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Guided Recreation Programs Set for Western Pa. Parks
HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources recently launched Get Outdoors PA, a pilot program in western Pennsylvania designed to connect visitors to guided recreation programs in state parks and forests, reports department Secretary Michael DiBerardinis.The pilot program, which is being introduced in more than 20 state parks and forests in western Pennsylvania, will offer visitors a chance to learn an outdoor skill in an organized setting with trained professionals. More than 160 programs are scheduled during the next four months beginning May 1.Get Outdoors PA is a cooperative program between DCNR and Venture Outdoors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation and western Pennsylvania as a great place to live, work and play outdoors. Venture Outdoors guides will lead the programs, with support from DCNR staff.Programs on camping, kayaking, canoeing, fly-fishing, rock climbing and mountain biking will teach visitors technique and provide the equipment to participate in the session. Organized day hikes and nature treks combine discovery of the natural world along with invigorating exercise. Outdoor courses in Leave No Trace, Wilderness survival and geocaching combine fun with learning. Get Outdoors PA also offers programs designed for women on biking, canoeing, hiking and fly-fishing.The Summer 2004 program runs from May through August at Allegheny Island, Blue Knob, Clear Creek, Cook Forest, Hillman, Keystone, Laurel Hill, Linn Run, MK Goddard, Moraine, McConnell's Mill, Ohiopyle, Oil Creek, Point, Presque Isle, Prince Gallitzin, Pymatuning, Raccoon Creek, Ryerson Station and Yellow Creek state parks; Forbes State Forest; and Jennings Environmental Education Center.Prices of the sessions vary; some are free. While most programs are for beginners, some are tailored for advanced learning experiences. They range from half-day to two-day outings. Some programs offer discounts for children, says Mike Schiller, executive director of Venture Outdoors.More information is available at the following Web sites:www.dcnr.state.pa.us or www.ventureoutdoors.org"