on the North Shore of Moraine State. Join the park naturalist to discover some of the amazing creatures of the nighttime world. Topics will include owls and night-vision, among other topics. Pre-registration is required. To register, call the park office at 724-368-8811.

9 a.m. to noon Sept. 3 - Family Fishing, meet at the 528 Boat Launch at Moraine State Park. Discover just how much fun fishing can be when you do it together at a Family Fishing Program led by park staff. Learn basic fishing skills like knot tying, casting, baiting the hook and taking a fish off the hook. You and your family will have the opportunity to fish – no fishing license required. All equipment is provided by PA Fish and Boat Commission. The “catch” is that adults must take a child and children must take an adult. Reservations are required; call the Moraine park office at 724-368-8811 to make reservations or for more information. Exit Route 422 and turn north on Route 528, cross the lake, and turn right into the “528 Boat Launch.”

8:30 to 10 a.m. Sept. 4 - Hemlock Heroes, Breakneck Falls Parking Lot off Cheeseman Road at McConnells Mill State Park.The Eastern hemlock is known for being an important construction timber and used in the tanning industry. This once long-lived tree is now under attack. What shall we do? Find out on a two-mile hike with the park naturalist along the Slippery Rock Creek on Breakneck Falls Trail. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, dress for the weather and take drinking water and a snack.

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