READING, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has unveiled a newly renovated C.H. McConnell Environmental Education Hall at the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, signaling another achievement in the state’s ongoing investment in modernizing public parks and forests. The $436,000 project represents a vital component of Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to preserving Pennsylvania’s natural resources while ensuring accessibility, education, and community engagement for all residents.
During her visit to Berks County on February 26, DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn emphasized the broader vision behind the effort, stating, “Governor Shapiro is making strategic investments to improve our state parks and forests so they remain accessible, educational, and enjoyable for all Pennsylvanians. This renovation at Nolde Forest strengthens our commitment to conservation, education, and community engagement.”
A Commitment to Education and Accessibility
For over 50 years, Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center has served as a hub for environmental learning, hosting more than 4,000 K-12 students each year. The recently completed renovations focus on improving the center’s safety, efficiency, and inclusiveness. Updates include expanded ADA-compliant restroom facilities, upgrading electrical and plumbing systems, and improvements in water management and insulation to enhance the building’s sustainability.
“These investments have a ripple effect beyond the dollars spent,” explained Brent Erb, DCNR Environmental Education Center Manager. “By enhancing this space, we are ensuring that future generations of students, educators, and community members continue to benefit from the programs and resources Nolde Forest offers.”
The improvements bolster Nolde Forest’s ability to deliver hands-on environmental education amid its 725-acre landscape, which features 10 miles of diverse trails. Located near Reading, this unique setting provides an immersive experience in nature, offering students an opportunity to engage in conservation-oriented learning within an urban environment.
Partnerships and Broader Conservation Efforts
Established in 1966 as Pennsylvania’s first environmental education center, Nolde Forest has a long-standing tradition of community involvement. DCNR has cultivated meaningful partnerships with regional and state organizations, including the Friends of Nolde Forest, Olivet Boys & Girls Club, and local universities, to enhance programming and provide valuable resources to the public.
The center also plays an integral role in Pennsylvania’s larger conservation strategy. It is part of the Schuylkill Highlands Conservation Landscape and the Schuylkill River Greenways National and State Heritage Area. These connections underscore Nolde Forest’s importance in the state’s efforts to link natural spaces to environmental stewardship and outdoor recreation.
Building on Pennsylvania’s Conservation Investments
The Nolde Forest renovation is part of the state’s broader commitment to modernizing infrastructure in state parks and forests. Since January 2023, the Shapiro administration has completed $120 million in related projects, underscoring Pennsylvania’s strong emphasis on conservation and outdoor recreation.
Looking ahead, Governor Shapiro’s proposed 2025-26 budget includes a $5 million allocation to further expand and improve state parks across the Commonwealth. Notable plans include the establishment of Laurel Caverns in Fayette County as Pennsylvania’s 125th state park and the first subterranean park in the state’s history — a project poised to boost tourism and highlight the natural beauty and unique features of the region.
Looking Forward
The renovation of C.H. McConnell Hall reflects DCNR’s ongoing dedication to blending conservation with accessibility and education. Investments like these promote environmental stewardship and ensure that Pennsylvania’s state parks remain welcoming spaces for every generation. With its rich history and community partnerships, Nolde Forest is well-positioned to continue as a leader in hands-on environmental education and sustainable resource management.
By pushing forward with strategic investments, Pennsylvania reiterates its commitment not only to preserving natural resources but also to enriching the lives of its residents through education, recreation, and conservation. The impact of these efforts will resonate across generations, fostering a lasting legacy of stewardship and engagement.
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