Dear Pam:

Autumn colors are beginning to spread across the landscape, signaling the beginning of fall and the closure of another year. We know that many of you have autumn events taking place - don’t forget to let Tasha and Pam know so that they can include on the calendar and on the MeetUp app.

I also want to thank all who participated and listed events on Healthy Lands Week. The calendar was full with a wide array of events! 

See you soon!

Marci J. Mowery, President

TRAINING 

November is a big and busy month on the training schedule! 

First, our annual Chapter Retreat will take place, as you will have noticed from the save the date email I sent a few weeks ago, on November 2 at R.B. Winter State Park's Halfway Run Environmental Learning Center. It is a kind of "secret location" so refer to the map below (click to it for a download). Also, be aware there is no cell service!

We based the agenda largely on the "challenges" you reflected in your annual reports. These submissions are so important as they allow us to understand where there are struggles. 

There are no cottages or yurts at R.B. Winter; however, campsites are available. There are many other lodging opportunities in both Mifflinburg and Lewisburg. If you're staying overnight in the park, please let us know as we will be there!

In terms of the day itself, we will provide hot dogs and chili, coffee and tea, and some snacks (PPFF goes nowhere without snacks). We encourage you to bring a side or a "yummy" to supplement the menu. Also, bring any of your materials to share or get feedback.

I have been asked, "Who should come?" Anyone on your board or executive committee; your park or forest point of contact is also welcome.

The agenda is available here.

MORE TRAINING

I know the notice is a bit late; however, we have been able to get final arrangements for three chainsaw workshops from Peter Jensen, our preferred trainer. Please share these with your trail volunteers; you do not need to be a board member to participate!

November 6 and 7: Nockamixon State Park

November 9 and 10: Kings Gap Environmental Education Center

November 12 and 13: Bald Eagle State Park

The cost for the two days of training is $175/person of which PPFF will cover $115. The remaining $60 fee is a legitimate expenditure of chapter funds via reimbursement through normal expense processes.

Participants will need to supply their own saws and PPE (personal protection equipment). This is a great opportunity to have your equipment inspected by a US Forest Service approved trainer. Feel free to bring any of the tools you use in conjunction with your tree removal duties for review as well. 

If you have been previously certified through one of Peter's classes or if you are seeking first-time certification, this workshop is for you and meets the requirements for PPFF/DCNR volunteer work.

TRAINING, FINALLY

As noted last month, we are hosting a trail maintenance summit with our friends at Keystone Trails Association on November 16. More information and registration (the cost is $25 and includes lunch) can be found with a click to the picture. Likewise, please share the training opportunities with your trail volunteers. As with the chainsaw class, you don’t need to be on a chapter board to participate in the trail summit.

Unfortunately, we did not have enough interest to conduct the Leave No Trace training this month. There is a session available next March. Katie has already reached out to a few folks about it; if, however, you would be interested in additional information please contact her.

KNOW

Our Annual Report reflects all of the work outlined in the annual reports we were provided. 

Download your copy here.

It will soon be time to complete your 2024 report.

Celebrate that you are part of something BIG!

SHARE

From now on you'll see the "Unity Blaze" logo appearing on our publications and communications signifying our commitment to offering a welcomed experience to people of color in our programs and initiatives. As staff and board we recently completed the first part of training from Black Folks Camp, Too whose “You are Invited and Welcomed" campfire is now a part of us.