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Outdoors

Conservation kits available from DCNR

Free Pocket Meadow Kits are currently available to residents across the Commonwealth according to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. These small meadow plantings provide environmental benefits for communities by improving stormwater absorption, supporting pollinators, and reducing long-term lawn maintenance, according to the DCNR. “Pocket Meadow Kits give residents a simple and accessible way to transform small areas of lawn into thriving native habitat that supports pollinators, improves stormwater absorption, and strengthens biodiversity in communities across ...

Commissioners set 2026-27 hunting seasons, other changes

Last weekend, the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners gave final approval to the 2026-27 hunting and trapping seasons and bag limits. With a few exceptions, the structure of the 2026-27 seasons will generally mirror those of last year. Sundays will be included in all seasons when a Sunday falls between the opening and closing dates of that season. Seasons that typically ended on a Saturday will now end on Sunday giving an extra day to the season. There will be no Sunday hunting in 2026-27 for migratory game birds, which include waterfowl, woodcock and mourning doves. The seasons ...

Father Knows Best

Brian McDermott teaches his son, Jacob McDermott, 5, both of Altoona, how to cast his fishing line at Canoe Creek State Park on Friday afternoon.

State offers two days for free fishing

Fish for Free days will be held this summer, set for May 24 and July 4. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will allow anyone to fish on public waterways without a license the Sunday before Memorial Day (May 24) and on Independence Day (July 4). These days are valid for residents and non-residents, though all other fishing regulations and seasons apply. Organizers believe these two days are perfect for families and new anglers to experience fishing.

Chainsaw Carvers Rendezvous anniversary set

RIDGWAY — The roar of chainsaws will echo through the Ridgway Mills Campground, April 22–25, as chainsaw carvers transform raw logs into intricate sculptures during the 25th Annual Chainsaw Carvers Rendezvous. The event is expected to draw more than 30,000 visitors to Ridgway, a historic lumber town of 4,000 residents. The influx delivers a major boost to local tourism, hospitality, and small businesses across Elk County and the Pennsylvania Wilds region. Since its founding in 2000, the Rendezvous has attracted chainsaw artists from more than 22 countries, earning Ridgway the ...