Takac: Nearly $400,000 secured to boost environmental projects benefiting Centre County
Rep. Paul Takac November 20, 2024 | 4:19 PM
STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 20 – New funding of nearly $400,000 from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will support two environment-based projects benefiting Centre County and the region, state Rep. Paul Takac announced today.
Takac said the funding includes $300,000 to College Township for the development of the ClearWater Community Conservation Center.
“I am proud to support this new center which will be a cornerstone for community building and environmental stewardship,” Takac said. “It will provide new and unique opportunities for folks to engage with nature, learn about conservation, and actively participate in hands-on projects to protect our environment and the Spring Creek watershed. This long-awaited and innovative project will create jobs, attract visitors and showcase the incredible natural beauty of our region.”
The DCNR grant will support foundational work at the site, including the construction of a pedestrian walkway, access drive, parking area, ADA-accessible pathways, lighting, utilities, landscaping and other essential infrastructure improvements.
Takac said an additional, separate grant of $99,700, also to ClearWater Conservancy of Central PA, will support installation of 6 acres of riparian forest buffers in the Susquehanna River Watershed.
“Riparian buffers are a win-win for our environment because they reduce pollutants and sediment from entering our waterways while also protecting against erosion, enhancing groundwater recharge and creating habitat to support local wildlife,” Takac said. “These are the kind of forward-thinking investments that help protect our natural resources for generations to come.”
The funding comes from DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program, which supports projects to develop new parks, rehabilitate existing spaces and protect vital natural habitats. More information about the program is available here: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Communities/Grants/pages/default.aspx.
A complete list of funding is available here: https://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=8912068&DocName=2024_C2P2_Fall_Grants_List_Final.pdf.