Current Press Releases
PEEC’s Annual Harvest Festival: Hikes, Games, Music, Crafts & More!
September 20, 2023
Celebrate the beauty of autumn! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be holding its annual Harvest Festival on October 14, 2023 from 11:00am-4:00pm. Enjoy vendors, exhibits, live music, vendors, food, crafts, and more. Festival entry is $5 per car.
This year, for kids of all ages, Harvest Festival will include a pumpkin patch, trick or treating, face painting, a scarecrow building contest, animal presenter, live music, and a hay wagon. Weather permitting; canoeing will also be available on PEEC’s pond throughout the day.
Harvest Festival is hosted in partnership with the Alliance for Watershed Education (AWE) on the Delaware River as part of the AWE River Days events. For River Days, PEEC will sponsor a plant life-cycle booth to showcase all stages of plant life.
For many years, PEEC has been proud to support local businesses, and this year is no exception. A variety of local vendors will be selling goods ranging from soaps and signs to locally made honey and coffee. We will have our vendors spread out across upper and lower campus, with a hayride shuttle between campus areas.
PEEC will also be hosting crafts and games for visitors of all ages. The always-popular tie-dye station will be back, along with upcycled and traditional crafts.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
Pocono Environmental Education Center Awarded American Water Charitable Foundation 2023 Water and Environment Grant
August 30, 2023
Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) announced today that it was awarded an American Water Charitable Foundation 2023 Water and Environment grant, supporting PEEC’s work to provide local and regional students with educational programs focused on watershed stewardship.
Kelly Daly, PEEC’s Executive Director, commented, “PEEC is thrilled to receive support from the American Water Charitable Foundation to extend our PEEC Into the Classroom programming to more schools in the region. In addition to promoting environmental stewardship, PEEC invites schools to visit our campus within the National Park where they can form an authentic connection to nature and Learn Naturally!”
The Water and Environment grant is part of the American Water Charitable Foundation’s Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization established by American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., and aims to support high-impact projects and initiatives that further American Water’s commitment to ESG, as well as inclusion, diversity and equity.
“The American Water Charitable Foundation remains committed to participating and investing in organizations and programs that benefit the diverse communities served by American Water,” said Carrie Williams, president, American Water Charitable Foundation. “We are proud to further American Water’s ongoing commitment to being a good neighbor and strong partner in the community.”
Learn more about PEEC’s mission and community impact at peec.org.
About Pocono Environmental Education Center
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 6,500 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.
For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PEEC 2023 Earth Day Celebration
April 3, 2023
Join us for a fun-filled Earth Day event at the Pocono Environmental Education Center! From 11am-4pm on April 29, 2023, there will be a variety of vendors showcasing eco-friendly products and services, as well as educational displays and hands-on activities for all ages.
Stroll through the vendor booths and learn about sustainable living, renewable energy, organic gardening, recycling, and more. Purchase locally made crafts, natural beauty products, and environmentally friendly household items to support green businesses and reduce your carbon footprint.
Kids will love the interactive exhibits and games, such as a recycling relay race, a solar oven demonstration, and a composting workshop. There will be live music, canoeing, face painting, and tie dying.
In addition to the vendor area, several environmental organizations and nonprofits will be on-site to provide information about their causes and volunteer opportunities. You can sign up to plant trees, clean up litter, or participate in citizen science projects to help protect our planet.
Admission is $5 per car, so bring your friends and family and join us for a day of celebrating and caring for our Earth!
The 2023 Earth Day Festival will also kick-off with PEEC’s Tough as Trails 5k Trail Race. The 5k course runs through PEEC’s Main Campus, and includes two gorgeous trail loops; pre-registration is required.
The 2023 Tough as Trails event is sponsored by Pine Forest Camp, Custom Laminating Corporation, Lamtec Corporation, The Dime Bank, Dingmans Choice & Delaware Bridge Co., Edge of the Woods Outfitters, Manko Gold Katcher Fox LLP, Pennywise Fuel Company, Sequoia Tree, Inc., Turano Insurance & Financial LLC, Abel HR, CPA Rifles, Greater Pike Community Foundation, Weis Markets, and Pike County Light & Power Company.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Kelly Daly New Executive Director at PEEC
December 1, 2022
PEEC’s Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Kelly Daly as PEEC’s new Executive Director.
Kelly will replace Jeff Rosalsky, who is retiring after 14 years leading PEEC. Chairperson of the PEEC Board, Dr. K. Joy Karnas noted, “We are thrilled that Kelly has taken on the leadership role at PEEC. The Board is confident that Kelly’s experience will complement the environmental and sustainability education work PEEC has been doing for the past 50 years. We want to thank Jeff for all of his dedicated and innovative work at PEEC during his tenure.”
Kelly joins PEEC as its new Executive Director on January 1, 2023. Most recently, she led Camp Speers YMCA in Dingmans Ferry as their Executive Director. Kelly comes to PEEC with over 20 years of operations, recreation and environmental education leadership in nonprofit organizations. Her commitment to connecting people to each other through experiences in the outdoors aligns with PEECs mission to advance appreciation for nature, environmental education and sustainable living.
PEEC is located within the 77,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with over a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
Harvest Festival: Earthwalk Explore & More!
September 26, 2022
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be celebrating its 50th anniversary at the annual Harvest Festival on October 8. The Harvest Festival will run from 11:00am-4:00pm and the 50th anniversary ceremony event will be held at 2:30pm. There is no admission charge; however, donations to the 50th Anniversary Endowment Fund will be accepted.
Harvest Festival highlights:
· Festival Fun: All day from 11am to 4pm, games, crafts, tie-dye and EcoZone will be available for the enjoyment of guests, as well as numerous vendors and local partners. There will also be 2 bands on campus for musical enjoyment. Guided Hikes will be offered and Canoeing will be available on our pond. The Animal Presentation will take place at 3:00pm.
· The Earthwalk Explorer Exhibit: This interactive map experience comes to PEEC from the National Scenic Visitors Center to celebrate our indigenous land stewards, the Lenni Lenape. Featuring a 128 square foot relief map of the U.S. from North Carolina to New Hampshire, this map is meant to allow guest to walk the trails of the Native Americans of our area. The exhibit also features Native American Petroglyphs, or painting symbols, that were used for communication and education by the tribes. This exhibit will be available at PEEC for visitors to experience through November 27.
· Campus Hayride: This year the festival will expand to include both the upper and lower campus sections. To make getting around enjoyable for everyone, a short hayride shuttle service will be offered around the lower campus loop that will make the journey fun and festive.
· New Cabins-on-Wheels: The older PEEC cabins on the hill are being replaced by mobile log cabins on wheels that will provide new bunks for guests and take PEEC forward into the next 50 years of environmental education. The new cabins will be available for touring during festival hours.
· 50th Celebration: The ceremony acknowledging PEEC’s history and hopes for the future will take place at 2:30pm and will include a short award presentation and comments from a former PEEC program participant and current group leader.
The event is free to attend; however, all donations collected from the festival day will be added to PEEC’s 50th Anniversary Endowment Fund as a financial nest egg. Through generous donations and grants, PEEC survived the hard times of the past few years while other nature centers closed. The 50th Anniversary Endowment plans to set aside at least $100,000 to ensure PEEC can continue into the next 50 years and beyond.
PEEC is located within the 77,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
Pocono Television Network Features PEEC’s 50th Anniversary
June 6, 2022
PTN’s Brianna Strunk shares about PEEC’s history, current activities, and plans for the future.
Watch the 4-minute interview here: Pocono Television Network – June 6, 2022
GREATER PIKE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION: RICHARD L. SNYDER GRANT AWARDED TO PEEC
August 13, 2021
Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) was pleased to receive a grant from the Greater Pike Community Foundation’s Richard L. Snyder Fund in support of PEEC programming in 2021/2022. Maryanne Monte, the Grant Committee chair, noted grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 were awarded. “Approximately $71,000 will be available to not-for-profit organizations in the categories of beautification, cultural events, and medical-related projects,” Monte said. “Richard Snyder’s legacy to Greater Pike Community Foundation is a reflection of his enduring support for our community and his love for Milford and Pike County. His generosity truly underscores our slogan For Good. Forever.”
PEEC will utilize the grant funds to support ongoing efforts to engage the local community in Pike County. Efforts will focus on marketing PEEC events to those individuals closest to the PEEC campus, which is located between Milford and Stroudsburg, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. In addition, the grant supports PEEC events throughout the year including the Earth Day Festival, Harvest Fest, and Tough as Trails 5k.
Finally, the grant also provides the necessary funding for extended hours of PEEC’s EcoZone, an immersive environmental education experience where participants learn about the local environment, watershed, and sustainability. The Richard L. Snyder grant allows EcoZone Tours to be scheduled weekends, all year long. Joel Penkala, Director of Development at PEEC, stated, “The Snyder Grant helps to sustain multiple public programs at PEEC and we are very thankful to have the continued support of the Greater Pike Community Foundation. Their commitment to environmental education and a sustainable future as well as to the residents of Pike County cannot be overstated.”
Greater Pike Community Foundation was created to enable generous individuals, families, and local businesses to maximize their charitable support through organized, targeted, long-term community philanthropy. The Foundation provides a permanent and personal way to give back to the region we love and have worked so hard to nurture and maintain. For information about establishing a fund in memory of a loved one, or to discuss how to realize your charitable goal for the future, please contact Jenni Hamill at jennihamill@greaterpike.org or 570-832-4686, or visit our website wwww.greaterpike.org, or our Facebook page, Facebook.com/GreaterPike.
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
PEEC AWE FELLOWS FEATURED IN POCONO RECORD
August 8, 2021
PEEC Day, a capstone project for Alliance for Watershed Education Fellows Brian Frey and Xzy-Naye Campbell, was featured by the Pocono Record in a front page story.
Read the entire article here: Gateway to the Outdoors – Pocono Record Article
PEEC’s Tough as Trails Virtual Competition
April 6, 2021
Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, remarks, “Tough as Trails allows participants to raise funds to support PEEC’s environmental education mission simply by enjoying their favorite places to run, hike or walk. What better way to support a great cause than by doing what you love?”
If you’re looking forward to getting outside as much as we are this spring, join us on May 1 and 2 for the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC) first annual Tough as Trail event! This virtual competition makes it possible for your enjoyment of being outdoors to help support environmental education for the 15,000 students that attend PEEC’s environmental education programs annually. The beauty of it? You can participate from anywhere!
The event will run the entire first weekend of May and takes place in your favorite outdoor location to run, hike or walk. To participate, go to https://peec.jmvirtualraces.com/ and click to join Tough as Trails. Once you’ve registered for the event, download the free JustMove app to your phone and log-in. Search for Tough as Trails in the charities section and join the event using the code provided when you registered. Once you’ve joined the event in the app, you’re ready to get moving!
Tough as Trails is a great way to turn your passion for the outdoors into support and advocacy on its behalf. PEEC’s Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky summed it up perfectly: “Tough as Trails allows participants to raise funds to support PEEC’s environmental education mission simply by enjoying their favorite places to run, hike or walk. What better way to support a great cause than by doing what you love?” Director of Operations, Derek Scott, had similar sentiment, stating: “I think we all have a favorite place to spend time outside, regardless of what or where it is. We felt this event was the perfect way to give back to these outdoor spaces that we care about.”
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year. For more information, please contact Derek Scott, Director of Operations, at (570) 828-2319 or dcott@peec.org
Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, Interview with Comcast Newsmakers
February 3, 2020
PEEC’s Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, was invited to chat with Comcast Newsmakers about the importance of sustainability!
Watch the 5-minute interview here: Comcast Newsmakers – February 3, 2020
PEEC’s 9th Annual Harvest Festival: Hikes, Games, Music, Crafts & More!
October 4, 2019
On Saturday, October 12, join the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) for the 9th annual Harvest Festival, complete with vendors, exhibits, live music, classes, guided hikes, crafts, and more! Harvest Festival will run from 11:00am until 4:00pm for $5.00 per car. Join PEEC in welcoming Fall and celebrating the beautiful planet we live on!
This year, 4 guided hikes will be available throughout the day, hosted by PEEC staff and guest speakers. Topics will include edible and medicinal plants, the many changes of autumn, and the updates to PEEC’S trails after the damage from Winter Storm Riley in 2018.
Harvest Festival is hosted in partnership with the Alliance for Watershed Education on the Delaware River as part of PEEC’s River Days events. For River Days, PEEC will be hosting basic kayaking lessons and instruction on the pond led by an American Canoeing Association certified kayaking instructor. While spaces will be limited for kayaking, open canoeing will be available throughout the day.
For many years, PEEC has been proud to support local businesses, and this year is no exception. A variety of local vendors will be selling goods ranging from crystals and fossils to soaps and candles to baked goods and jams. Many community organizations and craftsmen will be presenting on topics ranging from blacksmithing to therapeutic horses.
PEEC will also be hosting crafts and games for visitors of all ages. The always popular tie-dye station will be back, along with upcycled and traditional crafts.
Friends of PEEC will be performing and hosting activities during Harvest Festival. Donna, a volunteer, will have an open hula hoop station with instruction to introduce visitors to hula hoop dancing; Dr. Bob will bring his chainsaw and carve a new work of art; and Larry will be playing live music. The event will conclude with an animal presentation by Pocono Snake and Animal Farm which will introduce visitors to animals from around the world!
At Earth Day in the spring, PEEC began a plastic film recycling challenge in partnership with Trex. Trex will be taking the bags donated to PEEC and turning them into a durable and environmentally friendly building material. This challenge ends at Harvest Festival, and PEEC is still working toward the 500 pound goal! You can bring any clean plastic bags or similar material to PEEC during the Harvest Festival or any time PEEC is open beforehand!
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
Marketing & Outreach Grant Award to PEEC
September 5, 2019
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) received a $3,750 grant award from The Greater Pike Community Foundation: Richard L. Snyder Fund to support marketing & outreach for 2019-2020.
With this grant award, the Greater Pike Community Foundation: Richard L. Snyder Fund will support PEEC’s 4th Annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race; the annual fall Harvest Festival; and the ever popular PEEC Earth Day Celebration, along with other weekend community activities. A list of PEEC’s public programs can be found at www.peec.org.
PEEC Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “The Greater Pike Community Foundation is a wonderful organization and we appreciate their support. This grant will enable us to continue to offer educational and fun environmental programs to the community.”
The Greater Pike Community Foundation was created to enable generous individuals, families, and local businesses to maximize their charitable support through organized, targeted, long-term community philanthropy. The Foundation provides a permanent and personal way to give back to the region we love and have worked so hard to nurture and maintain. For information about establishing a fund in memory of a loved one, or to discuss how to realize your charitable goal for the future, please contact Jim Pedranti at: info@greaterpike.org or 570-832-4686, or visit our website at www.greaterpike.org or our Facebook page at Facebook.com/GreaterPike.
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
Sanofi Funds PEEC’s Sci-Q Project for 2020
July 17, 2019
Sanofi awarded the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) a grant of $29,586 to fund the Sci-Q Project for 2020. PEEC’s Sci-Q Project is a week-long summer science experience for talented 8th to 10th graders interested in pursuing science careers. As the exclusive funder of the Sci-Q Project, Sanofi continues its strong commitment to STEM education in Northeast Pennsylvania.
The Sci-Q Project provides students with the opportunity to interact with college professors, hand-picked for their fun, approachable nature, as they showcase their research in a variety of fascinating fields. Students engage in hand-on science and engineering projects that challenge them and provide opportunities for finding novel and creative solutions. The professors share their personal career stories and the challenges and rewards of becoming scientists.
Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “PEEC is proud and privileged to receive the generous funding from Sanofi for the Sci-Q Project. Sanofi has supported PEEC and this program for many years and the results are truly remarkable.”
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
A PEEC Day of Winners at the 3rd Annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race
May 7, 2019
To the delight of spectators, PEEC supporters, and fellow runners, Noah Hinger, a 12 year old from Summit, New Jersey, sprinted across the finish line in a swift 32 minutes and 53 seconds to take first place in PEEC’s 3rd Annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race. Right behind was his dad, Chris Hinger who finished second and Jerry Sandaldjian ended in third place.
A cool and cloudy day, with temperatures hovering in the mid-fifties, was perfect for running. Sandra Orson, Jennifer Nagy and Yazmin Malpica were the first, second and third place winners in the Women’s category.
2019 PEEC 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race Winners:
Men |
Women |
Overall 1. Noah Hinger 2. Chris Hinger 3. Jerry Sandaldjian |
Overall 1. Sandra Orson 2. Jennifer Nagy 3. Yazmin Malpica |
12 and Under 1. Jackson Hancock 2. Maxwell Hancock 3. Sean Winship |
|
20-29 1. Jason Van Duyne |
20-29 1. Natasha Sandaldjian |
30-39 1. Joe Geib |
30-39 1. Amanda Schwartz |
40-49 1. Charles Peters 2. Mitchell Malpica 3. Adam Shedd |
50-59 1. Joyce Trentacosta 2. Karen Macaulay 3. Mariedyth Gayas |
50-59 1. Marco Castillo 2. George Bevans 3. Dennis Greenland |
|
60+ 1. Anthony Batko 2. Warren Hecker 3. Jeffrey Van Duyne |
60+ 1. Sheri Bone 2. Jane Jacobs 3. Diane Van Duyne |
The 3rd Annual 5K Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race was an all-around winner. This year, PEEC raised over $15,000 to further the environmental education of school groups; 40% more than 2018. We thank all of our sponsors who enthusiastically gave generously this year. We are humbled and privileged to have so many local and regional businesses support PEEC’s mission.
Presenting Sponsor
AM Skier Agency, Inc.
Platinum Sponsors
Greater Pike Community Foundation
Pine Forest Camp
The Dime Bank
Silver Sponsors
B&K Tax Service, Inc.
Dingmans Choice & Delaware Bridge Co.
Manko Gold Katcher Fox LLP
Patagonia
PennyWise Fuel Company
Ready Set Run
Reinhart Foodservice, LLC
Kilometer Sign Sponsors
Abel HR
Ann & Joseph Farda Foundation
Belle Reve Senior Living
CPA Rifles
Davis R. Chant Realtors
Dingmans Ferry Stone
ESSA Bank & Trust
George Ely & Associates
Hotel Fauchere
Mander Fire and Safety, Inc.
Myer & Myer CPA
Pie’s On Italian American Family Restaurant
Pike County Light & Power Company
Pike County Outfitters
State Senator Lisa Baker
Paid for by the Baker for Senate Committee
Strand Pool Supply
Target Fire Protection
Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers
Wrenches Auto Repair
PEEC’s 3rd Annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Event
April 11, 2019
Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, remarks, “The trail is challenging, but the scenery is amazingly varied and beautiful, so you hardly feel the hills.”
If you enjoy running through the woods, leaping over streams, glimpsing a wild turkey, and breathing the spring air, then you need to join us on May 4th for the 3rd annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl in the wilds of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting its 3rd annual fundraiser for its environmental education programs. Over 15,000 students attend PEEC’s environmental education programs annually.
The race will begin at 10am and takes place almost entirely on the hiking trails located at the center. Local support for the event has grown since its first year and this year PEEC is looking to increase the number of competitors. The top 3 finishers in each age category will receive a special medal and the overall first place winner will receive the grand prize. As a non-profit, PEEC depends heavily on the goodwill of others and race participants will be supporting PEEC directly by registering to compete.
This race provides a great opportunity to enjoy the PEEC campus trails in an entirely different perspective. PEEC’s Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky perfectly summed up his experience as a fellow competitor, “The trail is challenging, but the scenery is amazingly varied and beautiful, so you hardly feel the hills.” This course certainly isn’t for the faint hearted, but it’s that sense of challenge and accomplishment that keeps previous participants coming back. Sheri Bone, who has raced the previous 2 years had this to share, “It was an exhilarating, albeit exhausting, race! I am going to run again!”
Those who are interested in registering can visit: https://peec.org/5k. Guests who register by April 13th, 2019 are also guaranteed a special PEEC 5k t-shirt in the size of their choice.
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year. For more information, please contact George Johnson, Weekend Workshop Manager, at (570) 828-2319 or gjohnson@peec.org
PEEC 2019 Earth Day Celebration
March 29, 2019
Celebrate Earth and learn how you can join in the stewardship of our beautiful planet this Earth Day!
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting its 24th annual Earth Day festival. This year, it will be Saturday, April 27th, and will run from 11 A.M. until 4 P.M., rain or shine, at PEEC’s campus in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
PEEC’s dedicated staff and volunteers are excited to host a day of learning, celebration, and appreciation for nature. Their regular Earth Day activities—everything from vendors and exhibitors to creative crafts to games and activities to live music—will make a return this year. You can visit the hands-on exhibits in the EcoZone and hike a local trail with an expert guide. At the end of the day, see a presentation by Eyes of the Wild, who will be introducing animal friends from around the world. For $5 per car, you have full access to all that the festival has to offer! Food & drinks will also be available at the Dining Hall for an additional charge.
New for Earth Day in 2019 will be an electronics recycling program in partnership with Electronics Recyclers International. For the cost of admission to the event, you can recycle computers, laptops, monitors & televisions, and most computer accessories. Items with Freon in them can also be recycled for the price of $15 per item, and any other acceptable electronics will be charged based on weight. PEEC reserves the right to refuse to accept items.
PEEC is also kicking off a recycling challenge in partnership with Trex! Did you know that plastic bags, including grocery bags, bread bags, and storage bags, can be recycled if you take them to the right place? Beginning at Earth Day, and continuing until Fall Family Fun Day, PEEC will be collecting plastic bags to be recycled by Trex and turned into a durable building material. With your help, PEEC is hoping to collect 500 pounds of plastic, or the equivalent of 42,000 grocery bags!
“Our Earth Day festivals keep getting better every year,” said Nathan Lanan, the Special Events Coordinator and Assistant Camp Manager at PEEC. “Between our consistently amazing returning attractions and the new recycling programs, I couldn’t be more excited for the event this year!”
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC Announces Angling and Hunting for Conservation Luncheon
A celebration of conservation in the Poconos will take place at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Shawnee on the Delaware, PA.
On March 23, 2019, the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will convene the Angling and Hunting for Conservation Luncheon at the Shawnee Inn. The luncheon is intended to celebrate the wonderful heritage of hunting and fishing in the Poconos and invite outdoor enthusiasts from throughout the region to learn about conservation opportunities for the legacy lands, the region’s hunt clubs. PEEC expects the public event to draw a healthy crowd in the run up to open season on trout fishing in the Poconos, which takes place on March 30, 2019.
The luncheon will feature keynote speaker, conservationist and noted writer, Thomas Gilmore. The author of six books on fly fishing will sign his book titled “Flyfisher’s Guide to Pennsylvania”. He will present a new program titled, “Fly fishing the Delaware and its Tributaries”. The afternoon will also feature a slate of speakers including Susan LaCroix, Land Protection Coordinator of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, “Conserving Your Land”; Michele Long, Executive Director of the Pike County Conservation District, “Manage Your Woodlands”; and Chris Barrett, CEO of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau will close with a plea for their Pocono Mountains’ “Anti-Litter Campaign”.
Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “PEEC is proud and privileged to host a wonderful event that acknowledges the success of the first conservationists, the angling and hunting community of the Poconos, who have helped preserve this treasured region for decades. We are hopeful that PEEC can inspire further education and conservation of the Delaware River watershed and we can work more closely together on future challenges.”
The event is funded by the Alliance for Watershed Education and sponsored by the Pocono Mountain Visitors Bureau. Register at www.peec.org/luncheon.
Sanofi Funds PEEC’s Sci-Q Project for 2019
March 7, 2019
Sanofi has awarded the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) a grant of $28,061 to fund the Sci-Q Project for 2019. PEEC’s Sci-Q Project is a week-long summer science experience for talented 8th to 10th graders interested in pursuing science careers. As the exclusive funder of the Sci-Q Project, Sanofi continues its strong commitment to STEM education in Northeast Pennsylvania.
The Sci-Q Project provides students with the opportunity to interact with college professors, hand-picked for their fun, approachable nature, as they showcase their research in a variety of fascinating fields. Students engage in hand-on science and engineering projects that challenge them and provide opportunities for finding novel and creative solutions. The professors share their personal career stories and the challenges and rewards of becoming scientists.
Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “PEEC is proud and privileged to receive the generous funding from Sanofi for the Sci-Q Project. Sanofi has supported PEEC and this program for many years and the results are truly remarkable.”
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
For more information about Sci-Q, please contact PEEC at 570-828-2319 or check www.peec.org/sci-q.
PEEC Receives $2,500 Donation from Waste Management
January 2, 2019
The Pocono Environmental Education Center received a $2,500 donation today from Waste Management. The company made the contribution as part of Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center is a non-profit organization that provides environmental education programs throughout the year to over 15,000 youth. EITC funding will support several varied weekend education programs for students including the EcoZone Discovery Room free program days.
“Waste Management is dedicated to environmental education and we believe in the great programming facilitated at the Pocono Environmental Education Center,” commented Waste Management’s Community Relations Manager, Adrienne Fors.
“PEEC is extremely grateful for the generous support of Waste Management through the EITC program,” said Jeff Rosalsky, Executive Director of PEEC, “and we look forward to providing many new environmental and sustainability education programs in 2019.”
Waste Management of Pennsylvania is dedicated to environmental protection, education and supporting the communities where we operate. Since the EITC program was launched, Waste Management has made grants worth over $15,791,307 that have improved the educational opportunities of thousands of public school students and helped thousands of other children and young adults attend private schools.
ABOUT WASTE MANAGEMENT’S GREATER MID-ATLANTIC AREA
Waste Management’s Greater Mid-Atlantic Area (GMA) includes the company’s operations in eastern and central Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York City, Delaware and on the DelMarVa Peninsula. The area’s central office is in Ewing, N.J. The GMA employs about 3,000 professionals dedicated to protecting and improving the environment.
POCONO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER TO HOST RIVER DAYS EVENT OCTOBER 6, 2018
One of 23 Environmental Education Centers in PA, NJ and DE to Host River Days, a Month-long Series of Events on Local Trails and Waterways
September 12, 2018
WHAT: River Days will take place concurrent to PEEC’s Annual Harvest Festival. We’ll be hosting paddling programs and interpretive hikes to encourage our guests to recreate within the Delaware River Watershed, while at the same time discussing the importance of stewardship. Those who participate will be entered in a chance to win a kayak or an inflatable raft while also receiving River Days canvas bags and an ice cream treat!
WHEN: October 6, 2018 – 11:00am-4:00pm
WHERE: Pocono Environmental Education Center, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328
WHY: September marks the start of the second annual “River Days”, a month-long recreational event series hosted by the Alliance for Watershed Education of the Delaware River with a mission to encourage individuals of all ages to explore, enjoy and engage in activities along their local rivers and streams with the ultimate goal of increasing awareness and fostering protection of this critical resource. Funded and supported by the William Penn Foundation, the Alliance is a regional initiative of 23 partnering environmental education centers located on the Delaware River Watershed and the Circuit Trail in Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
The Delaware River watershed is a 13,500 square mile system that provides clean drinking water for more than 15 million people, nearly 5% of the United States’ population. The watershed is important to a multitude of species and ecological habitats, and provides recreation for cyclists, hikers, paddlers and other outdoor enthusiasts. This is especially important in the area surrounding PEEC given our location upstream from a large portion of the population that relies on the Delaware River. There’s a wide array of fun and environmental-minded activities scheduled for River Days by 23 partnering environmental organizations on the watershed. Find details at: watershedalliance.org
WHO: Pocono Environmental Education Center, Alliance for Watershed Education of the Delaware River, the William Penn Foundation
For more information, visit watershedalliance.org.
PEEC 2018 Harvest Festival
September 5, 2018
Enjoy the changing seasons here at PEEC’s Harvest Festival. Spend a day surrounded by family and friends at a place that rejuvenates the mind and inspires our natural curiosity.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 8th annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 6th, 2018. The event will take place from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine. New to our Harvest Festival event for 2018 will be our “reduce, reuse, recycle” scarecrow contest. Visitors will be able to vote for their favorite scarecrow.
PEEC’s Harvest Festival is a fun, holistic opportunity to learn more about sustainability, the local environment, and a chance to connect to nature. Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, or simply enjoy an interpretive hike. There will also be awesome crafts and plenty of games to play! For a more casual experience, come and relax among friends, grab a bite to eat, and listen to live music. The cost to attend is $5 per car and includes a live animal show and much, much more. Food and drink will also be available at an additional cost.
Crafts will include face painting, stick wands, and PEEC’s popular tie-dye station. Tie dye can be a great way to add additional years to old or lightly stained clothing. Bring white cotton shirts, pillowcases, bandanas, or other items to add a creative color burst. A limited number of white bandanas will be available for purchase. Vendors and exhibits at the 2018 festival provide a way for community members to meet and interact with local organizations, businesses, and artists.
PEEC’s 2018 River Days event will also take place during Harvest Festival. Join us for interpretive hikes and paddle programs to encourage use of the Delaware River Watershed and enter a free raffle for a chance to win a kayak or inflatable raft.
According to Ricky Bennett, PEEC’s Special Events Coordinator, “Our Harvest Festival is more than a festival; it is time spent with family and friends, a time to slow down and enjoy nature, a time to rejuvenate. Come be a part of our community; we have something for everyone.”
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC Gains Grant for Outreach in Northeast PA
Greater Pike Community Foundation entrusts PEEC with $5000 to Attract Families
August 16, 2018
On August 7, 2018 the Greater Pike Community Foundation awarded the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) a $5000 grant to subsidize the 2019 PEEC Marketing and Outreach Plan. The grant will cover the cost of publicity, literature and material for a half dozen events scheduled in 2018 and 2019 with the primary goal of attracting the general public from Pike County and communities from northeast Pennsylvania and northwest New Jersey.
The targeted events are part of an ongoing series of activities designed and proven to attract residents, especially families from the region. PEEC’s annual 5K Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race will enter its third year. The other events include the Harvest Festival, Farm to Table Dinner, Earth Day Festival and the Game Dinner, along with 9 tours of the interactive Eco Zone Discovery Room. In previous years, these events have attracted thousands of attendees as they have increased in popularity.
Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “PEEC is proud and privileged to receive funding from the Greater Pike Community Foundation for our programming.”
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as an education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
PEEC 2018 Watershed Weekends
July 25, 2018
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) hosted its first Watershed Weekend event on July 21, 2018. Visitors at PEEC had the opportunity to learn more about the birds that live in the Delaware River Watershed, including summer tanagers, warblers, and towhees through fun hands-on activities and interpretive hikes.
Visitors also learned about the importance of the Delaware River Watershed and conservation of this vital ecosystem. The event had something for every age, and all of the program fees were waived. PEEC will be hosting another three Watershed Weekend events highlighting different species in the watershed including insects, plants, and reptiles & amphibians. These events will also be free.
The Insect Edition of Watershed Weekend will be on Sunday, July 29, and will feature aquatic and terrestrial insect searches, a dragonfly hunt, watershed games, and a late night moth survey. The Plant Edition will take place on Saturday, August 4, and will feature a plant identification hike, public access to PEEC’s EcoZone Discovery Room, watershed games, and arts and craft projects. The final Watershed Weekend will take place on Sunday, August 12, and will feature reptiles and amphibians. This event will include a reptile and amphibian search, watershed games, and public access to the EcoZone Discovery Room.
For more information, visit PEEC’s website at www.peec.org, the Pocono Environmental Education Center Facebook page, or Instagram at peec_pa.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Pocono Mountains Blog
Insider’s Guide to Delaware Water Gap
Read about the history of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and learn about current activities and recreation spots, including PEEC!
The Delaware Water Gap, which straddles the Delaware River along the Pennsylvania-New Jersey state line, is an historic destination that offers some of the Poconos’ best hiking, cycling, boating, and camping. With is concentration of waterfalls and scenic outlooks, this 70,000-acre protected area draws visitors from across the East Coast to enjoy its natural beauty. Read More
Environment Wins at PEEC 5K Run
Second Annual Run, Hike, Crawl Musters 50+ Runners
May 7, 2018
The second annual Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) 5K Trail Race – Run, Hike, Crawl, through the ravines, gurgling streams and deep forest of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area’s Pocono Plateau, was a celebration of intrepid runners, a brilliant spring day and the rich environment we enjoy. Fifty+ runners of all ages negotiated the campus walkways and portions of the Fossil and Scenic Gorge Trail on a seasonably cool and cloudy May Saturday.
Six age groups, 12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+ produced both male and female winners of a field of 55 runners. The top runners are Roman Zhmurenka for the Men’s category and Bonnie Sacher for the Women’s category. The prizes for the winners were outdoor outerwear donated by Patagonia, Inc.
Dozens of local and regional businesses and donors enthusiastically supported the PEEC 5K Trail Race – Run, Hike, Crawl. PEEC would like to thank:
Presenting Sponsor: AM Skier Insurance
Platinum Sponsor: The Greater Pike Community Foundation, The Dime Bank; Ready, Set Run
Silver Sponsor: ShawneeCraft Brewery; ReppertFactor; Patagonia; CPA Rifles; Manko, Gold, Katcher &Fox; PennyWise Fuel; Walmart; Dingmans Choice and Delaware Bridge Company, B & K Tax Service
Kilometer Sign Sponsor: Myer & Myer CPA, 108 Lotus Yoga, Weis Markets, Nikki Jones Agency, Target Fire Protection, Belle Reve Senior Living, Comanche Tree Service, Davis R. Chant Real Estate, Edge of the Woods Outfitters, DP Luhrs True Value Hardware, Pike County Power and Light Company.
Together we raised nearly $11,000 for environmental education. Kudos to all of our loyal and generous sponsors whose support enables PEEC to continue its mission!
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as an education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over a million visitants have explored PEEC while 25,000 come to our campus annually.
PEEC 2018 Earth Day Celebration
March 27, 2018
What better way to celebrate Earth Day than surrounded by family and friends at a place that rejuvenates the mind and inspires our natural curiosity.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 23rd annual Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 28th, 2018. The event will take place from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine. New to our Earth Day event for 2018 will be a poetry contest.
PEEC’s Earth Day festival is a fun, holistic opportunity to learn more about sustainability, the local environment, and a chance to connect to nature. Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, or simply go on an interpretive hike. There will also be awesome crafts and plenty of games to play! For a more casual experience, come and relax among friends, grab a bite to eat, and listen to live music. The cost to attend is $5 per car and includes a live animal show and much, much more. Food and drink will also be available at an additional cost.
Crafts will include face painting, weaving, and PEEC’s popular tie-dye station. Tie dye can be a great way to add additional years to old or lightly stained clothing. Bring white cotton shirts, pillowcases, bandanas, or other items to add a creative color burst. A limited number of white bandanas will be available for purchase at the PEEC store.
According to Ricky Bennett, PEEC’s Assistant Camp Director/ Special Events Coordinator, “Our Earth Day festival is more than a festival, it is time spent with family and friends, a time to enjoy nature. Come, be a part of our community; we have something for everyone.”
Vendors and exhibits at the 2018 festival provide a way for community members to meet and interact with local organizations, businesses, and artists. Some of the planned activities and opportunities with vendors and exhibitors include casting demonstrations by members of Trout Unlimited, planting seed opportunities with Dingmans Ferry Bridge Historical Society as well as our local 4-H organization, and spinning and weaving demonstrations by Quiet Valley Farms.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
2018/2019 Press Releases
PEEC’s 9th Annual Harvest Festival: Hikes, Games, Music, Crafts & More!
October 4, 2019
On Saturday, October 12, join the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) for the 9th annual Harvest Festival, complete with vendors, exhibits, live music, classes, guided hikes, crafts, and more! Harvest Festival will run from 11:00am until 4:00pm for $5.00 per car. Join PEEC in welcoming Fall and celebrating the beautiful planet we live on!
This year, 4 guided hikes will be available throughout the day, hosted by PEEC staff and guest speakers. Topics will include edible and medicinal plants, the many changes of autumn, and the updates to PEEC’S trails after the damage from Winter Storm Riley in 2018.
Harvest Festival is hosted in partnership with the Alliance for Watershed Education on the Delaware River as part of PEEC’s River Days events. For River Days, PEEC will be hosting basic kayaking lessons and instruction on the pond led by an American Canoeing Association certified kayaking instructor. While spaces will be limited for kayaking, open canoeing will be available throughout the day.
For many years, PEEC has been proud to support local businesses, and this year is no exception. A variety of local vendors will be selling goods ranging from crystals and fossils to soaps and candles to baked goods and jams. Many community organizations and craftsmen will be presenting on topics ranging from blacksmithing to therapeutic horses.
PEEC will also be hosting crafts and games for visitors of all ages. The always popular tie-dye station will be back, along with upcycled and traditional crafts.
Friends of PEEC will be performing and hosting activities during Harvest Festival. Donna, a volunteer, will have an open hula hoop station with instruction to introduce visitors to hula hoop dancing; Dr. Bob will bring his chainsaw and carve a new work of art; and Larry will be playing live music. The event will conclude with an animal presentation by Pocono Snake and Animal Farm which will introduce visitors to animals from around the world!
At Earth Day in the spring, PEEC began a plastic film recycling challenge in partnership with Trex. Trex will be taking the bags donated to PEEC and turning them into a durable and environmentally friendly building material. This challenge ends at Harvest Festival, and PEEC is still working toward the 500 pound goal! You can bring any clean plastic bags or similar material to PEEC during the Harvest Festival or any time PEEC is open beforehand!
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
Marketing & Outreach Grant Award to PEEC
September 5, 2019
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) received a $3,750 grant award from The Greater Pike Community Foundation: Richard L. Snyder Fund to support marketing & outreach for 2019-2020.
With this grant award, the Greater Pike Community Foundation: Richard L. Snyder Fund will support PEEC’s 4th Annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race; the annual fall Harvest Festival; and the ever popular PEEC Earth Day Celebration, along with other weekend community activities. A list of PEEC’s public programs can be found at www.peec.org.
PEEC Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “The Greater Pike Community Foundation is a wonderful organization and we appreciate their support. This grant will enable us to continue to offer educational and fun environmental programs to the community.”
The Greater Pike Community Foundation was created to enable generous individuals, families, and local businesses to maximize their charitable support through organized, targeted, long-term community philanthropy. The Foundation provides a permanent and personal way to give back to the region we love and have worked so hard to nurture and maintain. For information about establishing a fund in memory of a loved one, or to discuss how to realize your charitable goal for the future, please contact Jim Pedranti at: info@greaterpike.org or 570-832-4686, or visit our website at www.greaterpike.org or our Facebook page at Facebook.com/GreaterPike.
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
Sanofi Funds PEEC’s Sci-Q Project for 2020
July 17, 2019
Sanofi awarded the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) a grant of $29,586 to fund the Sci-Q Project for 2020. PEEC’s Sci-Q Project is a week-long summer science experience for talented 8th to 10th graders interested in pursuing science careers. As the exclusive funder of the Sci-Q Project, Sanofi continues its strong commitment to STEM education in Northeast Pennsylvania.
The Sci-Q Project provides students with the opportunity to interact with college professors, hand-picked for their fun, approachable nature, as they showcase their research in a variety of fascinating fields. Students engage in hand-on science and engineering projects that challenge them and provide opportunities for finding novel and creative solutions. The professors share their personal career stories and the challenges and rewards of becoming scientists.
Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “PEEC is proud and privileged to receive the generous funding from Sanofi for the Sci-Q Project. Sanofi has supported PEEC and this program for many years and the results are truly remarkable.”
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
A PEEC Day of Winners at the 3rd Annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race
May 7, 2019
To the delight of spectators, PEEC supporters, and fellow runners, Noah Hinger, a 12 year old from Summit, New Jersey, sprinted across the finish line in a swift 32 minutes and 53 seconds to take first place in PEEC’s 3rd Annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race. Right behind was his dad, Chris Hinger who finished second and Jerry Sandaldjian ended in third place.
A cool and cloudy day, with temperatures hovering in the mid-fifties, was perfect for running. Sandra Orson, Jennifer Nagy and Yazmin Malpica were the first, second and third place winners in the Women’s category.
2019 PEEC 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race Winners:
Men |
Women |
Overall 1. Noah Hinger 2. Chris Hinger 3. Jerry Sandaldjian |
Overall 1. Sandra Orson 2. Jennifer Nagy 3. Yazmin Malpica |
12 and Under 1. Jackson Hancock 2. Maxwell Hancock 3. Sean Winship |
|
20-29 1. Jason Van Duyne |
20-29 1. Natasha Sandaldjian |
30-39 1. Joe Geib |
30-39 1. Amanda Schwartz |
40-49 1. Charles Peters 2. Mitchell Malpica 3. Adam Shedd |
50-59 1. Joyce Trentacosta 2. Karen Macaulay 3. Mariedyth Gayas |
50-59 1. Marco Castillo 2. George Bevans 3. Dennis Greenland |
|
60+ 1. Anthony Batko 2. Warren Hecker 3. Jeffrey Van Duyne |
60+ 1. Sheri Bone 2. Jane Jacobs 3. Diane Van Duyne |
The 3rd Annual 5K Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race was an all-around winner. This year, PEEC raised over $15,000 to further the environmental education of school groups; 40% more than 2018. We thank all of our sponsors who enthusiastically gave generously this year. We are humbled and privileged to have so many local and regional businesses support PEEC’s mission.
Presenting Sponsor
AM Skier Agency, Inc.
Platinum Sponsors
Greater Pike Community Foundation
Pine Forest Camp
The Dime Bank
Silver Sponsors
B&K Tax Service, Inc.
Dingmans Choice & Delaware Bridge Co.
Manko Gold Katcher Fox LLP
Patagonia
PennyWise Fuel Company
Ready Set Run
Reinhart Foodservice, LLC
Kilometer Sign Sponsors
Abel HR
Ann & Joseph Farda Foundation
Belle Reve Senior Living
CPA Rifles
Davis R. Chant Realtors
Dingmans Ferry Stone
ESSA Bank & Trust
George Ely & Associates
Hotel Fauchere
Mander Fire and Safety, Inc.
Myer & Myer CPA
Pie’s On Italian American Family Restaurant
Pike County Light & Power Company
Pike County Outfitters
State Senator Lisa Baker
Paid for by the Baker for Senate Committee
Strand Pool Supply
Target Fire Protection
Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers
Wrenches Auto Repair
PEEC’s 3rd Annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl Event
April 11, 2019
Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, remarks, “The trail is challenging, but the scenery is amazingly varied and beautiful, so you hardly feel the hills.”
If you enjoy running through the woods, leaping over streams, glimpsing a wild turkey, and breathing the spring air, then you need to join us on May 4th for the 3rd annual 5k Run, Hike, Crawl in the wilds of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting its 3rd annual fundraiser for its environmental education programs. Over 15,000 students attend PEEC’s environmental education programs annually.
The race will begin at 10am and takes place almost entirely on the hiking trails located at the center. Local support for the event has grown since its first year and this year PEEC is looking to increase the number of competitors. The top 3 finishers in each age category will receive a special medal and the overall first place winner will receive the grand prize. As a non-profit, PEEC depends heavily on the goodwill of others and race participants will be supporting PEEC directly by registering to compete.
This race provides a great opportunity to enjoy the PEEC campus trails in an entirely different perspective. PEEC’s Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky perfectly summed up his experience as a fellow competitor, “The trail is challenging, but the scenery is amazingly varied and beautiful, so you hardly feel the hills.” This course certainly isn’t for the faint hearted, but it’s that sense of challenge and accomplishment that keeps previous participants coming back. Sheri Bone, who has raced the previous 2 years had this to share, “It was an exhilarating, albeit exhausting, race! I am going to run again!”
Those who are interested in registering can visit: https://peec.org/5k. Guests who register by April 13th, 2019 are also guaranteed a special PEEC 5k t-shirt in the size of their choice.
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year. For more information, please contact George Johnson, Weekend Workshop Manager, at (570) 828-2319 or gjohnson@peec.org
PEEC 2019 Earth Day Celebration
March 29, 2019
Celebrate Earth and learn how you can join in the stewardship of our beautiful planet this Earth Day!
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting its 24th annual Earth Day festival. This year, it will be Saturday, April 27th, and will run from 11 A.M. until 4 P.M., rain or shine, at PEEC’s campus in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
PEEC’s dedicated staff and volunteers are excited to host a day of learning, celebration, and appreciation for nature. Their regular Earth Day activities—everything from vendors and exhibitors to creative crafts to games and activities to live music—will make a return this year. You can visit the hands-on exhibits in the EcoZone and hike a local trail with an expert guide. At the end of the day, see a presentation by Eyes of the Wild, who will be introducing animal friends from around the world. For $5 per car, you have full access to all that the festival has to offer! Food & drinks will also be available at the Dining Hall for an additional charge.
New for Earth Day in 2019 will be an electronics recycling program in partnership with Electronics Recyclers International. For the cost of admission to the event, you can recycle computers, laptops, monitors & televisions, and most computer accessories. Items with Freon in them can also be recycled for the price of $15 per item, and any other acceptable electronics will be charged based on weight. PEEC reserves the right to refuse to accept items.
PEEC is also kicking off a recycling challenge in partnership with Trex! Did you know that plastic bags, including grocery bags, bread bags, and storage bags, can be recycled if you take them to the right place? Beginning at Earth Day, and continuing until Fall Family Fun Day, PEEC will be collecting plastic bags to be recycled by Trex and turned into a durable building material. With your help, PEEC is hoping to collect 500 pounds of plastic, or the equivalent of 42,000 grocery bags!
“Our Earth Day festivals keep getting better every year,” said Nathan Lanan, the Special Events Coordinator and Assistant Camp Manager at PEEC. “Between our consistently amazing returning attractions and the new recycling programs, I couldn’t be more excited for the event this year!”
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC Announces Angling and Hunting for Conservation Luncheon
A celebration of conservation in the Poconos will take place at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Shawnee on the Delaware, PA.
On March 23, 2019, the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will convene the Angling and Hunting for Conservation Luncheon at the Shawnee Inn. The luncheon is intended to celebrate the wonderful heritage of hunting and fishing in the Poconos and invite outdoor enthusiasts from throughout the region to learn about conservation opportunities for the legacy lands, the region’s hunt clubs. PEEC expects the public event to draw a healthy crowd in the run up to open season on trout fishing in the Poconos, which takes place on March 30, 2019.
The luncheon will feature keynote speaker, conservationist and noted writer, Thomas Gilmore. The author of six books on fly fishing will sign his book titled “Flyfisher’s Guide to Pennsylvania”. He will present a new program titled, “Fly fishing the Delaware and its Tributaries”. The afternoon will also feature a slate of speakers including Susan LaCroix, Land Protection Coordinator of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, “Conserving Your Land”; Michele Long, Executive Director of the Pike County Conservation District, “Manage Your Woodlands”; and Chris Barrett, CEO of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau will close with a plea for their Pocono Mountains’ “Anti-Litter Campaign”.
Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “PEEC is proud and privileged to host a wonderful event that acknowledges the success of the first conservationists, the angling and hunting community of the Poconos, who have helped preserve this treasured region for decades. We are hopeful that PEEC can inspire further education and conservation of the Delaware River watershed and we can work more closely together on future challenges.”
The event is funded by the Alliance for Watershed Education and sponsored by the Pocono Mountain Visitors Bureau. Register at www.peec.org/luncheon.
Sanofi Funds PEEC’s Sci-Q Project for 2019
March 7, 2019
Sanofi has awarded the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) a grant of $28,061 to fund the Sci-Q Project for 2019. PEEC’s Sci-Q Project is a week-long summer science experience for talented 8th to 10th graders interested in pursuing science careers. As the exclusive funder of the Sci-Q Project, Sanofi continues its strong commitment to STEM education in Northeast Pennsylvania.
The Sci-Q Project provides students with the opportunity to interact with college professors, hand-picked for their fun, approachable nature, as they showcase their research in a variety of fascinating fields. Students engage in hand-on science and engineering projects that challenge them and provide opportunities for finding novel and creative solutions. The professors share their personal career stories and the challenges and rewards of becoming scientists.
Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “PEEC is proud and privileged to receive the generous funding from Sanofi for the Sci-Q Project. Sanofi has supported PEEC and this program for many years and the results are truly remarkable.”
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
For more information about Sci-Q, please contact PEEC at 570-828-2319 or check www.peec.org/sci-q.
PEEC Receives $2,500 Donation from Waste Management
January 2, 2019
The Pocono Environmental Education Center received a $2,500 donation today from Waste Management. The company made the contribution as part of Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center is a non-profit organization that provides environmental education programs throughout the year to over 15,000 youth. EITC funding will support several varied weekend education programs for students including the EcoZone Discovery Room free program days.
“Waste Management is dedicated to environmental education and we believe in the great programming facilitated at the Pocono Environmental Education Center,” commented Waste Management’s Community Relations Manager, Adrienne Fors.
“PEEC is extremely grateful for the generous support of Waste Management through the EITC program,” said Jeff Rosalsky, Executive Director of PEEC, “and we look forward to providing many new environmental and sustainability education programs in 2019.”
Waste Management of Pennsylvania is dedicated to environmental protection, education and supporting the communities where we operate. Since the EITC program was launched, Waste Management has made grants worth over $15,791,307 that have improved the educational opportunities of thousands of public school students and helped thousands of other children and young adults attend private schools.
ABOUT WASTE MANAGEMENT’S GREATER MID-ATLANTIC AREA
Waste Management’s Greater Mid-Atlantic Area (GMA) includes the company’s operations in eastern and central Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York City, Delaware and on the DelMarVa Peninsula. The area’s central office is in Ewing, N.J. The GMA employs about 3,000 professionals dedicated to protecting and improving the environment.
POCONO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER TO HOST RIVER DAYS EVENT OCTOBER 6, 2018
One of 23 Environmental Education Centers in PA, NJ and DE to Host River Days, a Month-long Series of Events on Local Trails and Waterways
September 12, 2018
WHAT: River Days will take place concurrent to PEEC’s Annual Harvest Festival. We’ll be hosting paddling programs and interpretive hikes to encourage our guests to recreate within the Delaware River Watershed, while at the same time discussing the importance of stewardship. Those who participate will be entered in a chance to win a kayak or an inflatable raft while also receiving River Days canvas bags and an ice cream treat!
WHEN: October 6, 2018 – 11:00am-4:00pm
WHERE: Pocono Environmental Education Center, 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328
WHY: September marks the start of the second annual “River Days”, a month-long recreational event series hosted by the Alliance for Watershed Education of the Delaware River with a mission to encourage individuals of all ages to explore, enjoy and engage in activities along their local rivers and streams with the ultimate goal of increasing awareness and fostering protection of this critical resource. Funded and supported by the William Penn Foundation, the Alliance is a regional initiative of 23 partnering environmental education centers located on the Delaware River Watershed and the Circuit Trail in Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
The Delaware River watershed is a 13,500 square mile system that provides clean drinking water for more than 15 million people, nearly 5% of the United States’ population. The watershed is important to a multitude of species and ecological habitats, and provides recreation for cyclists, hikers, paddlers and other outdoor enthusiasts. This is especially important in the area surrounding PEEC given our location upstream from a large portion of the population that relies on the Delaware River. There’s a wide array of fun and environmental-minded activities scheduled for River Days by 23 partnering environmental organizations on the watershed. Find details at: watershedalliance.org
WHO: Pocono Environmental Education Center, Alliance for Watershed Education of the Delaware River, the William Penn Foundation
For more information, visit watershedalliance.org.
PEEC 2018 Harvest Festival
September 5, 2018
Enjoy the changing seasons here at PEEC’s Harvest Festival. Spend a day surrounded by family and friends at a place that rejuvenates the mind and inspires our natural curiosity.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 8th annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 6th, 2018. The event will take place from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine. New to our Harvest Festival event for 2018 will be our “reduce, reuse, recycle” scarecrow contest. Visitors will be able to vote for their favorite scarecrow.
PEEC’s Harvest Festival is a fun, holistic opportunity to learn more about sustainability, the local environment, and a chance to connect to nature. Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, or simply enjoy an interpretive hike. There will also be awesome crafts and plenty of games to play! For a more casual experience, come and relax among friends, grab a bite to eat, and listen to live music. The cost to attend is $5 per car and includes a live animal show and much, much more. Food and drink will also be available at an additional cost.
Crafts will include face painting, stick wands, and PEEC’s popular tie-dye station. Tie dye can be a great way to add additional years to old or lightly stained clothing. Bring white cotton shirts, pillowcases, bandanas, or other items to add a creative color burst. A limited number of white bandanas will be available for purchase. Vendors and exhibits at the 2018 festival provide a way for community members to meet and interact with local organizations, businesses, and artists.
PEEC’s 2018 River Days event will also take place during Harvest Festival. Join us for interpretive hikes and paddle programs to encourage use of the Delaware River Watershed and enter a free raffle for a chance to win a kayak or inflatable raft.
According to Ricky Bennett, PEEC’s Special Events Coordinator, “Our Harvest Festival is more than a festival; it is time spent with family and friends, a time to slow down and enjoy nature, a time to rejuvenate. Come be a part of our community; we have something for everyone.”
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC Gains Grant for Outreach in Northeast PA
Greater Pike Community Foundation entrusts PEEC with $5000 to Attract Families
August 16, 2018
On August 7, 2018 the Greater Pike Community Foundation awarded the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) a $5000 grant to subsidize the 2019 PEEC Marketing and Outreach Plan. The grant will cover the cost of publicity, literature and material for a half dozen events scheduled in 2018 and 2019 with the primary goal of attracting the general public from Pike County and communities from northeast Pennsylvania and northwest New Jersey.
The targeted events are part of an ongoing series of activities designed and proven to attract residents, especially families from the region. PEEC’s annual 5K Run, Hike, Crawl Trail Race will enter its third year. The other events include the Harvest Festival, Farm to Table Dinner, Earth Day Festival and the Game Dinner, along with 9 tours of the interactive Eco Zone Discovery Room. In previous years, these events have attracted thousands of attendees as they have increased in popularity.
Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky stated, “PEEC is proud and privileged to receive funding from the Greater Pike Community Foundation for our programming.”
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as an education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
PEEC 2018 Watershed Weekends
July 25, 2018
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) hosted its first Watershed Weekend event on July 21, 2018. Visitors at PEEC had the opportunity to learn more about the birds that live in the Delaware River Watershed, including summer tanagers, warblers, and towhees through fun hands-on activities and interpretive hikes.
Visitors also learned about the importance of the Delaware River Watershed and conservation of this vital ecosystem. The event had something for every age, and all of the program fees were waived. PEEC will be hosting another three Watershed Weekend events highlighting different species in the watershed including insects, plants, and reptiles & amphibians. These events will also be free.
The Insect Edition of Watershed Weekend will be on Sunday, July 29, and will feature aquatic and terrestrial insect searches, a dragonfly hunt, watershed games, and a late night moth survey. The Plant Edition will take place on Saturday, August 4, and will feature a plant identification hike, public access to PEEC’s EcoZone Discovery Room, watershed games, and arts and craft projects. The final Watershed Weekend will take place on Sunday, August 12, and will feature reptiles and amphibians. This event will include a reptile and amphibian search, watershed games, and public access to the EcoZone Discovery Room.
For more information, visit PEEC’s website at www.peec.org, the Pocono Environmental Education Center Facebook page, or Instagram at peec_pa.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Pocono Mountains Blog
Insider’s Guide to Delaware Water Gap
Read about the history of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and learn about current activities and recreation spots, including PEEC!
The Delaware Water Gap, which straddles the Delaware River along the Pennsylvania-New Jersey state line, is an historic destination that offers some of the Poconos’ best hiking, cycling, boating, and camping. With is concentration of waterfalls and scenic outlooks, this 70,000-acre protected area draws visitors from across the East Coast to enjoy its natural beauty. Read More
Environment Wins at PEEC 5K Run
Second Annual Run, Hike, Crawl Musters 50+ Runners
May 7, 2018
The second annual Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) 5K Trail Race – Run, Hike, Crawl, through the ravines, gurgling streams and deep forest of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area’s Pocono Plateau, was a celebration of intrepid runners, a brilliant spring day and the rich environment we enjoy. Fifty+ runners of all ages negotiated the campus walkways and portions of the Fossil and Scenic Gorge Trail on a seasonably cool and cloudy May Saturday.
Six age groups, 12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+ produced both male and female winners of a field of 55 runners. The top runners are Roman Zhmurenka for the Men’s category and Bonnie Sacher for the Women’s category. The prizes for the winners were outdoor outerwear donated by Patagonia, Inc.
Dozens of local and regional businesses and donors enthusiastically supported the PEEC 5K Trail Race – Run, Hike, Crawl. PEEC would like to thank:
Presenting Sponsor: AM Skier Insurance
Platinum Sponsor: The Greater Pike Community Foundation, The Dime Bank; Ready, Set Run
Silver Sponsor: ShawneeCraft Brewery; ReppertFactor; Patagonia; CPA Rifles; Manko, Gold, Katcher &Fox; PennyWise Fuel; Walmart; Dingmans Choice and Delaware Bridge Company, B & K Tax Service
Kilometer Sign Sponsor: Myer & Myer CPA, 108 Lotus Yoga, Weis Markets, Nikki Jones Agency, Target Fire Protection, Belle Reve Senior Living, Comanche Tree Service, Davis R. Chant Real Estate, Edge of the Woods Outfitters, DP Luhrs True Value Hardware, Pike County Power and Light Company.
Together we raised nearly $11,000 for environmental education. Kudos to all of our loyal and generous sponsors whose support enables PEEC to continue its mission!
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as an education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over a million visitants have explored PEEC while 25,000 come to our campus annually.
PEEC 2018 Earth Day Celebration
March 27, 2018
What better way to celebrate Earth Day than surrounded by family and friends at a place that rejuvenates the mind and inspires our natural curiosity.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 23rd annual Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 28th, 2018. The event will take place from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine. New to our Earth Day event for 2018 will be a poetry contest.
PEEC’s Earth Day festival is a fun, holistic opportunity to learn more about sustainability, the local environment, and a chance to connect to nature. Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, or simply go on an interpretive hike. There will also be awesome crafts and plenty of games to play! For a more casual experience, come and relax among friends, grab a bite to eat, and listen to live music. The cost to attend is $5 per car and includes a live animal show and much, much more. Food and drink will also be available at an additional cost.
Crafts will include face painting, weaving, and PEEC’s popular tie-dye station. Tie dye can be a great way to add additional years to old or lightly stained clothing. Bring white cotton shirts, pillowcases, bandanas, or other items to add a creative color burst. A limited number of white bandanas will be available for purchase at the PEEC store.
According to Ricky Bennett, PEEC’s Assistant Camp Director/ Special Events Coordinator, “Our Earth Day festival is more than a festival, it is time spent with family and friends, a time to enjoy nature. Come, be a part of our community; we have something for everyone.”
Vendors and exhibits at the 2018 festival provide a way for community members to meet and interact with local organizations, businesses, and artists. Some of the planned activities and opportunities with vendors and exhibitors include casting demonstrations by members of Trout Unlimited, planting seed opportunities with Dingmans Ferry Bridge Historical Society as well as our local 4-H organization, and spinning and weaving demonstrations by Quiet Valley Farms.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
2020/2021 Press Releases
GREATER PIKE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION: RICHARD L. SNYDER GRANT AWARDED TO PEEC
August 13, 2021
Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) was pleased to receive a grant from the Greater Pike Community Foundation’s Richard L. Snyder Fund in support of PEEC programming in 2021/2022. Maryanne Monte, the Grant Committee chair, noted grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 were awarded. “Approximately $71,000 will be available to not-for-profit organizations in the categories of beautification, cultural events, and medical-related projects,” Monte said. “Richard Snyder’s legacy to Greater Pike Community Foundation is a reflection of his enduring support for our community and his love for Milford and Pike County. His generosity truly underscores our slogan For Good. Forever.”
PEEC will utilize the grant funds to support ongoing efforts to engage the local community in Pike County. Efforts will focus on marketing PEEC events to those individuals closest to the PEEC campus, which is located between Milford and Stroudsburg, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. In addition, the grant supports PEEC events throughout the year including the Earth Day Festival, Harvest Fest, and Tough as Trails 5k.
Finally, the grant also provides the necessary funding for extended hours of PEEC’s EcoZone, an immersive environmental education experience where participants learn about the local environment, watershed, and sustainability. The Richard L. Snyder grant allows EcoZone Tours to be scheduled weekends, all year long. Joel Penkala, Director of Development at PEEC, stated, “The Snyder Grant helps to sustain multiple public programs at PEEC and we are very thankful to have the continued support of the Greater Pike Community Foundation. Their commitment to environmental education and a sustainable future as well as to the residents of Pike County cannot be overstated.”
Greater Pike Community Foundation was created to enable generous individuals, families, and local businesses to maximize their charitable support through organized, targeted, long-term community philanthropy. The Foundation provides a permanent and personal way to give back to the region we love and have worked so hard to nurture and maintain. For information about establishing a fund in memory of a loved one, or to discuss how to realize your charitable goal for the future, please contact Jenni Hamill at jennihamill@greaterpike.org or 570-832-4686, or visit our website wwww.greaterpike.org, or our Facebook page, Facebook.com/GreaterPike.
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year.
PEEC AWE FELLOWS FEATURED IN POCONO RECORD
August 8, 2021
PEEC Day, a capstone project for Alliance for Watershed Education Fellows Brian Frey and Xzy-Naye Campbell, was featured by the Pocono Record in a front page story.
Read the entire article here: Gateway to the Outdoors – Pocono Record Article
PEEC’s Tough as Trails Virtual Competition
April 6, 2021
Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, remarks, “Tough as Trails allows participants to raise funds to support PEEC’s environmental education mission simply by enjoying their favorite places to run, hike or walk. What better way to support a great cause than by doing what you love?”
If you’re looking forward to getting outside as much as we are this spring, join us on May 1 and 2 for the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC) first annual Tough as Trail event! This virtual competition makes it possible for your enjoyment of being outdoors to help support environmental education for the 15,000 students that attend PEEC’s environmental education programs annually. The beauty of it? You can participate from anywhere!
The event will run the entire first weekend of May and takes place in your favorite outdoor location to run, hike or walk. To participate, go to https://peec.jmvirtualraces.com/ and click to join Tough as Trails. Once you’ve registered for the event, download the free JustMove app to your phone and log-in. Search for Tough as Trails in the charities section and join the event using the code provided when you registered. Once you’ve joined the event in the app, you’re ready to get moving!
Tough as Trails is a great way to turn your passion for the outdoors into support and advocacy on its behalf. PEEC’s Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky summed it up perfectly: “Tough as Trails allows participants to raise funds to support PEEC’s environmental education mission simply by enjoying their favorite places to run, hike or walk. What better way to support a great cause than by doing what you love?” Director of Operations, Derek Scott, had similar sentiment, stating: “I think we all have a favorite place to spend time outside, regardless of what or where it is. We felt this event was the perfect way to give back to these outdoor spaces that we care about.”
PEEC is located within the 77,000 acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, along the Delaware River, and is within a short driving distance of New York City & Philadelphia. The mission of PEEC is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with nearly a half century as the education partner of the National Park Service. Since 1972, over 1 million visitors have come to PEEC at an average of 25,000 per year. For more information, please contact Derek Scott, Director of Operations, at (570) 828-2319 or dcott@peec.org
Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, Interview with Comcast Newsmakers
February 3, 2020
PEEC’s Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, was invited to chat with Comcast Newsmakers about the importance of sustainability!
Watch the 5-minute interview here: Comcast Newsmakers – February 3, 2020
2017 Press Releases
March 28, 2017 – Earth Day Watershed Stewardship Event
April 4, 2017 – PEEC 2017 Earth Day Celebration
May 31, 2017 – PEEC 2017 Summer Day and Residential Camp
PEEC 2017 Summer Day and Residential Camp
May 31, 2017
Dingmans Ferry, PA: The long, lazy days of summer are fast approaching and the staff at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) are preparing for PEEC’s popular Summer Day and Residential Camp.
Summer Day Camp begins at PEEC on July 3 & continues through August 25, 2017 from 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday. Campers who are ages 5 years old to 11th grade will have up to 8 weeks to explore, play, and learn about the natural world in which they live. Parents can choose individual weeks or register their children for the entire summer with the assurance that PEEC staff members are qualified instructors with cleared background checks and child safety training.
Every week features a new theme. From “Creek Week” explorations for tadpoles and diving beetles to investigating a Water World, PEEC offers two water themed weeks for kids who like to get wet. Do you know a camper who loves animals? Let them experience “Nature Gone Wild”, where kids can truly roam free, or maybe “Superpowers”, where they can learn the amazing abilities of native creatures.
Prefer traditional camp favorites? “Camper’s Choice” is centered on campers taking the lead in planning their favorite activities, or come to PEEC’s “Messy Mayhem” and get downright dirty all week. We know “PEEC Rocks!” That’s why we’re even having a week celebrating all things geology, including our bat cave and fossils hunts.
Younger campers will be Polliwogs (5 years to 2nd grade) or Wet & Slimies (3rd to 4th grade). Junior Naturalists (5th to 7th grade) can enjoy Thursday late-nights with a campfire dinner and Senior Naturalists (8th to 11th grade) will have the option to stay overnight Thursday to Friday. All campers will enjoy Wednesday afternoon swimming at Lake Akenac.
Residential Camp will have 3 weeks of activities. Senior Naturalists will go on a “River Expedition” and “Appalachian Trail Expedition” while Junior Naturalists will have “Outdoor Adventures.” These weeks are all inclusive with meals, lodging and programming for $750.
PEEC also has a Volunteer Counselor Program for teens ages 15 & up. Volunteer Counselors will learn the expectations of a real job while guiding children & changing lives. Please see the PEEC website for details or call 570-828-2319.
Further information is available on-line at http://peec.org/ camp, along with registration forms & on-line registration. For additional details or to have information mailed, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. Day Camp weekly registration fees range from $175 – $230 depending upon the camper’s age & the activities included in each week. Options available to parents, for an additional charge, are bagged lunches provided by PEEC & transportation from Milford.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC 2017 Earth Day Celebration
April 4, 2017
Dingmans Ferry, PA: Where better to celebrate Earth Day than an environmental center?
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 22nd annual Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 29, 2017. The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine.
PEEC’s Earth Day Festival is a fun opportunity to learn more about recycling, the environment, and how to make lasting connections to nature. Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, make a craft or two, go on a hike, and play some games! For a more laid-back experience, come to relax, grab a bite to eat, and listen to live music. The cost to attend is $5 per car and includes crafts, games, interpretive hikes, a live animal show, and much more! Food and drink will also be available at an additional cost.
Staff and volunteers will guide interpretive hikes on PEEC’s trails, which are a part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Want a new way to experience the forest? Ready, Set, Run will be leading a 1.4 mile Trail Fun Run; be sure to call PEEC to reserve your spot!
Crafts will include face painting, weaving, and PEEC’s popular tie-dye station. Tie dye can be a great way to add additional years to old or lightly stained clothing. Bring white cotton shirts, pillowcases, bandanas, or other items and add some color! A limited number of t-shirts will also be available for purchase at the PEEC store.
According to Stephanie Sherman, PEEC’s Summer Camp Director, “Earth Day is about celebrating our connection to nature. Families can visit, experience PEEC, and get a taste of summer fun.” Families who stop by the camp table can say hello to counselors and will receive a special Earth Day discount when registering a child for camp.”
Vendors and exhibits at the 2017 festival also provide a way for community members to meet and interact with local organizations, businesses, and artists. Some of the planned activities and opportunities with the Earth Day vendors and exhibitors include planting a seed with the Dingmans Ferry Bridge Historical Society, spinning and weaving demonstrations by Quiet Valley Farms, and meeting rescue dogs from Pibbles & More Animal Rescue, Inc.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, 501(c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Earth Day Watershed Stewardship Event
March 28, 2017
Dingmans Ferry, PA: In an effort to keep the waterways of our area clean and healthy, it is important to keep the land surrounding those waters clean. On Saturday, April 22nd, the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting a special event. “Watershed Stewardship Day” will begin at 9:00am at PEEC.
Participants who attend will be picking up trash along roadsides, trails, and streams. Some volunteers will be identifying invasive species and assisting with removal of those plants. Everyone will receive a gift for participating.
“This event is going to be a great way to help take care of the river. Many people would like to be part of a ‘river clean-up’ activity, and this is the way to begin! Being a Watershed Steward is not difficult, and it’s the perfect opportunity for individuals and/or groups to share their love of the environment,” noted Sheri Bone, PEEC’s Group Coordinator and the driving force behind the Earth Day Watershed Stewards.
Local high schools and colleges will be participating in a “Chili Cook-Off” that will serve as lunch.
Representative Rosemary Brown, National Park Service Superintendent John Donahue, and local township officials will be participating, as well.
Snack and lunch will be provided. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 by April 8 to register. This is a free event, and sign-ups can be made for groups and/or individuals.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
October 11, 2014 – PEEC Article on MilfordNow.com
September 23, 2014 – PEEC Raises over $100,00 at its 2nd Annual Wild Things Ball!
September 8, 2014 – PEEC’s 2014 Harvest Festival
August 25, 2014 – PEEC’s Wild Things – 1000 Cranes
May 12, 2014 – Waterfall Photography at PEEC
April 28, 2014 – Plant Sale & Gardening Weekend at PEEC
March 24, 2014 – Wild Things 2014 “1,000 Cranes”
March 17, 2014 – Earth Day Festival
February 10, 2014 – Sugar Shack Scramble
January 12, 2014 – Sun Saluter Solar Panels at PEEC
The Pocono Environmental Education Center: Grass Roots Sustainability
October 11, 2014
Written by Ariel Guerra for MilfordNow.com
Welcome to PEEC
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, or PEEC, is located on the Pocono Plateau within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. It strives to enrich the community by teaching about sustainable living and by fostering an appreciation for nature in everyone from children to adults.
Jeff Rosalsky was a volunteer at PEEC for more than a decade and a trustee, before the opportunity to become executive director presented itself to him.
“This was something that was always very near and dear to my heart; my three kids all went to day camp here. My family was always involved. I loved what the place stood for and everything that PEEC was doing,” said Rosalsky.
Read the entire article: PEEC Article on MilfordNow.com
PEEC Raises over $100,000 at its Second Annual Wild Things Ball!
September 23, 2014
PEEC is delighted to announce that its second “Wild Things” ball, this year entitled “1000 Cranes,” raised over $100,000 for its 21st Century Sustainability Campaign. Last year’s ball, PEEC’s first ever major fundraiser, was a success, but this year’s exceeded it in every way. More than 100 guests attended and more than two dozen corporate and individual sponsors (fifty percent more than last year) underwrote the entire cost of the event. As a result, all of the proceeds from the auction and raffle represent funds available for PEEC’s new Peter Bohlin-designed Sustainability Lodge and other aspects of the sustainability campaign. Four of PEEC’s trustees agreed to match the funds raised from the auction, so that the total proceeds reached the six-figure mark.
Ed Raarup of Milford served as emcee and auctioneer and the Robbi Kumalo band, one of whose members attended camp at PEEC as a child, once again provided the music. A highlight of the evening was the décor, by Randy Auman of Milford. Eight foot spirals of origami cranes decorated each table and the entire 60 foot length of the tent. “We actually used far more than the legendary 1000 cranes,” said Randy. “Jeff Rosalsky (PEEC’s Executive Director) personally designed and poured the concrete bases and the PEEC staff did an amazing job of stringing the cranes. But wait until you see what we are going to do next year!”
For event photos, please see PEEC’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pocono-Environmental-Education-Center/48733335833
PEEC’s 2014 Harvest Festival
September 8, 2014
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its fourth annual Harvest Festival on September 27, 2014. The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine.
The Harvest Festival is an event that celebrates the autumnal equinox and traditional harvest season that occurs in September. The Harvest Festival will include local farms, handmade items, and environmental activities.
Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, make a craft or two, go on a hike, and play some games! For a more laid-back experience, several options are available – relax, grab a bite to eat, and listen to music around lunch time.
PEEC staff and volunteers will lead a number of activities throughout the festival, including tie dye, cider making, autumnal crafts, EcoZone tours, and interpretive hikes around the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s Wild Things – 1000 Cranes
August 25, 2014
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is delighted to announce that many of its supporters have agreed to serve as sponsors for the second annual Wild Things Ball, to be held September 20, 2014. AM Skier Insurance, Hawley, and The Dime Bank, both of whom sponsored last year, are the corporate sponsors for the event. To date, the following generous individuals have also agreed to sponsor the event: Dan Abramson; Peter & Sally Bohlin; Barbara & Tom Brummer; Art & Shari Cirkus; Michael & Elizabeth Geitz; Kirkwood Family Foundation Corporation; Alan Leventen; Richard & Rebecca Lindsey; Litzenberger Family Foundation; Lee & Sonda Miller; Marvin & Frances Naftal; Tom O’Keefe & Theresa Stack; Jeff Rosalsky & Gail Shuttleworth; Gary Roth & Czashka Ross; Sam & Brenda Ruello; Paul & Carolyn Shuttleworth; Maleyne M. Syracuse & Michael Trenner; Albert & Joan Waldman; Howard Whidden & Jennifer White; Andrew & Julie Wilshinsky. PEEC is deeply grateful for this support.
The second annual Wild Things ball will again be held at the Hotel Fauchere, from 6:00-10:00pm on Saturday, September 20. The enormously popular Robbi Kumalo ensemble will play for both dinner and the dance. This year’s theme is “1000 Cranes” and the event promises to be both beautiful and fun. A kayak generously donated by Action Bikes & Outdoor will be raffled and a small auction will take place.
Jeff Rosalsky, PEEC’s Executive Director, has announced that receipts from this year’s event will continue to support PEEC’s Sustainability Campaign. The Sustainability Campaign will fund the retrofitting of existing PEEC cabins with a variety of sustainable energy sources and construct the new Sustainability Lodge designed by architect Peter Bohlin.
Tickets for the event are $125 per person and individual sponsorships, including 2 tickets, are $500. Call PEEC at 570-828-2319 or purchase tickets online at www.peec.org.
Expedition River Trip with PEEC
May 19, 2014
Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is presenting an Expedition River Trip June 20-22. It will be the experience of a lifetime as participants enjoy the summer solstice with a camping trip along the Delaware River.
Friday afternoon will be spent at PEEC preparing for the trip and learning canoe camping skills. Participants will canoe all day on Saturday and spend the night at a primitive campsite. No experience is necessary – PEEC staff will teach participants everything they need to know.
The river trip includes lodging, meals, tents, sleeping bags, and group camping equipment for $260/adult and $195/child. Call PEEC for details and to register: 570-828-2319
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Waterfall Photography at PEEC
May 12, 2014
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will host Waterfall Photography Weekend from June 13 – 15. Kathy Peoples, Professional Photographer and Educator, will lead the 3-day workshop. Participants will learn how to pinpoint focus, blur the background, saturate colors, use Photoshop, and more.
The weekend workshop includes lodging and meals for $205. Commuter rate is $155 and day rates are also available. To relax in the Poconos while learning from an amazing teacher, please call to register: 570-828-2319.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information, call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Plant Sale & Gardening Weekend at PEEC
April 28, 2014
Celebrate the blossoming of spring with the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) Native Plant Sale! The annual Native Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11 from 9:00am-4:00pm. There is no admission to attend the sale and many varieties of native and deer resistant flowers, shrubs, and grasses will be available. Perennials will include coneflowers, bee balm, asters, foxglove, yarrow, cranesbill, lungwort, and may more! PEEC Members will be able to attend a pre-sale on Friday, May 9 from 6:00-8:00pm.
Gardening programs continue throughout the weekend of May 17 & 18 with PEEC’s Go Native! Gardening Weekend . The Penn State Master Gardener Volunteers will teach fun and fascinating workshops and participants will learn low cost, low stress, highly effective ways to create a pollinator habitat in their existing yard, planters, and window boxes. The all-inclusive weekend includes lodging, meals, and workshop sessions for $150; day rates are also available for $5 per session.
For more information or to register for the Go Native! Gardening Weekend, please call 570-828-2319 or email peec@peec.org.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Upcoming Birding Programs
April 7, 2014
As spring arrives in the Pocono Mountains, many species of birds are returning from warmer climates. Birders of all levels, novice to experienced, are invited to spend the weekend of May 9-11 at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in search of warblers, raptors, and other migrating birds.
Warbler Weekend will begin on Friday evening, May 9 & continue through Sunday afternoon, May 11. Field trips will be led by experienced guides who will identify birds by sight, sound, and habitat. Enjoy a variety of habitats as the group searches for birds in the beautiful Pocono Mountains.
Join us for a weekend with the birds! To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. The cost of the weekend is $205, which includes 2 nights of lodging & 6 meals. The commuter rate is $155 and day rates are also available.
A second birding program, Bird Walk, will be held at PEEC on Saturday, May 17 from 8:00-10:00am. This $5 program is for anyone interested in learning more about birds. Darryl Speicher, from the Pocono Avian Research Center, will lead a hike focusing on the identification of birds and their unique natural history. The program is most appropriate for ages 10+; binoculars and field guides will be provided. Please visit www.peec.org for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Wild Things “1,000 Cranes”
March 24, 2014
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is pleased to announce that its second annual Wild Things Ball, “Wild Things 2014—1000 Cranes” will take place on Saturday September 20, at the Hotel Fauchere. The Ball will again support PEEC’s 21st Century Sustainability Campaign, which last year’s Ball launched so successfully. Jeff Rosalsky, PEEC’s executive director, noted, “We were delighted with the response to last year’s Ball, which was our organization’s first major fundraiser in its 40 year history. We had great food and a great band, and as a result, everyone had a great time. This year will be even better.”
Wild Things 2014 will take place, like last year’s ball, at the Hotel Fauchere in Milford, and the Robbi Kumalo Ensemble, which played last year to great acclaim, will be back as well. The Ball will take place five weeks earlier this year, however, to avoid cool nights, and the theme, based on the Asian tradition of 1000 cranes, is new as well. According to Japanese legend, cranes live a thousand years. They thus symbolize good health, good luck, long life, and – a because they mate for life – fidelity and truth. In Japan, cranes are “birds of happiness” and in Japanese tradition a crane will grant a wish to anyone with the patience and commitment to fold a thousand origami cranes (one for each of the bird’s years), because that person has shown the crane loyalty and recreated its beauty.
Wild Things 2013 allowed PEEC to launch its 21st Century Sustainability Campaign. PEEC has made material progress towards the Campaign’s goals as a result of the funds raised last year, and has plans for major improvements this year following Wild Things 2014. Erica Cullman, PEEC board member and dinner committee member, stressed “We want everyone in the community to join us at the party. Our invitation mailing list is as complete as we have been able to make it, but we know that there are omissions, and we want everyone who supports PEEC, environmental education, and the Pike County Community to consider this a personal invitation to attend the Ball and celebrate with us.”
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Earth Day Festival
March 17, 2014
Where better to celebrate Earth day than an environmental center?
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 19th annual Earth Day Festival on April 13, 2014. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., rain or shine.
Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, make a craft or two, go on a hike, and play some games! For a more laid-back experience, several options are available – relax, grab a bite to eat, and listen to music.
PEEC staff will be leading interpretive nature hikes around the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area as well as giving guests the chance to go canoeing on a pond.
Crafts will include decorations made with recycled materials as well as PEEC’s popular tie-dye station. Tie dye can be a great way to add additional years to old or lightly stained clothing. Bring white cotton shirts, pillowcases, bandanas, or other items and add some color! A limited number of t-shirts will also be available for purchase at the PEEC store.
PEEC will also be featuring a summer camp table – stop by and say hello to real camp counselors! Families who sign up their campers during the Earth Day Festival will receive $5 off per registration.
PEEC’s Earth Day Festival is a fun opportunity to learn more about recycling, the environment, and how to make small (and big) changes to reduce your environmental footprint.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Nuno Felting & Knitting
March 10, 2014
Join our fiber arts crew for a brand new program! From April 3-6, 2014, the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be offering a new workshop, Nuno Felting & Knitting. Participants will join workshop leader, Patti Shreiner, and guest instructor, Bette Rycroff, in creating a felted scarf or an embellished headband. Beginners are always welcome. You’re welcome to bring your own projects to work on as well. Regardless of your project, expect a relaxing, education weekend!
Nuno Felting & Knitting will begin Thursday, April 3 and continue through Sunday, April 6. This wonderful program includes 3 nights lodging and 9 meals for $255. A shortened session is available from Friday, April 4-Sunday, April 6, for a cost of $205. Commuter & day rates are also available. To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Women’s Weekend
March 3, 2014
A relaxing nature hike through the forest with friends, canoeing across a peaceful pond, morning yoga, and evening star gazing and campfires. Participants in the April 3-6, 2014, Women’s Weekend at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will have the opportunity to experience all of these and more. Women will have a chance to get away from the stresses of daily life to revitalize themselves, relax, and connect with the natural world. The weekend is open to all women ages 18+. This gentle introduction to the outdoors is perfect for novice & experienced nature lovers alike.
Women’s Weekend will begin Friday, April 4, and continue through Sunday, April 6. This wonderful program includes lodging in a comfortable yurt and six delicious meals. To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. The cost of the weekend is $195. Commuter & day rates are also available.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Sugar Shack Scramble
February 10, 2014
Enjoy an orienteering expedition to the “Two Saps” Sugar Shack! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting its annual Sugar Shack Scramble on Saturday, March 8, from 9:00am-12:30pm. The cost is $10 per person.
Participants will travel in guided groups, using a map and compass to find the sugar shack. Upon arrival at the sugar shack, participants will learn about the maple sugaring process, see the maple sap as it boils down to syrup, and enjoy hot cocoa and pancakes with fresh PA maple syrup.
Pre-registration is required and spaces are limited. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 for more information & to register for a 9:00am or 9:30am start time.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Vegetable Gardening Weekend
January 13, 2014
Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting an exciting new Gardening Series for 2014! The first program is a Vegetable Gardening Weekend on February 8 – 9, 2014. Classes will be taught by the Pike County Master Gardeners and participants will learn how to design, prepare, and cultivate a vegetable garden. During the weekend, PEEC will also offer fun recreational activities (Cross Country Skiing, a Nature Hike, and a Campfire with S’mores).
Participants can enjoy an all-inclusive weekend (lodging, meals and programming) for $150. For anyone that lives locally, the commuter rate is only $99 and includes all meals and programming. Participants also have the choice of registering for individual gardening and recreational programs. Call for scheduling details and a cost option sheet. For more information or to register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. Don’t miss this great new program with the Pike County Master Gardeners, full of useful, hands-on gardening information. Learn from the best!
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information, call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Students from Delaware Valley and East Stoudsburg erect a Sun Saluter at PEEC
January 12, 2014
On Sunday January 12, 2014 students from the Delaware Valley High School Engineering Club and East Stroudsburg High School North came to Pocono Environmental Education Center to help build and install Sun Saluter www.sunsaluter.com a low cost solar panel.
The Sun Saluter is a unique device created by Eden Full a student at Princeton University and currently being used by third world countries. The event was hosted by Air Soil Water, an environmental non-profit group whose mission is achieving sustainability through education. The full day schedule kicked off with a live Skype presentation and Q&A with Eden Full who told students about her inspiration for Sun Saluter and her experience starting a company while still a student. The day concluded with the successful installation and operating solar panel that will be used by PEEC to power a greenhouse fan.
January & February Eagle Watches at PEEC
January 8, 2014
Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be presenting several Eagle Watches during January & February. Each of the Eagle Watches will be led by Jan Lokuta and will include visits to the Mongaup Reservoir, the Delaware River, and the Eagle Institute. Participants will look for resident nesting pairs and winter visitors. Eagle Watch for Eagle Enthusiasts will be held Saturday, January 25 from 8:30am-3:30pm and will include a special stop at the PPL Environmental Center’s “Eagle Day.” PEEC’s second Eagle Watch will be Sunday, February 2 from 9:00am – 3:00pm. The cost for each of the programs will be $20 per person, which includes transportation and natural history information on bald eagles. Eagles congregate along open water during this time of year and are easier to see. Call now to register for this amazing opportunity!
For more information or to register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. Participants should call to register and reserve a seat in the van. Participants should bring a lunch and a camera and dress in warm layers. The groups will all meet at PEEC’s main building to begin the eagle watching adventure.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
2015 Press Releases
December 2015 – Met Ed Sustainable Energy Grant
December 2015 – Ticket to Ride NPF Grant
October 2015 – Native American Youth Camp
August 24, 2015 – PEEC 2015 Harvest Festival
August 20, 2015 – Wild Things: Dragonfly Ball
July 15, 2015 – Greater Pike Community Foundation Grant
March 30, 2015 – PEEC 2015 Earth Day Celebration
Met Ed Sustainable Energy Grant
December 23, 2015
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) was recently awarded $25,000 from the Metropolitan Edison Company Sustainable Energy Fund, which is administered by the Berks County Community Foundation. The grant will be used to retrofit three housing units on the PEEC campus with sustainable energy technologies including solar and wind-turbine generated power. Super-insulation materials will also be installed to ensure maximum efficiency in heating and cooling the living space within the units.
With more than 10,000 students from elementary school through college staying overnight at PEEC each year, these new technologies are also designed to be instructive as to the benefits of sustainable energy technologies. Gauges installed in each unit actually demonstrate both the energy and cost savings of these new technologies. PEEC Executive Director, Jeff Rosalsky, said, “Though we tell people all the time about the benefits of sustainable energy technologies, this message has far more impact when someone experiences it firsthand. When we show them the “numbers” of it, they become both believers and advocates.”
The Metropolitan Edison Company Sustainable Energy Fund promotes the development and use of renewable energy and clean energy technologies, energy conservation and efficiency, sustainable energy businesses and projects that improve the environment, said Heidi Williamson, Vice President for Programs and Initiatives at Berks County Community Foundation which manages the fund. “This project at the Pocono Environmental Education Center will show that energy consumption can be reduced though technology without losing comfort or convenience,” Williamson said. “Sustainable energy technologies are improving every year and are becoming standard practice in new construction and building renovations.”
Jeff Rosalsky also said the Metropolitan Edison Company Sustainable Energy Fund is one of many important partners in PEEC’s 21st Century Sustainability Campaign, which has an objective of converting all existing buildings to more sustainable energy sources over the next several years. He said that PEEC wishes to serve as an example of change for others to follow. He went on to say that with more than 25,000 visitors each year, PEEC has a huge impact.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Receives Transportation Grant From The National Park Foundation
December 8, 2015
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (DWGNRA) is one of 113 national parks selected to receive a 2015 field trip grant from the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks. The “Ticket to Ride” program allowed over 500 area fourth graders to come to the park.
As part of the National Park Foundation’s Open OutDoors for Kids program, this grant (funded in part by Disney) provides funding for materials and logistics to make national park field trips, citizen science projects, Junior Ranger activities, experiential learning opportunities, and more possible.
Including this year’s grantees, National Park Foundation grants have made it possible for more than 300,000 students to visit national parks.
“Through programs like Open OutDoors for Kids and the Find Your Park/Encuentra Tu Parque movement, we are creating the next generation of park stewards, connecting youth across the country to these special places and inspiring their natural curiosity and love for them,” said Will Shafroth, president and CEO of the National Park Foundation. “We are grateful to all of our partners, including Disney, that make such programs possible and help more people find their park.”
“By sharing parks with kids at such a young age, we’re building a strong generation of park stewards who will care for and protect these treasured places into the next 100 years,” said Jonathan B. Jarvis, director of the National Park Service. “Thanks to our philanthropic partner, the National Park Foundation, we’re able to strengthen and enrich our parks through the lasting bond these experiences foster.”
Students were visited by NPS staff and staff from the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) before their park visit. It was then that they learned about their upcoming trip to PEEC, more about national parks and possible activities they and their families could do in the park. Once at PEEC, they took a tour of the EcoZone and then hiked outdoors. A post-trip visit to the schools will be made, where information about the Pocono Pony and other park opportunities will be shared.
For the full list of park grantees, and their projects, visit www.nationalparks.org/ticket-adventure.
Since 2014, Disney has been the lead sponsor of Open OutDoors for Kids, helping youth experience a national park, many of them for the first time.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 409 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at: www.nps.gov.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL PARK FOUNDATION
The National Park Foundation is the official charity of America’s national parks and nonprofit partner to the National Park Service. Chartered by Congress in 1967, the National Park Foundation raises private funds to help PROTECT more than 84 million acres of national parks through critical conservation and preservation efforts, CONNECT all Americans with their incomparable natural landscapes, vibrant culture and rich history, and INSPIRE the next generation of park stewards. Find out more and become a part of the national park community at www.nationalparks.org.
Native American Youth Camp
October 2015
Written by CeCe Biggoose for Delaware Indian News
A trip to the Delaware Water Gap National Park came to life in July when five Delaware teens, ages 14 to 17, embarked on a 12-day journey of their lifetimes. The trip made possible by the tribal leaders of the Delaware Tribe of Indians, including the help of Greg Brown and Brice Obermeyer, Delaware Nation of Anadarko, Stockbridge Munsee of Wisconsin, the National Park Service, Cultural Preservation committees, archeologists, professors, many elders, leaders, volunteers and so many people behind the scenes who envisioned, discussed, planned, set aside funds, wrote grants for this special event. The vision of this event spanned a decade or more.
This Summer Youth camp made it possible for our future generation of tribal leaders to see through their eyes, learn through their hearts and minds, experience hiking through their original homelands. An experience the youth never envisioned possible, none of the youth groups had ever flew on a plane or traveled so far from home!
Read the entire article: Delaware Indian News – October 2015
PEEC 2015 Harvest Festival
August 20, 2015
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its fifth annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 26, 2015. The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine.
The Harvest Festival is an event that celebrates the autumnal equinox and traditional harvest season that occurs in September. The Harvest Festival will include local farms, handmade items, and environmental activities.
Families are invited to stroll around the vendors and exhibits, support local businesses, make a craft or two, go on a hike, and play some games! For a more laid-back experience, several options are available – relax, grab a bite to eat, and listen to music around lunch time.
PEEC staff and volunteers will lead a number of activities throughout the festival, including tie dye, cider making, autumnal crafts, EcoZone tours, and interpretive hikes around the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Wild Things 2015 – Dragonfly Ball
August 20, 2015
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is pleased to announce that the third annual Wild Things Ball, “Wild Things 2015—Dragonfly Ball” will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at PEEC. This year’s Ball will again support PEEC’s 21st Century Sustainability Campaign, and with the funds secured from “Wild Things” in 2013 and 2014, will enable PEEC to break ground on its new Sustainability Lodge in 2016. Jeff Rosalsky, PEEC’s executive director, noted, “The response to this campaign has been outstanding and we are now finalizing plans to build the Sustainability Lodge.”
Krave Caterers of Newton, NJ will provide the elegant dinner, and decor will again be by Randy Auman of Milford, PA, whose “1000 Cranes” origami theme last year was so striking. Rebecca Lindsey of the Dragonfly Dinner Committee noted: “We are delighted that this year’s dinner will take place at PEEC, in Peter Bohlin’s iconic dining lodge. Many of our supporters do not often see the PEEC campus, and the Dragonfly Ball will let all of our guests experience the summer splendor of the park PEEC is fortunate enough to occupy. We plan to serve cocktails outside, weather permitting, and guests who wish to do so will be able to walk to see the site of the new Sustainability Lodge, or to inspect one of the existing lodges that have been retrofitted with “sustainable” heating and hot water systems thanks to the last two Wild Things Balls. Finally, to make this year’s Ball a completely fun party, we have eliminated the live auction segment of the dinner to give more time for entertainment from the Robbi Kumalo band. Robbi, her husband Bakithi Kumalo and their band have been huge hits at our last two balls, and we wanted to have more time for them to entertain us this year! PEEC is also providing continuous free shuttle service between Milford and the PEEC campus on the night of the event so that guests who prefer not to drive Route 209 at night do not need to do so.”
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC at www.peec.org.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Greater Pike Community Foundation Grant
July 15, 2015
Jim Pedranti (right center), Board Chair of the Greater Pike Community Foundation, presented a check for $1,000 to Jeff Rosalsky (left center), Executive Director of PEEC and Andrea Ace (center), Camp Director for PEEC Summer Camps. Maryanne Monte, Board Member of the Greater Pike Community Foundation, was also in attendance. The $1,000 award will cover the cost of constructing the new GaGa Ball Pit at PEEC, which is already in use by summer campers. A group of “Pollywog Campers” and one of their camp counselors are also pictured.
PEEC 2015 Earth Day Celebration
Where better to celebrate Earth Day than an environmental center?
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 20th annual Earth Day Festival on April 25, 2015. This festival will also celebrate the grand opening of a new trail called Trail for Everyone. The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine. Admission is $5 per car.
Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, make a craft or two, go on a hike, and play some games! For a more laid-back experience, several options are available – relax, grab a bite to eat, and listen to music.
The grand opening ceremony for the Trail for Everyone will be at 1:00 p.m. PEEC staff will lead families on interpretive nature hikes on the new Trail for Everyone throughout the day, in addition to leading hikes on other trails around the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Crafts will include face painting as well as PEEC’s popular tie-dye station. Tie dye can be a great way to add additional years to old or lightly stained clothing. Bring white cotton shirts, pillowcases, bandanas, or other items and add some color! A limited number of t-shirts will also be available for purchase at the PEEC store.
PEEC will also be featuring a summer camp table – stop by and say hello to real camp counselors! Families who stop by the camp table will receive a special Earth Day discount when signing a child up for camp.
PEEC’s Earth Day Festival is a fun opportunity to learn more about recycling, the environment, and how to make small (and big) changes to reduce your environmental footprint.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
2016 Press Releases
July 2, 2016 – A Day of Learning
May 4, 2016 – PEEC Featured in “50 Best Things to Do in the Poconos, Pennsylvania
April 18, 2016 – Earth Day Featured on ResortsandLoges.com
April 1, 2016 – National Park Foundation 2016 Active Trails Grant
March 18, 2016 – PEEC 2016 Earth Day Celebration
March 8, 2016 – PEEC Dedicates Solar Cell Phone Charging Bench
January 15, 2016 – Sanofi Pasteur Grant for STEM-Based Programming
A Day of Learning
By Rick Koval for the Pocono Record
July 2, 2016
One of my most anticipated nature events happens each summer when I get to spend an entire day outdoors searching for amphibians and reptiles.
Actually, throughout my everyday life and profession, an all day outdoor outing is quite the norm; however when it involves spending the day with an enthusiastic group of elementary students it is really something special.
View the entire article: A Day of Learning – Students Take Advantage of PEEC’s Opportunities
Pocono Environmental Education Center Featured in “50 Best Things to Do in the Poconos, Pennyslvania”
May 4, 2016
View the entire article: 50 Best Things to Do in the Poconos, Pennsylvania
Earth Day Festival at PEEC: Conservation, Games and a Great Experience for All
ResortsandLodges.com
April 18, 2016
View the entire article: Earth Day Festival at PEEC: Conservation, Games and a Great Experience for All
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Pocono Environmental Education Center Receive National Park Foundation 2016 Active Trails Grant
April 1, 2016
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area was awarded $20,625 by the National Park Foundation 2016 Active Trails grant program. The grant will be used to conduct the “Active Adventures: Find Your Path to Wellness” (Active Adventures) program 2016. The program will be carried out by the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in Dingmans Ferry.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is one of 25 national parks selected to receive a 2016 ActiveTrails grant from the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks. Now in its eighth year, the Active Trails program supports healthy living by getting people out and active in national parks through projects promoting recreation and exercise. Since 2008, the National Park Foundation has granded more than $3.35 million through its Active Trails program. As of early 2015, Active Trails has engaged more than 12,000 volunteers and 740 project partners.
Active Adventures will focus on using the resources and facilities of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area to assist people in finding their own personal path to wellness. Through this grant, PEEC will partner with expert teachers in Tai Chi, yoga, and meditation and mindfulness to teach introductory programs and bring active lifestyle programs to the Park. PEEC is also partnering with Pocono Medical Center for a series of “hike with a physician” programs, including hikes with a cardiothoracic surgeon, a physical therapist, and a dietician or nutritionist. It is hoped that by broadening programs to include the benefits of nature and the outdoors on health and wellness, awareness can be raised of what the park has to offer in terms of wellness-related activities. The Active Adventures program seeks to serve a minimun of 750 people, primarily from neighboring communities in and around the park.
Jeff Rosalsky, Executive Director of PEEC praised the National Park Foundation for “its commitment to programs promoting health and well being using our national parks as the focal point.” He went on to say, “Our strong relationship with the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area will prove invaluable in seeing to it that this program reaches as many people of all ages as possible.”
Park Superintendent John Donahue said, “A national park is far more valuable when people are actively immersed in the park rather than just passing through and seeing the sights.” He went on to say, “One of the primary objectives of the National Park Service is to encourage use of the park for physical activity, physiological well-being, and spiritual uplift. The National Parks exist for that very reason.”
“National parks, both urban and rural, can provide opportunities to improve one’s physical and mental health,” said Sara Newman, Director of the Office of Public Health at the National Park Service. “The scientific evidence is mounting to demonstrate that physical activity in the outdoors can lead to numerous health benefits, and we are proud our parks are a health resource for this nation. These National Park Foundation grants will help all visitors experience our parks as places to recreate, inspire, reflect, and be active.”
PEEC 2016 Earth Day Celebration
March 18, 2016
Where better to celebrate Earth Day than an environmental center?
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 21st annual Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 16, 2016. The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine.
PEEC’s Earth Day Festival is a fun opportunity to learn more about recycling, the environment, and how to make small (and big) changes to reduce your environmental footprint. Staff and volunteers will lead interpretive hikes on PEEC’s trails, which are a part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Families are invited to stroll around the exhibits, support local businesses, make a craft or two, go on a hike, and play some games! For a more laid-back experience, several options are available – relax, grab a bite to eat, and listen to music.
Crafts will include face painting as well as PEEC’s popular tie-dye station. Tie dye can be a great way to add additional years to old or lightly stained clothing. Bring white cotton shirts, pillowcases, bandanas, or other items and add some color! A limited number of t-shirts will also be available for purchase at the PEEC store.
The Earth Day Festival will also feature a summer camp table – stop by and say hello to real camp counselors! Families who stop by the camp table will receive a special Earth Day discount when registering a child for camp.
Vendors and exhibits at the 2016 festival also provide a way for community members to meet and interact with local organizations, businesses, and artists. Some of the planned activities and opportunities with the Earth Day vendors and exhibitors include planting a seed with the Dingmans Ferry Bridge Historical Society, meeting a park ranger from the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation area, watching stained glass demonstrations by Betty Ann, and meeting rescue dogs from Pibbles & More Animal Rescue, Inc.
The cost to attend is $5 per car and includes crafts, games, interpretive hikes, a live animal show, and much more! Food and drinks will also be available at an additional cost.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC Dedicates Solar Cell Phone Charging Bench Donated by PPL Electricric Utilities
March 8, 2016
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) recently installed a solar cell phone charging bench near the front entrance of its main education building, using a grant from PPL Electric Utilities. PPL has long been a partner to PEEC in teaching visitors, especially school students, about the importance of sustainable energy.
This new addition to the PEEC campus comes at the perfect time, according to PEEC’s executive director, Jeff Rosalsky.
“From early March right through the end of June, PEEC will host more than 18,000 school students from over 150 schools in the tri-state area, and many of them will need to charge their cell phones,” Rosalsky said. “Why not teach them about solar energy at the same time?”
Alana Roberts, regional affairs director for PPL Electric Utilities, helped PEEC dedicate the solar charging bench on March 7th and was the first visitor to use it.
“We are proud to support the Pocono Environmental Education Center, and to help provide this benefit that will surely be in regular use by visitors,” she said. “We support the center’s mission of environmental education, sustainable living and appreciation of nature.”
Sanofi Pastuer Grant for STEM-based Educational Programming
January 15, 2016
Pocono Environmental Education Center Receives Grant from Sanofi Pasteur
for STEM-based educational programming
Dingmans Ferry, PA: The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) was awarded $24,000 by Sanofi Pasteur – the vaccines division of the Sanofi Group with US Headquarters in Swiftwater, Pa. — to conduct the “Sci-Q” Project in 2016. Sanofi Pasteur also funded Sci-Q in 2015. Sci-Q is a unique, week-long STEM camp designed for 25 aspiring scientists in 8th through 10th grades. This year, the Sci-Q Project will be held from June 27 – July 2, 2016 at PEEC, which is located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.
Through Sci-Q, students interact with local college professors, hand-picked for their innovative and fun educational approach, as they showcase their research in a variety of fascinating fields. Though the program is aimed primarily at students in Monroe, Pike, Wayne, and Northampton Counties, students with an aptitude for science from any school district may apply. Last year nearly 40% of the Sci-Q participants came from other school districts in PA, NJ, and NY.
Ellyn Schindler, director, North America Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Engagement, said, “Through philanthropy and community engagement the company is committed to helping young people learn more about science in both a practical and personal way.” She went on to note, “Encouraging STEM based programming is not only beneficial for the broader community, it also helps science and technology companies like Sanofi Pasteur encourage the next generation of scientists, who may also serve as the next generation of employees.”
Jeff Rosalsky, executive director of PEEC and one of the creators of the Sci-Q program, praised Sanofi Pasteur for its commitment to STEM Education and said PEEC could not have a better partner for science and technology education.
The student application and selection process for Sci-Q 2016 will begin this month. Details can be found at: www.peec.org/sci-q.
November 2012 – Winter Survival Hike at PEEC
October 2012 – Saw Creek Donation
September 2012 – Orienteering Championships Headquarters at PEEC
August 2012 – Enjoy the Fall Harvest Festival
June 2012 – Moonlit Drumming at PEEC
May 2012 – Learn & Explore with PEEC’s Park History Tour
April 2012 – “Take Me Fishing” Award
February 2012 – PEEC’s Sugar Shack Scramble
January 2012 – Eagle Watches at PEEC
Winter Survival Hike at PEEC
November 19, 2012
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will host a winter survival hike on Saturday, December 8, 2012 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.
The facilitator of this program, Mike Dennis of Traditional Earth Skills, will teach hikers a variety of techniques required to survive in the woods during the winter months. Participants of this interactive hike will learn useful wintertime skills, including how to build a basic shelter and start a fire with minimal supplies. The winter survival hike is for adult participants only. The cost of this program is $20 per person and pre-registration is requested.
Dennis has studied native wilderness skills and botany since 1995. His company, Traditional Earth Skills, was founded in 2006 and offers a variety of living history as well as wilderness skills, workshops, and presentations. These programs are combined with a genuine concern for recent climate changes occurring world-wide, ultimately hoping to create solutions we can all live with.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Lenape Program at PEEC!
November 12, 2012
LEHMAN TOWNSHIP, DINGMAN’S FERRY, PA – The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will present “Lenape of the Eastern Woodland” on Saturday, December 1, 2012 from 1:00-3:00pm.
Mike Dennis of Traditional Earth Skills will teach participants about the day-to-day activities of the Lenape culture. The food, clothing, and shelter of the local hunter gatherers will be presented, along with handmade artifacts. The program is $20 per person and pre-registration is requested.
In 1998, Mike Dennis began an intensive study of native wilderness skills and botany. Within a year of beginning courses at the Tracker school, Mike started working on the Indian Island of Waterloo Village. There tourists were able to benefit from Mike’s knowledge and skills. In 2005 Mike took all of his woodworking knowledge to Spokane Washington where he built his first birch bark canoe.
Traditional Earth Skills offers a variety of living history as well as wilderness skills workshops and presentations. These programs are combined with a genuine concern for recent climate changes occurring world-wide, ultimately hoping to create solutions we can all live with.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Saw Creek Donation to PEEC
October 22, 2012
Saw Creek Estates recently made a generous donation to The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC). Saw Creek supported PEEC by hosting various fundraising events including: a “Pampering for PEEC” event, a 1920’s gala, two yard sales, and numerous raffles. All of Saw Creek’s departments, committees, and clubs, and many volunteers participated in raising $2,184.26.
Jeff Rosalsky, Executive Director of PEEC, commented, “It is wonderful to see communities like Saw Creek supporting local non-profits like PEEC. Our environmental education programs for children and adults rely on community participation and financial support.”
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Pictured left to right: Saw Creek Recreation Assistant Renee Hojnowski, PEEC Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky, Saw Creek Board of Directors President Bill Montgomery, Saw Creek Recreation Director Margie Gerstmann.
If you go into the woods the weekend of October 19-21, you’re in for a big surprise!
September 21, 2012
DELAWARE WATER GAP, PA – The North American Orienteering Championships will be held from Friday October 19 to Sunday October 21, 2012. NAOC 2012 headquarters will be at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in connection with the host club, the Delaware Valley Orienteering Association (DVOA). Orienteers from the US, Canada, the Caribbean and Europe will compete in three World Ranking Events. DVOA expects over 500 competitors and support staff in the woods around PEEC on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Everyone will be watching world-class runners go head to head – but there will be plenty of excitement in every age and skill class.
PEEC will be the headquarters, and the final event on Sunday will be an exciting spectator-friendly relay between national teams right on the PEEC campus. Their award winning new dining facility will be the heart of the social activities for the weekend. The Poconos will be especially beautiful in October, and competitors and their families will be “out and about” enjoying everything the area has to offer.
Anyone heading out into the woods for hunting or a quiet hike from October 18 to the 21st in the areas of PEEC, Adams Creek or Egypt Mills might be surprised to encounter race workers setting up water stations and controls with orange and white flags and score boxes, or doing take-down, as well as competitors in club or national team uniforms. Shuttle buses will also be in action, ferrying runners to the remote starting points.
If you are not familiar with the sport, orienteering competitors are issued a detailed map and use only their map and compass skills and speed in the woods to find control points in order in the forest. It’s a timed race and a great workout for body and mind, and all ages and fitness levels can participate.
DVOA has had a great season so far, sending both a men’s and women’s relay team to the world’s largest orienteering relay event in Finland, Jukola 2012. Masters and Juniors from the US, with a strong representation from the Delaware Valley, competed in Germany, Spain, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Now it is DVOA’s turn to host competitors from around the globe on our world class orienteering terrain in the Delaware Water Gap NRA.
Pocono Environmental Education Center Announces Partnership with 1% for the Planet
September 18, 2012
DINGMANS FERRY, PA – Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is a new nonprofit partner of 1% for the Planet, an alliance of over 1,380 member companies in 43 countries that give 1% of revenues to environmental causes.
PEEC is now eligible to receive donations from 1% member companies, placing them among a diverse, global network of environmental organizations. 1% member businesses fuel this non-profit network through their annual contributions, which totaled over $22 million in 2010. Partnership with 1% greatly expands the potential pool of funding to which PEEC can look to for support.
Newly approved PEEC contributes to a healthier planet by providing numerous year-round activities, opportunities, and programs for persons of all ages and abilities to study, become engaged in, and become connected to nature and natural systems. PEEC opens doors to nature.
Over 2,300 non-profits worldwide are included in the 1% network, and over $70 million has been funneled to its nonprofit partners to date. “The intent of 1% for the Planet is to help fund these diverse environmental organizations so that collectively they can be a more powerful force in solving the world’s problems,” Yvon Chouinard, founder of 1% for the Planet.
It is our belief at PEEC that, through ‘direct experience’ with the natural world, all PEEC participants will not only gain increased knowledge of natural science, techniques for scientific inquiry, and familiarity with local flora, fauna, and ecology, but will become connected to their natural world and (hopefully) create and establish their personal land ethic and actively become involved in conservation and stewardship. As John Burrows once said, “Knowledge without love will not stick. But if love comes first, knowledge is sure to follow.”
About 1% for the Planet
Started in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard, founder and owner of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, owner of Blue Ribbon Flies, 1% for the Planet is a growing global movement of over 1,350 member companies in 43 countries that donate one percent of their sales to environmental organizations worldwide. Each day, more than one new business joins the 1% for the Planet movement. As a network, the 1% community has become a frontrunner in funding the work of environmental groups around the world. To learn more about 1% go to: www.onepercentfortheplanet.org
About PEEC
PEEC’s mission is to enhance environmental awareness, knowledge and appreciation through hands-on experience in a natural outdoor classroom. It provides unique, year-round, environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. PEEC is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Nesting Diaries Book Signing at PEEC’s Harvest Festival
September 15, 2013
Local authors, John & Yoke DiGiorgio, will be signing copies of their book, Nesting Diaries: The Triumphant Journey of Four Bald Eagle Chicks, at the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) Harvest Festival this coming Saturday, September 15. The Harvest Festival will take place from 10:00am – 4:00pm and the admission is $5/car.
Nesting Diaries documents, for the first time, the extremely rare phenomenon of two bald eagles that successfully raised and fledged four young from a nest located along the Delaware River in Northampton County, PA. Observations were recorded over fourteen weeks, from the time the four chicks were first observed through several weeks after they fledged. Written in the style of a naturalist’s field notes and illustrated with beautiful photographs throughout, John and Yoke DiGiorgio have provided the reader with an intimate view into bald eagle family life and the eagles’ capacity for commitment and caring tenacity. Anyone interested in eagles, raptors, or natural history in general, will want a copy!
John A. DiGiorgio is an accomplished wildlife and fine art photographer. Yoke Bauer DiGiorgio is a naturalist and wildlife journalist. John and Yoke are Directors of the Delaware Valley Eagle Alliance and founders and organizers of the award winning EagleFest in New York State. Together they are dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of our wildlife and natural environment through their photography, documentary films, educational publications and programs, and events.
For more information visit: www.naturesartproductions.com or contact: John and Yoke DiGiorgio at jyd630@aol.com; info@naturesartproductions.com
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Autumn Adult Nature Weekend at PEEC
September 6, 2012
Enjoy a relaxing weekend in the Poconos! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will debut a new program, an adult nature weekend, September 21-23, 2012. Adults, ages 21 & up, will enjoy interpretive hikes, canoeing, bird walks, art classes, waterfall tours, animal presenters, campfires, and more.
Lodging, meals, and programs will be included for $195/adult. Commuter and day rates are also available. For further information or to register, please call PEEC at 570-828-2319.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Celebrate Autumn at PEEC’s Harvest Festival
August 22, 2012
Celebrate Autumn the traditional way at the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 15, 2012 from 10:00am to 4:00pm. The festival will feature seasonal exhibits and old-time activities including candle making, arts & crafts, and food preservation.
This event will also include hands-on learning stations, conservation exhibits, live music, local food, beverages, and a live animal presentation by the Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Pre-registration is not required and admission is only $5 per car, so stop by with your family and friends to enjoy a beautiful fall day.
PEEC’s mission is to enhance environmental awareness, knowledge and appreciation through hands-on experience in a natural outdoor classroom. It provides unique, year-round, environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. PEEC is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Moonlit Drumming at PEEC
June 25th, 2012
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA. The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting a “Moonlit Drumming” program on Saturday evening, July 14, 2012, from 7:00-9:00pm. Master Drummer, Maxwell Kofi Donkor, will lead this inspiring event.
Participants in Moonlit Drumming will enjoy an introductory lesion and a drumming circle under the moonlit sky. No experience is necessary! Prices are $30/adult and $15/child. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 to register and reserve a drum – spaces are limited, so call early!
For a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs, please visit the Calendar page.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Learn & Explore with PEEC’s Park History Tour
May 31st, 2012
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA. – Explore the history of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is holding its annual Park History Tour on Saturday, June 23, from 9am-3:00pm. The cost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members.
Allison Owczarczak, PEEC’s Director of Education, is scheduled to lead this interesting and in-depth look at the historic buildings of the Park. This year, the tour will be focusing on historic sites located in the New Jersey section of the recreation area, in addition to a stop at the Marie Zimmerman House. Marie Zimmerman, a nationally acclaimed metal crafts artist in the late 19th century, retired to her home in the Milford area in the late 1940’s & 1950’s. The house is currently being restored by the Friends of Marie Zimmerman. Bring a camera for great photo opportunities!
Pre-registration for the Park History Tour is required and spaces are limited. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 to register or check www.peec.org for further details.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s 2012 Summer Day Camp
May 14, 2012
The long, lazy days of summer are fast approaching and the staff at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) are preparing for PEEC’s popular Summer Day Camp.
Summer Day Camp begins at PEEC on June 25 & continues through August 17, 2012 from 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Friday. Campers ages 3-11th grade will have up to 8 weeks to explore, play, and learn about the natural world in which they live. Parents can choose individual weeks or register their children for the entire summer with the assurance that PEEC staff members are fully trained in CPR/First Aid and have completed all background checks.
Tadpoles (3-5 years) will have 5 weeks of camp available. Parents can choose from among such themes as “Fantastic Frogs”, “Bugs & Blooms”, or “Amazing Animals”. Tadpoles stay at PEEC for either a morning half-day or whole day sessions. They will enjoy games, crafts, and outdoor discoveries. A PEEC instructor oversees a maximum of 12 children with the help of camp counselors & volunteers.
The Wet & Slimies (1st – 4th grade) can choose from camp weeks such as “Fossil Frolic”, “Water World”, and “Creepy Crawlies” during 8 sessions. They will experience weeks full of crafts, games, hikes, and nature discover sessions. They will be encouraged to explore the natural world around them, while being closely supervised by our experienced camp staff.
Junior Naturalists (5th – 7th grade) will participate in creative activities that nurture their natural curiosity about the environment. Included will be the ever-popular “Camouflage!” week, as well as “Fishing Frenzy”, and “Outdoor Living Skills”. During these 8 weeks, campers will participate in activities such as interpretive hikes, educational games, fun projects, and more. Junior Nats will also have a weekly late night and several of the weeks will include an overnight stay at PEEC’s tent sites.
Senior Naturalists (8th – 11th grade) will have 5 weeks of activities. Themes will include “Ultimate Adventure”, “River Rendezvous”, and “Outdoor Survival Skills”. The Senior Nats will have weeks filled with exciting adventures & challenges, plus amazing trips at the end of each camp week. The “Backpack Explorer” week will even include a 3 day, 2 night backpacking trip.
PEEC also has a Volunteer Counselor Program for teens ages 15 & up. Volunteer Counselors will learn the expectations of a real job while guiding children & changing lives. Please see the PEEC website for details or call 570-828-2319.
Further information is available on-line at http://www.peec.org/day-camp.html, along with registration forms & on-line registration. For additional details or to have information mailed, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. Weekly registration fees range from $150 – $250 depending upon the camper’s age & the activities included in each week. Options available to parents, for an additional charge, are bagged lunches provided by PEEC & transportation from several area locations.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
“Take Me Fishing Award” Connects Youth to Recreational Fishing
April 30th, 2012
Dingmans Ferry, PA The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) received a Take Me Fishing™ Award from Outdoor Nation, a national organization that reconnects youth to the outdoors. The Take Me Fishing Award will fund family fishing programs, an idea that Molly Check, Public Program Manager at PEEC, developed to increase youth participation in recreational fishing and reconnect youth to the outdoors. The award is made possible by the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF), a nonprofit whose mission is to increase participation in recreational angling and boating.
PEEC will use the funding to offer several fishing programs throughout the year. These programs will offer opportunities to experience the art of fishing in a safe, fun environment. PEEC instructors that trained with the Fish and Boat Commission will lead the fishing classes and provide the necessary equipment. Fishing programs that are open to the public will be held on Saturday May 19, Saturday June 2, and Saturday September 22, from 10am-12pm.
“Fishing is one of the top gateway activities which often leads to participation in other outdoor pursuits,” said RBFF President and CEO Frank Peterson. “We’re pleased to support these awards as a way to connect youth with the outdoors and create future anglers and boaters who will cherish and protect our outdoor spaces.”
Outdoor Nation selects Take Me Fishing Award winners through a competitive application and review process. Ten projects from across the country were chosen for the awards. The projects serve various audiences and activities include therapeutic recreation, ice fishing, university programs, and environmental educational.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for PEEC to teach the basics of fishing to visiting groups, summer campers, and members of the community,” said Molly Check. “I hope that our public programs will be well-received and full of eager fishermen of all ages.”
Outdoor Nation is an initiative of The Outdoor Foundation and was founded with initial support from The North Face, RBFF, The REI Foundation, The Conservation Fund and the National Park Service.
“We are proud to continue empowering young people to champion the outdoors and become leaders in their communities,” said Chris Fanning, executive director of the Outdoor Foundation, the organization that oversees Outdoor Nation. “Thanks to RBFF, America’s youth will help inspire young fishing enthusiasts, engage their diverse and underserved peers and provide valuable skills that will last a lifetime.”


PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Warbler Weekend at PEEC
April 23rd, 2012
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – As spring arrives in the Pocono Mountains, many species of birds are returning from warmer climates. Birders of all levels, novice to experienced, are invited to spend the weekend of May 11-13 at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in search of warblers, raptors, and other migrating birds.
The weekend will begin on Friday evening, May 11 & continue through Sunday afternoon, May 13. Guided field trips will bed led by Darryl Speicher & Peter Wulfhorst, experienced birders who will identify birds by sight, sound, and habitat.
Join us for a weekend with the birds! To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. The cost of the weekend is $195, which includes 2 nights of lodging & 6 meals. Commuter & day rates are also available.
Additional birding programs will be available at PEEC the weekend of May 19 & 20. “Introduction to Birding” programs will be held Saturday, May 19, from 8-10am and Sunday, May 20 from 9-11am. These programs will be free for PEEC members and $5 for non-members. The programs will focus on bird ID, their unique natural history, and the reasons behind annual bird migration. Please visit the Calendar page for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s 2012 Earth Day Celebration
April 18th, 2012
Lehman Township, PA – The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in Dingmans Ferry, PA will host its 17th Annual Earth Day Family Festival on Saturday, April 28th, 2012 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Joining the celebration is a great way to celebrate Earth Day!
Families can enjoy and participate in any of the day’s many activities. A great variety of activities and projects will be available along with guided nature hikes and recycled crafts and games.
The festival will include family-oriented hands-on learning stations, sustainable living ideas, and environmentally-friendly products, businesses, and much more.
Featured events during the day-long celebration include a live animal presentation by Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and Guided Nature Hikes.
Kittatinny Canoes from Dingmans Ferry, PA will be available to introduce families to canoeing and kayaking on PEEC’s front pond.
Also, plan for summer at Earth Day! Register your child for PEEC’s Summer Day Camp and receive an Early Bird Rate. If you sign up at Earth Day, you will receive a $5 per week per child discount on summer camp. The event lasts from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and will be held rain or shine. A barbeque lunch will be available for a nominal fee, so plan to spend the day! Visit www.peec.org, email peec@peec.org or call (570) 828-2319 for driving directions and more information.
Admission to the festival is $5 per carload for all programs and activities. All proceeds from the festival will benefit PEEC’s Youth and Family Education Programs.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Drumming Culture at PEEC
April 17th, 2012
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be offering a “Drum Making Workshop” the weekend of May 4-5, 2012, led by Master Drummer, Maxwell Kofi Donkor.
This wonderful weekend begins the afternoon of Friday, May 4 and continues through Saturday, May 5. Donkor will lead participants through the steps of making their own drums, from selecting the natural materials and soaking the skins to heading the shells. Enjoy introductory drumming lessons, sunrise drumming, historical drumming culture, & more. No experience necessary. Registration is $250 ($200 commuter rate) and this amazing program includes 1 night of lodging & 4 delicious meals.
Master Drummer Donkor will return to PEEC throughout the summer for additional drumming programs. “Moonlit Drumming” will be held at PEEC on July 14, 7-9pm. Registration is $30/adult and $15/child, and participants will enjoy an introductory lesson and a drumming circle under the moonlit sky. “Full Moon Drumming” on August 31, 7-10pm, will be $30/adult and $15/child. This program will also include an introductory lesson and drumming circle, as well as teaching the basics of drumming and its rich cultural heritage, all under the brilliant full moon.
To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319 with your information. Please visit the Calendar page for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s 3rd Annual Community Fish Fry
April 2, 2012
Lehman Township, PA – Celebrate the opening of day of trout season with a delicious community event. The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 3rd Annual Community Fish Fry on April 14, 2012. From 5-7 pm, family & friends can meet at PEEC for a fish fry dinner. After a delightful dinner, enjoy the spring evening with a short canoe paddle on Front Pond.
During the day, while the fishermen & women are wading in the local streams searching for the first catch of the season, there is an additional program available at PEEC. Salamanders have begun stirring in the woods, so join the PEEC staff as they explore nearby breeding pools for salamander egg masses. This $5 event begins at 1:00pm on April 14. Nets & collection jars will be provided for up-close study.
At the end of the day, fishermen, friends, & family can relax and enjoy the fish fry. At $12 for adults and $8 for children 10 & under, it is a great way to end the day. Fish will be provided and, weather permitting, canoeing on PEEC’s Front Pond is included at no extra charge. Please call 570-828-2319 to register for the Salamander Egg Search and the Fish Fry.
PEEC is located on Emery Road in Dingmans Ferry – just minutes from many of the ponds & streams in Lehman Township. For more information, call 570-828-2319, email peec@peec.org, or check www.peec.org.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Sugar Shack Scramble at PEEC
February 23, 2012
Celebrate the end of winter at the Sugar Shack Scramble! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting its 3rd annual Sugar Shack Scramble on Saturday, March 10, from 9am-12:30pm. The cost is $15 per adult and $10 per child.
Enjoy an orienteering expedition that leads to a sugar shack in the woods! Participants will travel in guided groups, using a map and compass to find the sugar shack. Upon arrival, you will learn about the maple sugaring process, see the maple sap as boils down to syrup, and enjoy hot cocoa and pancakes with fresh PA maple syrup.
Pre-registration is required and spaces are limited. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 to sign up for a 9:00am or 9:30am start time.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Jessica Snyder Awarded Outdoor Nation Grant
February 16th, 2012
Dingmans Ferry, PA (2/9/12) Today Jessica Snyder from Dingmans Ferry, PA was awarded an activation grant from Outdoor Nation, a national initiative that reconnects youth to the outdoors. The Outdoor Nation activation grant will fund Women on the Water, an idea Snyder developed to reconnect youth to America’s natural and cultural heritage. The winning project supports the goals of President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors initiative, which aims to create a 21st century conservation and recreation agenda, and the grant was made possible by the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, the community assistance arm of the National Park Service.
Women on the Water provides 45 female high school students from urban Philadelphia, New York City, and rural Pennsylvania the opportunity to explore and learn about the Delaware River and its associated riparian ecosystems from its beginnings in upstate New York all the way to the bay in Philadelphia. The young women will have many opportunities to learn about environmental education while paddling and sleeping on the river, volunteering in the National Park visitor centers, and participating in a 2- 4 week mentor/internship program at the Pocono Environmental Education Center.
“We are very proud to turn our young people’s ideas into actions,” said Chris Fanning, executive director of the Outdoor Foundation, the organization that oversees Outdoor Nation. “The Outdoor Nation activation grants will help empower youth to take on their generation’s most significant outdoor challenges by removing barriers to outdoor participation, making the outdoors more relevant, and engaging more young people in outdoor activities.”
Outdoor Nation awards grants through a competitive application and review process. Twenty projects from across the country were chosen for the Outdoor Nation activation grant. The projects serve various audiences and activities include kayaking, photography, inner-city outreach, hiking, painting, biking, environmental education, and map and compass skills.
“I envision these young ladies gaining a better understanding about the outdoor world and its opportunities, as well as having many powerful experiences that they can build upon later in life,” said Jessica Snyder, Summer Camp, Special Events, and Volunteer Coordinator at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC). Snyder has been working at PEEC for the past 2 years. She attended Neumann University in Aston, Pennsylvania, and graduated with a degree in Environmental Studies. She is looking forward to the opportunity to share her outdoor experiences with the particpants.
Outdoor Nation is an initiative of The Outdoor Foundation and was founded with initial support from The North Face, Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, The REI Foundation, The Conservation Fund and the National Park Service.


Eagle Watches at PEEC
January 25th, 2012
Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will lead several Eagle Watches during January & February. Each of the Eagle Watches will include several stops, including the Eagle Institute in Lackawaxen, PA. The program will provide opportunities to see eagles soaring, feeding, and nest guarding. The events will be held Saturday, January 28 & Saturday, February 4, from 9:00am-3:00pm and the cost is $25 per person.
Also, on Sunday, February 12, PEEC will host an additional Eagle Watch as a part of its monthly “Sundays for Singles” programs. This $25 event will also be held from 9:00am – 3:00pm
Also, on Sunday, February 12, PEEC will host an additional Eagle Watch as a part of its monthly “Sundays for Singles” programs. This $25 event will also be held from 9:00am – 3:00pm
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
October 2013 – PEEC’s 4th Annual Game Dinner
September 2013 – Wild Things Ball to Benefit PEEC
August 2013 – Princeton Alumni and PEEC
July 2013 – Kids Learn While Frogs Frolic
July 2013 – Thank You from Harvey Milk High School
June 2013 – Letter to the Editor – Elkins Park Field Trip to PEEC
May 2013 – PEEC Summer Day Camp
April 2013 – Bridge the Gap Program at PEEC
March 2013 – PEEC Teams with MCTI, SkillsUSA, and Lowes
February 2013 – Malcolm X Shabazz Students Conduct Field Research
January 2013 – Eagle Watches at PEEC
Lenape Program & Winter Survival Hike
November 19, 2013
Mike Dennis of Traditional Earth Skills will present two programs at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in December. “Lenape of the Eastern Woodlands” will be held Saturday, December 7 and a “Winter Survival Hike” will be held Saturday, December 14. Both programs will be from 1:00 – 3:00 pm and pre-registration is requested.
“Lenape of the Eastern Woodlands” will teach participants about the day-to-day activities of the Lenape culture. The food, clothing, and shelter of the local hunter gatherers will be presented, along with handmade artifacts. The program is best suited for ages 10+ and is $20 per person. .
The “Winter Survival Hike” will teach hikers a variety of techniques required to survive in the woods during the winter months. Participants of this interactive hike will learn useful wintertime skills, including how to build a basic shelter and start a fire with minimal supplies. The winter survival hike is open to all ages and is also $20 per person.
Mike Dennis has studied native wilderness skills and botany since 1995. His company, Traditional Earth Skills, was founded in 2006 and offers a variety of living history, as well as wilderness skills, workshops, and presentations. These programs are combined with a genuine concern for recent climate changes occurring world-wide, ultimately hoping to create solutions with which we can all live.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC at www.peec.org.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s Wild Things Ball a Great Success
November 5, 2013
PEEC’s first annual “Wild Things” Ball, held Saturday November 2 at the Hotel Fauchere in Milford, was a great success. Over 100 people attended, to launch PEEC’s 21st Century Sustainability Campaign, and raised approximately $45,000 net of expenses. According to Rebecca Lindsey, a member of the event committee: “We could not be happier with the outcome. We exceeded our goals for attendance and fundraising, but most importantly, we wanted to have an event that was both beautiful and fun, so that people will want to come back year after year. Thanks to the hard work of many volunteers and the Fauchere staff—not to mention a great band– I think we succeeded.” Jeff Rosalsky, PEEC Director, added: “PEEC is a private non-profit organization, dependent for most of its support on private fundraising. Since we receive no government funding, events like this one make a critical difference in our ability to undertake capital improvements.” Rosalsky noted that this fall was particularly difficult for PEEC, which is located on National Park Service land. The Park Service required PEEC to close to the public during the federal government shutdown, and PEEC lost tens of thousands of dollars in revenue.
PEEC’s 21st Century Sustainability Campaign has as its centerpiece a new Sustainability Lodge, designed like PEEC’s dining hall by architect Peter Bohlin. Bohlin attended the Wild Things ball and spoke about his vision for the Lodge. He also provided a sketch of the Lodge for the event auction. Many other local businesses and individuals also donated to the auction, which was conducted by Sean Strub of the Fauchere. Randy Auman and Jim Vandevender of Milford were responsible for the event décor.
PEEC’s 4th Annual Game Dinner
October 28, 2013
The growing season has come to an end in the Poconos. Colorful leaves are drifting to the ground and temperatures are cooling. Celebrate the fall season with friends & family at the 4th Annual Community Game Dinner being held at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) on Saturday, November 16 from 7:00 – 9:00pm.
This relaxing and enjoyable evening has grown in attendance each year. The menu will feature fun dishes such as: Bacon-Wrapped Quail Legs, Butternut Squash Soup, Rabbit Pot-Pie, Venison Chili, Venison Sausage & Rice, and assorted desserts. A vegetarian option will also be available. Dinner price is $35 per person or $60 per couple and registration is required.
Tickets to the Game Dinner sold out last year. Interested parties should call PEEC at 570-828-2319 for more information or to register.
PEEC’s mission is to enhance environmental awareness, knowledge, and appreciation through hands-on experience in a natural outdoor classroom. It provides unique year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. PEEC is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit http://www.peec.org/eventssubject.html for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Exciting Additions to the November 2nd Wild Things Ball
October 14, 2013
PEEC has announced further exciting plans for its Nov. 2 “Wild Things” ball. Most notably, the Robbi Kumalo Quartet will be playing at the event. Members of the Kumalo quartet have played backup for everyone from Paul Simon, Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin to Rod Stewart. Gail Rosalsky, a member of the Event Committee, said “This exciting ensemble guarantees everyone a wonderful evening of music and dancing. We hope the entire community will turn out to celebrate with us.”
The evening will also include a small auction of unusual items: a week at an apartment in the heart of historic Amsterdam, a photo shoot by celebrated author and photographer Lisa Levart, a private cabaret performance by Milford’s own Ed Raarup and Scott Eck, accompanied by acclaimed Broadway pianist Michael Rice, and much more.
“Wild Things” is a fundraiser for PEEC’s 21st century Sustainability Campaign. Details of the Sustainable Campus and other exciting aspects of the Campaign will be unveiled at the event.
PEEC is immensely grateful to the corporate sponsors of “Wild Things,” AM Skier and the Dime Bank, and to the many civic-minded members of the community who are individual sponsors. Thanks to them, much of the ticket and auction proceeds will be available for PEEC’s Campaign goals, including expansion of its core educational mission. Donor support is particularly critical at this time, because although PEEC is a private non-profit corporation, receiving no operating funding from the federal government, it is located within National Park Service land, and was forced to close to the public when the government shutdown meant that Park Service lands were closed. PEEC is losing substantial revenue as a result of the shutdown.
To purchase individual tickets to the Wild Things Ball, please click the “Buy Tickets Online” button which will redirect you to Paypal to complete your order.
To purchase a sponsorship (includes 2 tickets) for the Wild Things Ball, please click the “Sponsor Online” button which will redirect you to Paypal to complete your order.
To donate to PEEC, please click the “Donate Online” button which will redirect you to Paypal to complete your donation.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319.PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Birds of Prey Migration at PEEC
September 30, 2013
As fall arrives in the Pocono Mountains, many species of birds are leaving the northern areas and returning to warmer, southern climates. Birders of all levels, novice to experienced, are invited to spend Saturday, October 5 at the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) Birds of Prey Migration program from 9:00am – 4:00pm.
PEEC staff will transport raptor watchers to Sunrise Mountain and will be available to provide further information & answer questions. The program is $15 and participants should dress in warm layers, bring a folding chair, water, and snacks. To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Wild Things Ball to Benefit PEEC
September 5, 2013
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) has announced plans for a dinner dance on November 2, 2013, to kick off its “21st Century Sustainability Campaign.” The “Wild Things Ball”, inspired by the renowned Maurice Sendak story and the wild creatures of the Poconos, will take place at the Hotel Fauchere, with a three-course dinner, dancing, and a small auction of unique opportunities and items.
According to Jeff Rosalsky, PEEC’s Executive Director, the Sustainability Campaign will add new dimensions to PEEC’s longtime mission of educating children and adults about environmental stewardship. “This campaign will help us teach the thousands of people who visit PEEC about sustainable practices. For instance, we plan to incorporate different types of sustainable energy systems – solar, wind, super-insulation, and geothermal – to power and heat different buildings at PEEC. Visiting groups will be able to see, learn about, monitor, and compare the costs of different energy generation methods. We are also thrilled that Peter Bohlin, architect of the Apple retail stores and PEEC’s eco-friendly dining hall, has designed a ‘sustainable’ lodge to be built at PEEC,” stated Rosalsky.
PEEC Board Member Erica Cullman is helping to plan the Sustainability Campaign kickoff party. According to Cullman, “This campaign is the most significant in PEEC’s history and we are planning the best party in PEEC’s 41-year history to launch it. It will be fabulous and we hope to see the whole community there.”
AM Skier Insurance, Hawley, PA and The Dime Bank, Honesdale, PA are corporate sponsors of the Wild Things Ball. A number of individuals are also serving as sponsors. Tickets for the event are $125 per person and individual sponsorships, which include 2 tickets, are $500. Everyone in the community is warmly invited to attend and/or support the event. Ticket purchases and donations can be made online at www.peec.org/about/wild-things-ball or by calling Janine at 570-828-2319.
Fall Harvest Festival at PEEC
September 3, 2013
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will celebrate autumn at the 3rd annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 21, 2013 from 10:00am to 4:00pm. The festival will feature animal presenters, arts & crafts, hands-on activities, conservation exhibits, live music, local food, old-timey activities, and more!
This year, Jessica Aurand, 2013 Pennsylvania Honey Princess will be attending the event. She will be sharing information about the importance of honeybees, products from the hive, a bee keeper’s role, and pollination. Old-timey activities will include cheese making, corn grinding, homemade applesauce, and more! Pre-registration for the Harvest Festival is not required and admission is only $5 per car to enjoy a beautiful fall day.
PEEC’s mission is to enhance environmental awareness, knowledge, and appreciation through hands-on experience in a natural outdoor classroom. It provides unique, year-round, environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. PEEC is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit the website at www.peec.org for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Impacting Environmental Sustainability Through Community Volunteers
August 29, 2013
This is the story of two Princeton alumni who connected through our Community Volunteers program and are achieving great success through their collaborative work in the public interest: Jeff Rosalsky ’85, Executive Director of the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), and Bill Woodrow ’70, who is currently serving as a Community Volunteer. Our program connects alumni with significant career experience to nonprofits with capacity-building needs. Alumni volunteer their professional skills to fill these needs through short-term, high-impact projects. An interview with Jeff is featured below. Stay tuned next week for an interview with Bill.
Although he began his career in the financial sector, Jeff ultimately found himself devoting a second career to public service. He started as volunteer and then board member for PEEC. After agreeing to temporarily fill the position of Executive Director, he realized his commitment to the organization and accepted the position full-time. PEEC’s current project requires extensive retrofitting of the on-site environmental education cabins. Jeff spoke to AlumniCorps Program Assistant Melissa Stewart ’16 about the impact of the Community Volunteer project on the work of his organization.
Bill Woodrow ’70 was seeking an opportunity to volunteer in the community and use his professional skills when he came across an environmental education project offered through AlumniCorps’ Community Volunteers program. Bill’s expertise and background aligned closely with the needs of the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC). He immediately signed up to help fundraise and acquire material donations for the retrofitting of cabins at PEEC and showcase environmental sustainability. Bill is now in the midst of completing the project, applying his expertise while also developing new skills. Program Assistant Melissa Stewart ’16 spoke with Bill about his experience as a Community Volunteer.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
2013 Pennsylvania Honey Princess to attend Harvest Festival
August 19, 2013
Did you know that honeybees account for 80 percent of all insect pollination? Without this pollination, we would see a significant decrease in the number of fruits and vegetables produced. Did you also know that honeybees travel to over two million flowers to produce one pound of honey and each bee only produces one twelfth (1/12) of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime?
Its facts like these that 2013 Pennsylvania Honey Princess, Jessica Aurand, will share when she visits the Pocono Environmental Education Center Harvest Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 21. Aurand will provide information on the importance of honeybees, a beekeepers role, pollination and products from the hive while visiting the festival. She will also have an observation hive of live honeybees.
Aurand, 17, is the daughter of Randy and Barbara Aurand of Middleburg. She is a senior at Midd-West High School where she is active with track and plays the saxophone in several school bands. Outside of school, Aurand is active with 4-H, FFA, enjoys horseback riding and caring for her family’s hives. She plans on attending college in the hopes of becoming a large animal veterinarian.
As the 2013 Pennsylvania Honey Princess, Aurand travels throughout the state promoting the beekeeping and honey industries by attending schools, fairs, festivals and participating in media interviews.
For more information on 2013 Pennsylvania Honey Princess Jessica Aurand visit the Pennsylvania State Beekeepers Association website at www.pastatebeekeepers.org.
Like us on Facebook at “Pennsylvania Honey Queen Program.”
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Women in the Woods Weekend at PEEC
August 5, 2013
Get away from it all! Relax and connect with the natural world at the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) Girls Weekend – Women in the Woods, August 17 – 18. The weekend is open to all women ages 18+. This gentle introduction to the outdoors is perfect for novice & experienced nature lovers alike.
Girls Weekend will begin Saturday, August 17, and continue through Sunday, August 18. Enjoy a relaxing nature hike through the forest, a peaceful canoe across the pond, and star gazing under the moonlit sky. Programs include early morning yoga, making natural beauty products, and more!
To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. The cost of the weekend is $99, which includes 1 night of lodging in a comfortable yurt and three delicious meals. Commuter & day rates are also available.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Kids Learn While Frogs Frolic at Pocono Environmental
The Times-Tribune
July 15, 2013
“If you see it moving, bring it over.”…
Read the entire article: The Times-Tribune Article
Thank you from Harvey Milk High School
July 5, 2013
I wanted to extend my sincere thanks for our wonderful weekend at PEEC to the incredible staff.
Your staff and accommodations were exceptional. The students absolutely loved the experience and it was unquestionably the highlight of the school year for all of us. Your staff treated students with respect and professionalism. The weekend was the perfect balance of collaborative learning and enjoying the beauty of the Poconos. Highlights included the night hike and canoeing, although students seemed to enjoy every single activity on the itinerary.
Our genuine gratitude for all of your hard work and tremendous generosity in making this weekend happen. Please know how much your efforts are appreciated and create indelible memories for New York City students.
Sincerely,
JoAnne Di Lauro
ELA Teacher/College Counselor
Harvey Milk High School
Moonlit Drumming at PEEC
June 24, 2013
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting three “Moonlit Drumming” programs this summer. These amazing programs will take place on the Saturday evenings of July 13, August 10, and August 24, from 6:30-9:30pm. Master Drummer, Maxwell Kofi Donkor, a native of Ghana, West Africa, will lead these unforgettable experiences.
Join us for an introductory lesson and a drumming circle under the moonlit sky. No experience is necessary! Prices are $30/adult and $15/child. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 to register and reserve a drum – spaces are limited, so call early!
For a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs, please visit http://peec.org/programs/events.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC Helps Keep Kittatiny Point Open This Summer
Delaware Water Gap NRA Press Release
June 13, 2013
Superintendent John J. Donahue announced today that a consortium of five local canoe livery operators and the PSEG Foundation—a philanthropic arm of the New Jersey-based utility company Public Service Electric and Gas (PSE&G) and their parent company Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG)- have generously provided a combined donation of $70,000 to reopen Kittatinny Point, a popular visitor destination located off Interstate 80 on the New Jersey side of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The donations of $50,000 from PSEG Foundation and $20,000 from the liveries will keep the grounds at Kittatinny Point, including the canoe access, picnic area, parking lot, and restrooms, open for the summer season. The visitor center will remain closed.
Initially slated to be closed as a result of sequestration, Kittatinny Point is one of the most popular sites in the nearly 70,000 acre national park unit. It provides access to some of the area’s best hiking trails, including the Appalachian National Scenic Trail which passes through the recreation area, and to the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River. The grounds also boast some of the best views of the iconic geologic feature after which the park is named, the Delaware Water Gap. Due to its proximity to Interstate 80, Kittatinny Point is a prime location for visitors who seek easy access to nature and the great outdoors.
When officials from the PSEG Foundation learned that Kittatinny Point would be closed, they contacted the National Park Service (NPS) and Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), a park partner and residential environmental education center located within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, to discuss how they might help. “PSEG is pleased to make this donation to the Pocono Environmental Education Center to help keep Kittatinny Point open and usable to the public this summer,” said Ellen Lambert, President of the PSEG Foundation. “The company continually looks for opportunities to support the communities in which we are working. We strive to not only have minimal impact on the communities, but also work to help make them better. Providing funding to help keep the park open fits perfectly with our mission.” PEEC will work with the NPS to ensure that the donated funds are directed to the operation of Kittatinny Point.
PEEC’s Executive Director Jeffrey Rosalsky also commented, “We are fortunate to have a national park and the Delaware River as a vast outdoor classroom for our environmental education programs which promote connections to nature. PEEC’s forty-year partnership with the park is more vital than ever and we are pleased to be able to work with the PSEG Foundation and the NPS to restore access to an important part of the park.” PEEC is a not-for-profit organization located within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area whose mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation of nature through hands-on experiences in a national park.
Read the entire press release: Delaware Water Gap NRA Press Release
Macro Flower Photography at PEEC
June 3, 2013
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will host Macro Flower Photography Weekend from June 28 – 30. Kathy Peoples, Certified Professional Photographer and Educator, will lead the 3-day workshop. Participants will shoot and learn how to pinpoint focus, blur the background, saturate colors, and more. Practice with close-up filters, extension tubes, macro lenses or bring your own. New Photoshop techniques will also be shown; bring your laptop to participate or just watch. We will be visiting the surrounding area along with Marie Zimmerman’s farm for many photo opportunities.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Letter to the Editor – Elkins Park Field Trip to PEEC
Times Chronicle / Glenside News
June 2, 2013
“… There are so many aspects of this amazing experience that impressed me. …”
Read the entire Letter to the Editor: Times Chronicle / Glenside News
2013 PEEC Summer Day Camp
May 28, 2013
The long, lazy days of summer are fast approaching and the staff at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) are preparing for PEEC’s popular Summer Day Camp.
Summer Day Camp begins at PEEC on June 24 & continues through August 16, 2013 from 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Friday. Campers (ages 3 years -11th grade) will have up to 8 weeks to explore, play, and learn about the natural world in which they live. Parents can choose individual weeks or register their children for the entire summer with the assurance that PEEC staff members are fully trained in CPR/First Aid and have completed all background checks.
Tadpoles (3-5 years) will have 7 weeks of camp available. Parents can choose from among such themes as “Fantastic Frogs”, “Bugs & Butterflies”, or “Amazing Animals”. Tadpoles stay at PEEC for either a morning half-day or whole day sessions. They will enjoy games, crafts, and outdoor discoveries. A PEEC instructor oversees a maximum of 12 children with the help of camp counselors & volunteers.
The Wet & Slimies (1st – 4th grade) can choose from camp weeks such as “Fossil Frolic”, “Water World”, and “Creepy Crawlies” during 8 sessions. They will experience weeks full of crafts, games, hikes, and nature discover sessions. They will be encouraged to explore the natural world around them, while being closely supervised by our experienced camp staff.
Junior Naturalists (5th – 7th grade) will participate in creative activities that nurture their natural curiosity about the environment. Included will be the ever-popular “Camouflage!” week, as well as “Fishing Frenzy”, and “Outdoor Living Skills”. During these 8 weeks, campers will participate in activities such as interpretive hikes, educational games, fun projects, and more. Junior Nat weeks may also include a late night or an overnight stay at PEEC.
Senior Naturalists (8th – 11th grade) will have 5 weeks of activities. Themes will include “Ultimate Adventure”, “River Rendezvous”, and “Outdoor Survival Skills”. The Senior Nats will have weeks filled with exciting adventures & challenges, plus amazing trips at the end of each camp week. The “Backpack Explorer” week will even include a 3 day, 2 night backpacking trip.
PEEC also has a Volunteer Counselor Program for teens ages 15 & up. Volunteer Counselors will learn the expectations of a real job while guiding children & changing lives. Please see the PEEC website for details or call 570-828-2319.
Further information is available on-line at http://peec.org/programs/summer-day-camp along with registration forms & on-line registration. For additional details or to have information mailed, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. Weekly registration fees range from $150 – $250 depending upon the camper’s age & the activities included in each week. Options available to parents, for an additional charge, are bagged lunches provided by PEEC & transportation from several area locations.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Cicada Mania!
May 20, 2013
As the ground warms, periodical cicadas that have spent the last 17 years underground will emerge and take to the skies. On Saturday, June 1, the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will hold a program focusing on these amazing insects. The class will be from 1:00 – 3:00pm and the cost is $5 per person.
There will be different educational stations for you to visit. Program participants will learn about the life-cycle of the cicada, how they survive years underground, and what adaptations make them so unique. Make a cicada craft, learn about these fascinating insects, and see how many you can catch!
Periodical cicadas do not bite or sting, and this brood only emerges once every 17 years, so come out and take advantage of this amazing natural event!
Other programs at PEEC the first weekend of June will include: Volunteer Day – National Trails Day, June 1 from 9:00am-12:00pm; Family Fishing on June 2 from 10:00am-12:00pm; and EcoZone Exploration & Discovery Room on June 2 from 1:00 – 4:00pm.
Registration is requested for all programs. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 or email peec@peec.org. Visit www.peec.org for a complete list of all upcoming events and programs.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC online at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Upcoming Birding Programs at PEEC
May 1, 2013
As spring arrives in the Pocono Mountains, many species of birds are returning from warmer climates. Birders of all levels, novice to experienced, are invited to spend the weekend of May 10-12 at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in search of warblers, raptors, and other migrating birds.
Warbler Weekend will begin on Friday evening, May 10 & continue through Sunday afternoon, May 12. Guided field trips will bed led by Darryl Speicher, from the Pocono Avian Research Center, and other experienced guides who will identify birds by sight, sound, and habitat.
Join us for a weekend with the birds! To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. The cost of the weekend is $195, which includes 2 nights of lodging & 6 meals. Commuter & day rates are also available.
A second birding program, Bird Walk, will be held at PEEC on Saturday, May 18. This program, free for PEEC members and $5 for non-members, is for anyone interested in learning more about birds. Darryl Speicher, from the Pocono Avian Research Center, will lead a hike focusing on the identification of birds and their unique natural history. The program is most appropriate for ages 10+; binoculars and field guides will be provided. Please visit www.peec.org for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Bridge the Gap Program at PEEC
Delaware Water Gap Park Gets $20K Foundation Grant
David Pierce, Pocono Record – April 30, 2013
The public is invited to hike, bike and canoe in the national park, and it won’t cost anything.
The National Park Foundation has awarded a $20,000 grant to Pocono Environmental Education Center and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area to promote local exploration of park facilities. PEEC is in the recreation area in Dingmas Ferry, Pike County.
Read the entire article: Pocono Record Article
Native Plant Sale and Gardening Programs at PEEC
April 29, 2013
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be holding its annual native plant sale on Saturday, May 4 from 9:00am-4:00pm. There is no admission to attend the sale and many varieties of native and deer resistant flowers, shrubs, and grasses will be available. Celebrate the blossoming of Spring with the Native Plant Sale!
Shade plants, sun plants, and deer-resistant plants will be available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors! Foxglove, Creeping Phlox, and Shrub Roses are a few of the many options. PEEC Members will be able to attend a pre-sale on Friday, May 3 from 6:00-8:00pm.
Flower and garden programs continue at PEEC on Sunday, May 5. The Wildflower Walk will be held from 9:00am-12:00pm. Participant in this free program will learn about wildflowers during a guided walk through the woods. The second session of this year’s Garden Series, Butterfly Gardens, will be held from 1:00-3:00pm, also on May 5. Participants will learn how to provide the right food, water, and shelter to increase the variety of butterflies visiting their gardens.
For more information or to register for the Wildflower Walk or Butterfly Gardens, please call 570-828-2319 or email peec@peec.org.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC Introduces Sportsman Series with Class on Fly Fishing
April 17, 2013
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting a new series for outdoor sport enthusiasts. The first class in the Sportsman Series, Introduction to Fly Fishing, will focus on beginner skills for the amateur fly fisher. Tom Battista from the Brodhead Chapter of Trout Unlimited will teach several new skills, including knot tying and casting. This program will take place on April 28, 2013, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The cost is $20 for one class, or $50 to attend all three classes in the Sportsman Series.
The Sportsman Series will continue with a second program, “Bring Out Your Dead” on July 20 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. This program will be led by Ronald Lewis of the Pennsylvania Taxidermy Association. The final program in the Sportsman Series will be “White Tailed Deer from A to Z” on November 10 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Registration is requested for all parts of the Sportsman Series. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 for more information or to reserve a space.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s 2013 Earth Day Celebration
April 14, 2013
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in Dingmans Ferry, PA will host its 18th Annual Earth Day Family Festival on Saturday, April 20th, 2012 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Joining the celebration is a great way to celebrate Earth Day!
Families can enjoy and participate in any of the day’s many activities. A great variety of activities and projects will be available along with recycled crafts and games.
The festival will include family-oriented hands-on learning stations, sustainable living ideas, and environmentally-friendly products, businesses, and much more.
Back by popular demand is our tie-dying station! Bring cotton shirts, socks, pillowcases, and other items to be tie-dyed with your very own colorful design. PEEC t-shirts will also be available for purchase.
Featured events during the day-long celebration include a live animal presentation, EcoZone tours, nature hikes, and bike riding provided by Action Bikes and Outdoor .
PEEC Staff will be available to introduce families to canoeing and kayaking on PEEC’s front pond.
Also, plan for summer at Earth Day! Register your child for PEEC’s Summer Day Camp and receive an Early Bird Rate. Registration on Earth Day will receive a $5 per week per child discount on summer camp.
The event lasts from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and will be held rain or shine. A barbeque lunch will be available for a nominal fee, so plan to spend the day! Visit www.peec.org, email peec@peec.org, or call (570) 828-2319 for driving directions and more information.
Admission to the festival is $5 per carload for all programs and activities. All proceeds from the festival will benefit PEEC’s Youth and Family Education Programs.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC Teams with MCTI, SkillsUSA, and Lowes
March 14, 2013
Monroe Career & Technical Institute receives grant for Schools in Need Grant.
Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation funds students’ good works.
MOORESVILLE, N.C. – Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation has awarded a $24,792.00 Lowe’s Toolbox for Education grant to Monroe Career & Technical Institute for renovating cabins at Pennsylvania Environmental Education Center, PEEC in Dingmans Ferry, PA.
Building Trade Maintenance and Electrical Students will renovate ten cabins in need of new windows, doors, siding, plumbing and electrical systems. The students will use these cabins to gain experience in renovating structures and PEEC will receive the benefit of the work they will do. In turn, this will help PEEC implement their environmental education mission with thousands of economically disadvantage youth each year.
“The grant in Bartonsville represents Lowe’s commitment to career and technical education,” said Marshall Croom, chairman of Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation. “By supporting schools Monroe Career & Technical Institute, we believe we are contributing to a cause that’s important to our customers and employees by helping provide improved learning environments and building stronger communities.”
ABOUT SKILLSUSA
SkillsUSA helps students discover and grow their career passions. As a nationwide partnership of students, instructors and industry working together, SkillsUSA works to ensure America has a skilled workforce. It helps every student excel. The nationwide career and technical education student organization annually serves more than 320,000 high school, college and postsecondary students-and their instructors-in technical, skilled, and service occupation instructional programs. Career and technical education is learning that works for America. SkillsUSA has the active support of more than 1,100 corporations, trade associations, business and labor unions at the national level. Over 10.5 million people have been annual members of SkillsUSA since its founding as the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America in 1965. SkillsUSA programs teach leadership, citizenship and character development to complement technical skill training. The organization emphasizes respect for the dignity of work, ethics, workmanship, scholarship and safety. For more information, go to http://www.skillsusa.org.
ABOUT LOWE’S
Lowe’s supports the communities it serves through programs that focus on K-12 public education and community improvement projects. The company’s signature education grant program, Lowe’s Toolbox for Education®, has donated nearly $5 million in grants to K-12 public schools every year since its inception in 2006. Lowe’s Heroes employee volunteers support local community projects and our national nonprofit partners such as Habitat for Humanity and the American Red Cross. In 2011, Lowe’s and the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation together contributed more than $32 million to support communities in the United
States, Canada and Mexico. To learn more, visit Lowes.com/SocialResponsibility.
Equinox Extravaganza at PEEC
March 11, 2013
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – Celebrate the end of winter and welcome the new growing season! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will host its annual Equinox Extravaganza on Saturday, March 23 from 1:00-4:00pm. Admission is $5 per child.
Each year, the spring equinox occurs when the daylight hours and nighttime hours are equal. This year, the spring (or vernal) equinox will occur on March 20. Participants at PEEC’s Equinox Extravaganza can commemorate the coming of spring and the lengthening of the daylight hours with this family-oriented event full of fun and educational stations on a guided trail. Please call 570-828-2319 for details or check www.peec.org.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Malcolm X Shabazz Students Conduct Field Research at PEEC
February 18, 2013
MXS/UT Collaborate in Scientific Research
Malcolm X Shabazz (MXS) High School students continue their collaboration with researchers, Dr. Karen Lloyd and Dr. Andrew Steen, at the University of Tennessee (UT) department of Microbiology that began earlier this school year. The MXS/UT alliance has been studying enzyme activities in aquatic ecosystems (streams, estuaries and the ocean) near Newark, NJ. Students and teachers in their classrooms periodically meet with UT professors in their laboratories via Skype, where question and answer sessions reveal to students the process of scientific discovery.
MXS students are working with UT researchers on a primary research project focused on understanding how bacteria acquire food in the streams, estuaries and coastal ocean of New Jersey. The collaboration will culminate in two weeks of field research in which MXS students will work with UT scientists to measure the activities of protein-degrading in New Jersey and nearby waters. “These enzymes are a key intermediate in the conversion of plant material into carbon dioxide (CO2) and therefore serve as a control on the rate of global warming. UT professors and MXS students will collaborate to measure a set of enzymes which have never been previously measured in freshwater, so we expect that this collaboration will result in valuable, novel scientific data.”, explains Dr. Lloyd.
MXS students have begun by using Google Scholar to identify and examine scientific papers to gain exposure to the state-of-the-art in protein enzyme research. Dr. Lloyd remarked that she was pleased by the type of questions asked by MXS students. And just this week, MXS was awarded a Teacher Innovation Fund Grant from the Foundation for Newark’s Future (FNF), which enables MXS to purchase scientific instrumentation as well as fund two scientific expeditions. “This lets us obtain primary data. There is even the possibility that we will submit our findings for scientific publication.”, said Mr. Murray, teacher and grant writer.
Dr. Steen and his colleagues have made some recent discoveries making the UT/MXS effort especially promising, so everyone has high hopes of discovering something new. Dr. Steen said, “Most advances in knowledge are small, others are large. And some discover nothing.” Even though no one can predict the experimental findings, everyone experiences how to conduct science at the frontier of knowledge.
Ms. Nang Chi, a chemistry teacher at MXS, is familiar with the scientific research process and has previously worked as an industrial chemist. She has been preparing to purchase and house the new scientific instruments which will be used to gather the primary experimental data. Ms. Chi and Mr. Murray co-advise the Math and Science Club at MXS, where student researchers scour the internet for relevant research papers. Ms. Chi commented, “Students have already found one or two papers which are quite good.” So students see for themselves that to move science forward, they must first read and re-read scholarly papers and gain exposure to the work of other scientists.
Experiment procedures have been designed and continue to be refined by Dr. Steen, an enzyme expert. Students spent some time examining his first-cut experimental protocol, with the understanding that over time, it might change. Recent developments by Dr. Steen have called for an update. “Science doesn’t always go according to plan.”, explained Dr. Steen. Students laughed out loud. Dr. Steen will travel to MXS to prep students prior to their joint expedition to the Pocono Environment Education Center (PEEC) on May 20, 21, and 22. PEEC Environmentalists are identifying numerous water sources for potential testing.
During the PEEC experiments, Dr. Lloyd will be diving on Alvin, the deep-water submersible craft. She is looking into conducting a Skype session with MXS students at PEEC while she is at sea, weather permitting. Dr. Lloyd also offered to obtain a sample from the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico for the enzyme experiment. With a little luck, perhaps students could witness that sampling process. Students found that offer hard to refuse!
Sugar Shack Scramble at PEEC
February 15th, 2013
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – Celebrate the end of winter at the Sugar Shack Scramble! The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is hosting its 4th annual Sugar Shack Scramble on Saturday, March 9, from 9am-12:30pm. The cost is $15 per adult and $10 per child.
Enjoy an orienteering expedition that leads to a sugar shack in the woods! Participants will travel in guided groups, using a map and compass to find the sugar shack. Upon arrival, you will learn about the maple sugaring process, see the maple sap as it boils down to syrup, and enjoy hot cocoa and pancakes with fresh PA maple syrup.
Pre-registration is required and spaces are limited. Please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 to sign up for a 9:00am or 9:30am start time.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Upcoming Garden Series at PEEC
February 11th, 2013
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will present a garden series beginning February 24, 2013. Participants will learn low-cost, easy ways to start seeds, create a butterfly garden, and compost. The cost is $10 per session or $25 for all three sessions and pre-registration is requested.
Session 1, “Starting Seeds Inside”, will be held Sunday, February 24 from 10:00am-12:00pm. This program will discuss garden maps and starting “cold crop” seeds indoors. “Butterfly Gardens” will be held Sunday, May 5 from 1:00-3:00pm and will teach participants how to provide the correct food, water, and shelter to increase the variety of butterflies visiting their gardens. The final session, “Composting,” will be Saturday, July 27 from 1:00-3:00pm. Participants will learn about the advantages of composting and how to begin creating this environmentally-friendly fertilizer.
For more information or to register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on-line at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
January & February Eagle Watches at PEEC
January 7th, 2013
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be presenting several Eagle Watches during January & February. Each of the Eagle Watches will be led by Jan Lakuta and will include visits to the Mongaup Reservoir, the Delaware River, and the Eagle Institute. Participants will look for winter residents and nesting pairs. The events will be held Saturday, January 26; Saturday, February 2; and Sunday, February 3. All programs will be held from 9:00am-3:00pm and the cost is $25 per person.
For more information or to register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. Participants should register at least one week in advance to guarantee a seat in the van. Participants should bring a lunch and a camera and dress in warm layers. The groups will all meet at PEEC’s main building to begin the eagle watching adventure.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
November 2011 – EcoZone Grand Opening!
October 2011 – PEEC has Bats in the Belfry … I mean the EcoZone
September 2011 – Bear Bones in the EcoZone?
August 2011 – Autumn Bird Migration Weekend at PEEC
July 2011 – New Rain Garden at PEEC
June 2011 – PEEC’s 10th Annual Golf Outing
April 2011 – PEEC’s 2nd Annual Community Fish Fry
PEEC’s EcoZone! Grand Opening
November 14th, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – The transformation is nearly complete! The old indoor pool at the Pocono Environmental Education Center has become the new EcoZone! exploration & discovery room. The EcoZone! will be open to the public for the first time November 20, 2011 from 12:00 to 3:00pm. Everyone is welcome to visit & explore during the grand opening.
Visitors will enter the EcoZone! next to a life-sized Bald Eagle’s nest & a giant eagle mural by Ken Batelman. The mural was supported in part by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. The eagle’s nest will show visitors what an actual eagle nest looks like and students will be able to climb into the nest to experience the world of the eaglets (baby eagles) after they hatch.
Another prominent exhibit is the bat cave. Visitors to the bat cave will crawl through the serpentine tunnel and enter the “decorated” big room. The big room is decorated with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and rimstone. Visitors can explore the cave exhibit and learn about cave ecology and troglobites (cave dwelling animals).
The black bear skeleton display is a “puzzle”. Kids and adults will be able to see and understand the difference between bear & human skeletons as they manipulate the 75 magnetized bones to complete the skeleton of what was a 450 pound bear. Visitors will be able to examine the large teeth and claws, but the relatively small skull and students will be able to see how the shape of the skeleton helps bears to adapt & survive in their environment.
Other exhibits include a beaver lodge, an aquaponics display, a fossil pit, a recycling display, a watershed display, “The Lab”, a “Skins & Skulls” display, and the “Critter Corner”.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC has Bats in the Belfry … I Mean the EcoZone
October 31st, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – Stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and rimstone?? These are all features of the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) new bat cave. The bat cave is only one of the exhibits at the soon-to-open EcoZone! – a hands-on discovery room where visitors can experience & learn about the natural world.
Visitors to the bat cave will crawl through the serpentine tunnel and enter the “decorated” big room. The big room is decorated with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and rimstone. Visitors can explore the cave exhibit and learn about cave ecology and troglobites (cave dwelling animals).
The EcoZone, with its varied display exhibits, will officially open Sunday, November 20, 2011. Everyone is welcome to explore the EcoZone from 12 to 3pm.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8 along Route 209, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Dime Bank Makes Generous Donation
October 25th, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) would like to thank The Dime Bank for its generous donation through the Pennsylvania Education Improvement Tax Credit program. The $5,000 donation will be used for the “Take a PEEC at Environmental Education” programs, which will help local students from schools in Pike & Monroe County make the connection between the classroom & nature.
Through this donation, students from the East Stroudsburg Area School District & the Delaware Valley School Districts will be able to visit PEEC for environmental education field trips. A new Discovery Room featuring items native to the surrounding region will be opening in November. This interactive display will feature snakes, an eagle’s nest, a bat cave, a beaver lodge and a bear skeleton, to name a few of the exhibits. “Due to shrinking school budgets, generous donors like The Dime Bank give students the opportunity for educational field trips, which might not otherwise be available,” noted PEEC’s Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
The Dime Bank is your total financial partner serving Wayne and Pike counties in Pennsylvania and Sullivan County, New York. The Bank offers a full array of financial services ranging from traditional products to electronic banking and trust and investment services. For more information on The Dime Bank, visit www.thedimebank.com. Community banking yields community benefits.
Pictured left to right: The Dime Bank Dingmans Ferry Office Manager Amy Burke; PEEC Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky; The Dime Bank Vice President Commercial Loan Officer Marcia Guberman.
The Eagle has Landed… at PEEC
October 11th, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – A life-sized Bald Eagle’s nest is one of the new exhibits located in The Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) soon to open EcoZone! The Bald Eagle’s nest is located next to a giant eagle mural by Ken Batelman. The mural was supported in part by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. The nest will show visitors what an actual eagle nest looks like. Students will even be able to climb into the nest to experience the world of the eaglets (baby eagles) after they hatch.
The nests of the Bald Eagle are typically 5 feet in diameter, though some can reach 9 feet. The nests can be 12 feet deep & weigh up to 2 tons. Even though PEEC’s nest seems extremely large, it is actually very close in size to one that would be found in nature. Since most people never get to see a real Bald Eagle’s nest, PEEC added one to the EcoZone! as a component of the discovery room.
The EcoZone will officially open on Sunday, November 20, 2011 and all are welcome to explore its wonders from 12 to 3pm.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
New Lodging in PEEC EcoZone
October 3rd, 2011
The beavers have completed work on the beaver lodge in the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) new EcoZone Discovery Room. Three thousand two hundred seventy three sticks were individually gnawed as raw material and 2.29 tons of pond muck were tail slapped in the creation of the lodge in the deep end of the old indoor pool. The beavers were paid at full prevailing wage in white birch trees and high bush blueberries and had full dental benefits.
Although the beavers refused to be interviewed on the record, one was heard to say, “Yeah, it was a “dam” solid project, but why anyone would want one of these lodges inside was a mystery to us. With these environmental types, you never know what drives them.” The beavers’ safety record was admirable, but the legs of several picnic tables were slightly chewed up one evening after a rousing rendition of “I’m a beaver and I’m OK.”
The EcoZone will officially open on Sunday November 20, 2011 and all are welcome to explore its wonders from 12 to 3pm.
Bear Bones in the EcoZone?
September 26th, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – The bear skull is connected to the first vertebra (the Atlas). The Atlas is connected to the Axis, and the Axis is connected to the…you get the picture. In the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) new EcoZone, you will get to do the assembly.
The black bear skeleton is a “puzzle” that visitors to the nearly completed EcoZone will be able to put together. Kids and adults will be able to see and understand the difference between bear & human skeletons as they manipulate the 75 magnetized bones to complete the skeleton of what was a 450 pound bear.
Visitors will be able to examine the large teeth and claws, but the relatively small skull. Students will be able to see how the shape of the skeleton helps bears to adapt & survive in their environment.
Please note that no bears where harmed in the creation of this exhibit; this bear died of natural causes in the wild. After staff& volunteers transferred the bear to PEEC over a year ago, the bones were cleaned by dermestid beetles, then sealed & preserved. Now, the bones are being arranged into a hands-on exhibit.
You can see photos of the work in progress on PEEC’s Facebook page or visit PEEC to hike our trails and check on the EcoZone! The windows into the room have been uncovered & visitors to PEEC can observe the daily progress. The grand opening of the EcoZone is planned for late November 2011.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC Ecozone Opening Soon!
September 13th, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – Did you ever want to go inside a Beaver Lodge or a Bat Cave? The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is in the process of transforming its indoor pool into an EcoZone! – a hands-on, discovery room. The new interactive exhibit room at PEEC will open this November and will include a bat cave, beaver lodge, eagle’s nest, fossil pit, and much more. The displays will be hands-on and interactive; visitors will crawl through the bat cave, walk through the beaver lodge, and dig for fossils.
PEEC’s old indoor pool has been closed for some time due to the high cost of maintenance & repairs. In an effort to make use of the large space in a way that would complement PEEC’s mission, Executive Director Jeff Rosalsky visualized a room where the thousands of children that visit PEEC each year could learn about nature in a fun, hands-on setting. Through the efforts of PEEC staff & volunteers, and with many generous donations of funds, time, and materials, the room is nearing completion.
You can see photos of the work in progress on PEEC’s Facebook page or visit PEEC to hike our trails and check on the EcoZone! The windows into the room have been uncovered & visitors to PEEC can observe the daily progress.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Autumn Bird Migration Weekend at PEEC
August 29th, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – As the autumn days become shorter & cooler, many birds will begin heading south for the winter. Birders of all levels, novice to experienced, can spend the weekend of September 23-25 at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in search of warblers, raptors, and other migrating birds.
The weekend will begin on Friday evening, September 23 & continue through Sunday afternoon, September 25. Participants will enjoy day trips to Sunrise Mountain & other migration hotspots, guided bird walks, live raptor presentations, and more.
To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. The cost of the weekend is $195, which includes 2 nights of lodging & 6 meals. Commuter & day rates are also available. Please visit www.peec.org/events-date for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Fall Harvest Festival at PEEC
August 15th, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – Celebrate Autumn at the Pocono Environmental Education Center’s (PEEC’s) “Harvest Festival” on Saturday, September 10, 2011 from 10:00am to 4:00pm. This exciting new event will feature old-time activities and seasonal exhibits, including candle making, arts & crafts, and food preservation.
This great event will also include interpretive hikes, hands-on learning stations, conservation exhibits, live music, local food, beverages, and a live animal presentation by the Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Pre-registration is not required & the admission is only $5 per car, so stop by with your family and friends to enjoy a beautiful fall day.
PEEC’s mission is to enhance environmental awareness, knowledge and appreciation through hands-on experience in a natural outdoor classroom. It provides unique, year-round, environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. PEEC is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s 2nd Annual Flip Flop Fundraiser
August 2nd, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will host an informally formal fundraiser on Saturday, August 27 beginning at 7:00pm. The theme will be “Flip Flop Fundraiser” and the event will be hosted in PEEC’s international award-winning “green” dining hall.
As a fun twist to the fundraiser, the event is informally formal; gowns, jeans, tees, and ties are all welcome, as are, of course, flip flops. Delicious finger foods & drinks, including local Shawnee Craft Beer, will be served and the event will include a silent auction. Local art & PEEC staff-led adventures will be included in the auction – canoeing, birding, low ropes course excursions, and more. The price will be $75 per person with the proceeds to benefit PEEC. Reservations made after August 15 will be $85 per person.
For reservations, please call PEEC at 570-828-2319 or email peec@peec.org. Pre-payment is requested.
PEEC’s mission is to enhance environmental awareness, knowledge and appreciation through hands-on experience in a natural outdoor classroom. It provides unique, year-round, environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. PEEC is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
New Rain Garden at PEEC
July 12th, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA – The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) has begun work on a new rain garden! The rain garden, located in front of the campus dining hall, is designed to beautify PEEC’s campus and to mitigate the effects of storm water runoff. The rain garden plants will help absorb the extra rain that collects naturally in this area. This rain garden project was made possible by a generous grant from the PSEG Services Corporation. PSEG’s Environmental Education Grant Program was developed in 1991 and has awarded grants for many environmental projects throughout PA and NJ.
The rain garden project is a collaborative project involving many partners. The PA Department of Environmental Protection was the impetus for the project when their Growing Green Grant funded a campus wide system to naturally treat storm water and run-off. The National Park Foundation and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center provided seed funding and trained PEEC staff in the importance of native plants and rain gardens. A local Scout Reach troop from Middle Smithfield that has been learning about gardening and native plants will assist with the rain garden plantings. The next planting event will take place this summer.
The rain garden will serve as a demonstration garden for all of PEEC’s annual visitors. Rain gardens are a wonderful way to protect our water resources. They help recharge the groundwater supply while keeping pollution out of our lakes, rivers and waterways. Rain gardens keep excess water in the area in which it belongs and provides a natural habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. The creation of this new rain garden will continue PEEC’s mission of advancing environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park.
PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Drum Making Workshops at PEEC
July 5th, 2011
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be offering a “Drum Making Workshop” the weekend of July 15-July 17, 2011 and a “Full Moon Drumming Workshop” on Saturday, August 13, 2011. Master Drummer, Maxwell Kofi Donkor will lead both of these exciting new programs.
The “Drum Making Workshop” weekend will begin Friday, July 15 with registration between 3:00 & 6:00pm and will continue through Sunday afternoon, July 17. Donkor will lead participants through the steps of making their own drums, from selecting the natural materials and soaking the skins to heading the shells. Enjoy introductory drumming lessons, sunrise drumming, historical drumming culture, & more. No experience necessary. Registration is $325 and this amazing weekend includes 2 nights of lodging & 6 delicious meals.
Master Drummer Donkor will return to PEEC in August for the “Full Moon Drumming Workshop”. This event will be held Saturday, August 13 from 7:00-10:00pm. Enjoy an introductory lesson and a drumming circle under the full moon. The peaceful evening teaches the basics of drumming and its rich cultural heritage. No experience necessary. Registration is $30 for adults & $15 for children, so call to reserve a drum!
To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319 with your information. Please visit www.peec.org/events-date for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s 10th Annual Golf Outing
June 29, 2011
Lehman Township, Dingmans Ferry, PA. The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 10th Annual Golf Outing on Tuesday, July 19th at the historic Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort. Proceeds from the golf outing will benefit PEEC’s environmental education programs.
Check-in and continental breakfast will be 8:30am. At 9:00am, a shotgun start will begin the scramble format golf outing. After a great morning of golf, participants will enjoy a lunch buffet at the Shawnee Inn. Winners will be announced & prizes will be awarded during the luncheon.
To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319 with your information. On-line registration is also available. Registration is $125 per golfer before July 15, 2011. On-site registration July 19 will be $140.00 per golfer. Please visit the PEEC Events Page for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs.
Sponsorships for the golf outing are also available for individuals or businesses. There are 4 levels of sponsorship & all sponsors are invited to provide promotional items for distribution at the event. For further information regarding golf outing sponsorship, please contact PEEC at 570-828-2319 or at www.peec.org.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. PEEC is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Teen Leadership Program at PEEC
June 24, 2011
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) has been working with a new group -the Teen Leaders Program, created through a generous community grant from Best Buy Children’s Foundation. This program provides an opportunity for youth to develop their leadership skills and give back to the community. The teen leaders have met several times this spring. At their recent meeting on Saturday, June 11, the participants discussed their community service projects, volunteered in the campus garden, and enjoyed a canoe paddle on Pickerel Pond.
Many of the teen leaders have chosen to work on projects that will be displayed in PEEC’s EcoZone. The EcoZone is a new discovery room that has been built in PEEC’s old swimming pool area. The room boasts a large cave and beaver lodge to explore, as well as a black bear skeleton, fossil pit, and much more. The teen leaders will work together to create a “pollinator” display that shows the specific flowers and plants to which different pollinators are attracted. A second display will focus on the dark, dirty world of decomposition and will showcase food items as they move through the stages of decay. Another project will involve the creation of a life size eagle’s nest.
The Teen Leaders Program is designed to support the students and provide opportunities for their personal growth. At the meeting on Saturday, June 18, the teen leaders joined forces with PEEC’s summer camp staff to enjoy some team building opportunities. Everyone involved is having a wonderful time with this new program, which is made possible with the Best Buy grant. PEEC has enjoyed a positive relationship with Best Buy over the years. The Stroudsburg Best Buy employees have dedicated themselves to volunteering at a variety of PEEC programming and the Teen Leaders Program continues this successful partnership.
Macro Photography Workshop at PEEC
June 13, 2011
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be offering an “Introduction to Macro Photography” workshop on Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 9:00am to 4:00pm. John Jose, from Otter Creek Environmental Education Services, will lead this exciting new class. Macro photography captures the intimate details of the natural world. This is a beginner level class that teaches the basics of up-close photography. Anyone interested in macro photography is welcome.
To register, call PEEC at 570-828-2319 with your information. Registration is $65 & lunch will also be available for purchase. Please visit www.peec.org/events-date for a complete list of all upcoming PEEC events and programs. PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Unplug Your Kids for a Week this Summer; We Promise it Won’t Hurt!
June 8, 2011
“There is nothing to do.” “I’m BORED!” “Can I watch TV?” With the end of the school year fast approaching, these refrains are often used by children of all ages during the long days of summer vacation. The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) has the solution: Summer Day Camp.
Summer Day Camp begins at PEEC on June 20 & continues through August 19, 2011 from 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday. Campers ages 3-11th grade will have up to 9 weeks to explore, play, and (shhhhh) learn about the natural world in which they live. Parents can choose individual weeks or register their children for the entire summer.
Tadpoles (3-5 years) will have 5 weeks of camp available. Parents can choose from among such themes as “Fantastic Frogs”, “Bugs & Blooms”, or “Amazing Animals”. Tadpoles stay at PEEC for either half-day or whole day sessions. They will enjoy games, crafts, and outdoor discoveries. A PEEC instructor oversees a maximum of 12 children with the help of camp counselors & volunteers.
The Wet & Slimies (1st – 4th grade) can choose from camp weeks such as “Fossil Frolic”, “Water World”, and “Creepy Crawlies” during 9 sessions. They will experience crafts, games, hikes, and nature discover sessions. They will be encouraged to explore the natural world around them, while being closely supervised by our experienced camp staff.
Junior Naturalists (5th – 7th grade) will participate in creative activities that nurture their natural curiosity about the environment. Included will be the ever-popular “Camouflage!” week, as well as “Sticks, Stones, & Glue” and “Outdoor Living Skills”. During these 9 weeks, campers will participate in activities such as interpretive hikes, educational games, fun projects, and more. Junior Nats will also have a weekly late night and weeks 4 & 9 will include an overnight stay at PEEC’s tent sites.
Senior Naturalists (8th – 11th grade) will have 5 weeks of activities. Themes will include “Ultimate Adventure”, “River Rendezvous”, and “Outdoor Survival Skills”. The Senior Nats will have weeks filled with exciting adventures & challenges, plus amazing trips at the end of each camp week. The “Backpack Explorer” week will even include a 3 day, 2 night backpacking trip. PEEC also has a Volunteer Counselor Program for teens ages 15 & up. Volunteer Counselors will learn the expectations of a real job while guiding children & changing lives. Please see the PEEC website for details or call 570-828-2319.
Further information is available on-line at www.peec.org/day-camp, along with registration forms & on-line registration. For additional details or to have information mailed, call PEEC at 570-828-2319. Weekly registration fees range from $150 – $250 depending upon the camper’s age & the activities included in each week. Additional options available to parents, for an additional charge, are bagged lunches provided by PEEC & transportation from several area locations.
PEEC’s mission is to advance environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. PEEC provides unique, year-round environmental experiences to families, school groups, scouts, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The environmental center is located near mile marker 8, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, in Dingmans Ferry, PA (Lehman Township). For more information call (570) 828-2319 or visit PEEC on the web at www.peec.org.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s 2nd Annual Community Fish Fry
April 16th, 2011
Lehman Township, PA – Celebrate the opening of day of trout season with a great community event. The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will be hosting its 2nd Annual Community Fish Fry on April 16, 2011. From 4-7 pm, family & friends can meet at PEEC for a fish fry dinner. After a delicious dinner, enjoy the spring evening with a short canoe paddle on Front Pond.
During the day, while the fishermen & women are wading in the local streams searching for the first catch of the season, there is an additional program available at PEEC. Salamanders have begun stirring in the woods, so join the PEEC staff as they explore nearby breeding pools for salamander egg masses. This $5 event begins at 1:00pm on April 16. Nets & collection jars will be provided for up-close study.
At the end of the day, fishermen, friends, & family can relax and enjoy the 2nd Annual Community Fish Fry. At $10 for adults and $5 for children 10 & under, it is a great way to end the evening. Fish will be provided and canoeing on PEEC’s Front Pond is included at no extra charge.
PEEC is located on Emery Road in Dingmans Ferry – just minutes from many of the ponds & streams in Lehman Township. For more information, call 570-828-2319, email peec@peec.org, or check www.peec.org
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC enhances environmental awareness, knowledge, and appreciation through hands-on experiences in an outdoor classroom. PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
PEEC’s Earth Day Celebration 2011
April 7th, 2011
Lehman Township, PA – The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in Dingmans Ferry, PA will host its 16th Annual Earth Day Family Festival on Saturday, April 23th, 2011 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. This year’s theme is “Leave Only Footprints” & it’s a great event where you and your family can celebrate Earth Day this year.
Families can enjoy and participate in any of the day’s many activities. A great variety of activities, crafts, and projects will be available along with guided nature hikes and recycled crafts — including making jewelry out of our local Pocono Sea Glass. Home Depot will be here providing materials and assistance in making bird houses to take home.
The festival will include family-oriented hands-on learning stations, sustainable living ideas, and environmentally-friendly products, businesses, and much more. There will be Live Music bylocal area musicians Ken Galipeau & Rick Nichols; and Bob Dorough, creator of “School House Rock”.
Back by popular demand is our tie-dying station! Bring cotton shirts, socks, pillowcases, and other items to be tie-dyed with your very own colorful design. PEEC Earth Day t-shirts will also be available for purchase.
Featured events during the day-long celebration include documentary video by The Delaware Valley Eagle Alliance and a live animal presentation by The Pocono Snake and Animal Farm.
Kittatinny Canoes from Dingmans Ferry, PA will be available to introduce families to canoeing and kayaking on PEEC’s ponds.
Also, plan for summer at Earth Day! Register your child for PEEC’s Summer Day Camp and receive an Early Bird Rate. If you sign up at Earth Day, you will receive a $5 per week per child discount on summer camp.
The event lasts from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and will be held rain or shine. A barbeque lunch will be available for a nominal fee, so plan to spend the day! Visit www.peec.org, email peec@peec.org or call (570) 828-2319 for driving directions and more information.
Admission to the festival is $5 per carload for all programs and activities. All proceeds from the festival will benefit PEEC’s Youth and Family Education Programs.
The Pocono Environmental Education Center, a non-profit facility, is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, between Milford and Bushkill, PA. PEEC enhances environmental awareness, knowledge, and appreciation through hands-on experiences in an outdoor classroom.
PEEC is close to home, where learning comes naturally!
Teen Leadership Workshop at PEEC
April 5, 2011
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is pleased to announce a new, exciting program for 2011! The Teen Leaders Program, created through a generous community grant from Best Buy Children’s Foundation, provides an opportunity for youth to develop their leadership skills and give back to the community. The teen leaders will meet throughout the year to work on community service projects, recreational activities, and important life skills.
The first meeting was Saturday, April 2, on the PEEC campus. The students, ranging from 5th-11th grade, had a chance to meet each other and participate in some fun team building activities. Cooperation, communication, problem solving, and trust are important components of PEEC’s Teen Leaders program. The year ahead will provide many opportunities for the students to work together towards success –from canoeing and rock climbing to public speaking and community service.
The teen leaders also began working on their individual and group projects for PEEC’s Earth Day Festival which will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2011. There are some creative projects taking shape, including displays on decomposition, local wildlife, pollution, worms, plants, and other subjects that are near and dear to the hearts of PEEC’s teen leaders.
The Teen Leaders Program is designed to support the students and provide opportunities for their personal growth. PEEC is looking forward to all of the upcoming meetings and events with the teen leaders. In addition to the Earth Day Festival, the teen leaders will be involved with the planning of PEEC’s Harvest Festival on September 10, and the annual Halloween celebration, PEEC-a-BOO, on October 29. Everyone involved is excited to be starting this wonderful new program. PEEC has enjoyed a positive relationship with Best Buy over the years. The Stroudsburg Best Buy employees have dedicated themselves to volunteering at a variety of PEEC programming and the Teen Leaders Program continues this successful partnership.