Pennsylvania officials have introduced a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing the state’s rivers, wildlife, and public lands. As part of this effort, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has opened online voting for the 2026 River of the Year, allowing residents to select from three nominated waterways until January 16. The contenders are the Conestoga River, Chillisquaque Creek, and the lower Schuylkill River.
The **Conestoga River**, which flows over **61 miles** to the Susquehanna River, is favored for activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. **Chillisquaque Creek**, stretching **20 miles** through four counties, offers diverse outdoor recreation opportunities across its watershed. The **lower Schuylkill River**, spanning **36 miles** through the greater Philadelphia area, serves as a vital recreational corridor, highlighting the region’s environmental assets.
DCNR Secretary **Cindy Adams Dunn** emphasized that this competition not only showcases the recreational, cultural, and economic importance of these rivers but also aims to foster community pride and awareness about conservation efforts. The initiative is managed by the **Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers** with funding from the DCNR.
Conservation Grants Support Biodiversity Research
In a related effort, the **Shapiro Administration** announced nearly **$530,000** in grants for **15 projects** focused on conserving Pennsylvania’s native biodiversity. This funding aims to support research on various species, including rare plants, insects, birds, fish, and mammals. The projects include mapping habitats for green salamanders, conducting surveys for rare stoneflies, and developing Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive firefly inventory.
Other initiatives funded include assessing the reintroduction of endangered fish species and utilizing DNA barcoding to catalog native bee diversity. The grants, administered through the **Wild Resource Conservation Program**, underscore the state’s commitment to protecting non-game species and ecosystems for future generations.
DCNR officials noted that these grants align with broader investments in the **2025–26 state budget**, which increases funding for the DCNR, invasive species control, outdoor recreation, and state park expansions. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen the stewardship of Pennsylvania’s natural resources.
Leadership Change at Chapman State Park
On December 12, DCNR announced a leadership change in the Pennsylvania Wilds, appointing **Michael Plish** as the new manager of **Chapman State Park** in Warren County. Plish, a native of Moon Township and an environmental science graduate from **Clarion University**, has experience from various state parks and the **Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps**. His collaborative approach is expected to enhance the stewardship of Chapman State Park, a popular destination adjacent to state game lands and the **Allegheny National Forest**.
These initiatives collectively reflect Pennsylvania’s strategic focus on engaging the public, investing in science-driven conservation efforts, and managing natural resources effectively. As the Commonwealth embraces environmental protection, these programs are positioned as vital components of both civic responsibility and economic opportunity.
