CAMP HILL, PA — The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF) has announced the addition of two new interns to its team. Martha Moon and Garrett Leonard will be working on projects aimed at advancing the state’s Conservation Heritage Project, promoting Healthy Lands Week, and raising awareness about volunteer opportunities and conservation initiatives in Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests.
Moon, a recent graduate from Shippensburg University with a Master’s in Applied History focusing on Museum Studies, joins PPFF as an intern for the Pennsylvania Conservation Heritage project. She brings with her a deep-seated passion for conservation. Her work will begin with a focus on preserving the untold stories of Pennsylvania’s Civilian Conservation Corps camps during the 1930s, particularly their role in black history, and highlighting the diversity of today’s conservation leaders.
“I have had a passion for the outdoors and environmental conservation my whole life,” Moon said. “As I continue to live and raise my daughter in PA, I want to create personal and career bonds that will strengthen my connection to Penn’s Woods.” Moon hopes to use her skills in historical research, environmental conservation, and outdoor recreation to share these stories and further the environmental conservation movement in Pennsylvania.
Leonard, currently pursuing his degree in Geoenvironmental Science at Shippensburg University, is the second intern to join the PPFF team. With an associate degree in environmental science from Bucks County Community College under his belt, he brings practical experience in trail restoration, pollinator habitat restoration, and conservation efforts.
“I’m looking forward to working with PPFF as I find the work they’ve done here is incredibly inspiring,” Leonard said. “I look forward to helping in any way possible in the goal of sustaining the beauty of our parks.”
Leonard will be involved in advancing the goals of Healthy Lands Week, a statewide initiative aimed at bolstering volunteer activities and raising awareness about the stewardship of cultural and natural resources. He will also contribute to the Pennsylvania Conservation Heritage project through writing and research.
Marci Mowery, President of the Foundation, expressed her excitement about the new additions. “Hosting interns is an important way that PPFF can help mentor future conservation leaders,” she said. “We look forward to working with and learning from this next generation of conservationists.”
As PPFF continues its work to preserve and promote Pennsylvania’s natural beauty, it invites residents with conservation stories or knowledge of deserving conservationists to share their insights by emailing intern@paparksandforests.org. For more information on the history of PA Conservation, please PAConservationHeritage.org, and to learn more or get involved with Healthy Lands Week, visit healthylandsweek.org.
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