AUSTIN — With warmer weather finally pushing the cold out, it will soon be time to get outdoors, smell the flowers and watch the birds at Sinnemahoning State Park in the Austin area.
Park employee Lisa Rotello said the park recently welcomed outdoorsmen for the spring gobbler and trout fishing seasons, which recently opened.
“We got quite a few people in the campground this past weekend because it was spring gobbler season, and fishing,” Rotello said. “We’re getting back into the swing.”
For her part, Kim Lott, environmental education specialist at the park, reported activities will kick off this weekend during the Eagles Nest Watch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with participants meeting at the Wildlife Viewing Area.
Lott said participants will be able to view the live nest action of baby eagles through a high-powered scope with assistance provided by park staff and volunteers. The event is free of charge.
Also on the agenda from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Sunday will be a Spring Wildflower Walk in the park. Lott said visitors can walk with park staff to look for spring wildflowers as well as learn about the “native beauties.” She did note that the walk covers one to two miles on uneven terrain and some off-trail walking may be required. The event is free and participants will meet at the Wildlife Center.
Another free activity from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday will be the Bluebird Trail volunteer training event. Lott said participants can help bluebirds and other songbirds by assisting with the cavity-nesting bird trail. During the event, participants will learn how to identify nests and nestlings and how to safely check and clean nest boxes. Pre-registration is requested for the Wildlife Center Classroom session.
On a final note, Lott said seats are still available for the Birds and Brunch Specialty Pontoon Tour on May 12, Mother’s Day. The event will include a relaxing morning of bird-watching for participants while they enjoy a catered brunch on the pontoon boat. The cost $20 per person and pre-registration and pre-payment are due by May 7.
To pre-register for a program, or for more information, visit the online DCNR Calendar of Events at athttp://events.dcnr.pa.gov. For assistance with online registration, contact the park office at (814)647-8401 and dial 0 for the front desk.
