#tioga state forest

[zoeflake]

The forest had a cold-blue hue before the sun crested the mountain top, but then a (slightly) warm-looking glow instantly afterward. Interesting, how different the scene, within just a few moments.

[greenridge823]

Another Hike In The Tioga State Forest Near Arnot In Tioga County

I slept well after my busy Saturday. I awoke early  at my hotel in Mansfield in Tioga County. It was overcast and cool but I still planned to  hike in the Tioga State Forest again. I had a quick cup of coffee, checked out of my hotel and was on the road by 6:15 a.m. I drove to the small  village of Arnot and again parked just outside of the town along the Arnot Road. I  walked along  Arnot road…

[rogersip]

Central PA's Most Scenic Hiking Trails - Find Your Next Adventure Now

Central Pennsylvania is known for its scenic beauty and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. One of the best ways to experience the region's natural beauty is by exploring its numerous hiking trails. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there's something for everyone in Central PA's most scenic hiking trails.

Here are some of the top hiking trails in Central Pennsylvania that offer breathtaking views, challenging terrain, and unforgettable experiences.

The Mid State Trail

The Mid State Trail is a 327-mile trail that runs through the heart of Pennsylvania from the Maryland border to the New York border. The trail passes through some of the most scenic areas in the state, including the Allegheny Mountains, the Bald Eagle Valley, and the Susquehanna River Valley.

Hiking the entire Mid State Trail is a challenge that only a few accomplished hikers have completed. But you can still enjoy sections of the trail that offer stunning views and diverse terrain. Some popular sections of the Mid State Trail include the Seven Mountains, the Quehanna Wild Area, and the Tioga State Forest.

The Thousand Steps Trail

The Thousand Steps Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Huntingdon County, PA. The trail is known for its challenging terrain and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is named for the thousand stone steps that hikers must climb to reach the top of the mountain.

The Thousand Steps Trail is a great workout for hikers looking for a challenging hike. The trail is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are worth the effort. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Juniata River Valley and the surrounding mountains.

The Loyalsock Trail

The Loyalsock Trail is a 59-mile trail that runs through the Loyalsock State Forest in Sullivan and Lycoming counties. The trail is known for its rugged terrain and stunning scenery, including waterfalls, rocky outcroppings, and dense forests.

The Loyalsock Trail offers a challenging hiking experience for seasoned hikers. The trail is not well-marked, so hikers should be prepared with a map and compass. But for those who are up for the challenge, the Loyalsock Trail offers some of the most scenic views in Central Pennsylvania.

The Pine Creek Rail Trail

The Pine Creek Rail Trail is a 62-mile trail that runs through the Pine Creek Gorge in Tioga and Lycoming counties. The trail follows the path of the former Jersey Shore, Pine Creek, and Buffalo Railway, which operated from 1883 to 1988.

The Pine Creek Rail Trail is a popular hiking and biking trail that offers stunning views of the Pine Creek Gorge. Hikers can enjoy the beauty of the canyon and the surrounding forests, as well as the wildlife that calls the area home.

The Standing Stone Trail

The Standing Stone Trail is a 84-mile trail that runs from Cowans Gap State Park to the Rothrock State Forest. The trail passes through some of the most scenic areas in Central Pennsylvania, including the Tuscarora and Bald Eagle Mountains.

The Standing Stone Trail offers a variety of terrain, including rocky ridges, deep valleys, and mountain streams. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys.

The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,190-mile trail that runs from Georgia to Maine. The trail passes through 14 states, including Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania section of the trail is known for its rocky terrain and stunning views.

Hiking the entire Appalachian Trail is a challenge that few hikers can accomplish. But you can still enjoy sections of the trail that offer stunning views and diverse terrain.

In conclusion, Central Pennsylvania boasts an abundance of stunning hiking trails that are sure to satisfy the most avid outdoor enthusiasts. From the challenging mountain paths of the Appalachian Trail to the tranquil forests of Bald Eagle State Park, the region offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a day hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, you'll find it here. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next hiking excursion and explore the natural beauty of Central PA today! And for more travel tips and adventure ideas, check out Online World News.

[anncorn8899]

A Day Trip to Yosemite from Merced, California: What to See and Do.

Nestled in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite National Park stands as a testament to the state's natural beauty and diversity. For visitors based in Merced, a day trip to Yosemite offers a breathtaking escape into one of the most iconic national parks in the United States. Here’s how to make the most of your journey, exploring the wonders Yosemite has to offer.

Getting There

Merced serves as an ideal starting point for a day trip to Yosemite, located approximately 80 miles away from the park's entrance. The most direct route from Merced to Yosemite National Park is via CA-140 E, which takes you through picturesque landscapes and small towns before entering the park at its Arch Rock Entrance.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Arriving in Yosemite Valley: As you enter Yosemite via CA-140, the landscape transforms dramatically. Towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests greet you as you descend into Yosemite Valley. Begin your exploration with a stop at Tunnel View, one of the most famous scenic viewpoints in the park. From here, you can take in panoramic views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.

Exploring Yosemite Village: Next, head to Yosemite Village, the hub of activity in the valley. Here, you can visit the Yosemite Museum, which offers insights into the park's natural and cultural history. Grab a bite to eat at one of the village's cafes or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Merced River.

Midday: Outdoor Adventures

Hiking Opportunities: Yosemite is renowned for its hiking trails, catering to all skill levels. For a moderate hike with stunning views, consider the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, which takes you to the base of North America's tallest waterfall. If you're up for a challenge, embark on the Mist Trail, leading to Vernal and Nevada Falls, offering spectacular vistas along the way.

Photography and Sightseeing: Photographers will find endless opportunities throughout the park, capturing iconic landmarks such as Half Dome and the serene Mirror Lake. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot deer, black bears, or even elusive mountain lions in their natural habitat.

Afternoon: Iconic Sights and Relaxation

Visit Glacier Point: In the afternoon, make your way to Glacier Point, accessible via a scenic drive or shuttle bus. This vantage point offers unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley, including Yosemite Falls and the high country. It's an excellent spot for photography or simply soaking in the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada.

Picnic at Sentinel Meadow: For a relaxing break, consider picnicking at Sentinel Meadow near Yosemite Village. Surrounded by towering pines and with views of Yosemite Falls, it's a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

Evening: Sunset and Departure

Sunset at Olmsted Point: As the day draws to a close, head towards Olmsted Point along Tioga Road (seasonally accessible) for a memorable sunset experience. This viewpoint offers a unique perspective of the park's high country, with Half Dome and Clouds Rest silhouetted against the evening sky.

Return to Merced: After witnessing Yosemite's natural spectacle, begin your journey back to Merced, reminiscing about the day's highlights and planning your next adventure in this stunning national park.

Tips for Your Trip

Timing: Start early to make the most of your day in Yosemite, avoiding midday crowds and maximizing your time for exploration.

Weather: Check weather conditions and pack accordingly, as temperatures can vary significantly within the park.

Permits and Reservations: Some hikes and activities may require permits or reservations, especially during peak seasons. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth experience.

Conclusion

A day trip from Merced to Yosemite National Park promises an unforgettable adventure amidst some of California's most awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you're marveling at iconic waterfalls, hiking through ancient forests, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, Yosemite offers something for every visitor. Embrace the beauty and grandeur of this natural wonderland, and take home memories that will last a lifetime.

[nylandquest]

16 acres timberland with camper bordering West Hill State Forest in Hornby NY. Escape to this very private piece of timberland with a year-round stream situated just north of the City of Corning. A gated drive leads off the road to an established campsite with a gravel pad and an existing 27 ft. Forest River Salem Camper overlooking the stream. Cross the creek and hike through the property using existing trails. The property slopes gently to the back of the property extending more than 500 yards from the road and consisting entirely of timberland. The forest consists primarily of hardwoods with some areas of pine and hemlock. A great opportunity to own a turn-key hunting and recreational property bordering state land. Several existing metal tree stands have been strategically placed and successfully hunted over the last decade by the current owner and will convey with the property. Step across the road and enter West Hill State Forest, an additional 887 acres of land to hunt, hike, and explore. Endless recreational opportunities in the area with several state forests and thousands of acres of public land nearby. Quality fishing in the region is provided by Meads Creek, Tioga River, Cohocton River, and Chemung River all located within 5 miles of the property. $54,900. Contact Dan Heisey 607-661-0029 for more information. @nylandquest #hunting #camper #camping #private #trails #bordersstateforest #creek #hornbyny #steubencountyny #westernny https://www.instagram.com/p/CrTYoMTuFau/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[shirleycaporaletti]

Shirley Caporaletti: Yosemite National Park, California

Shirley Caporaletti: Meander through wildflower-strewn meadows in valleys carved by rivers and glaciers, the hard, endless work of which makes everything look simply colossal. Here in Yosemite National Park, thunderous waterfalls tumble over sheer cliffs, ant-sized climbers scale the enormous granite domes of El Cap and Half Dome, and hikers walk beneath ancient groves of giant sequoias, the planet's biggest trees. Even the subalpine meadows of Tuolumne are magnificently vast. For the most sublime views, perch at Glacier Point on a full-moon night or drive the high country's dizzying Tioga Road in summer.

If this is your first time to Yosemite, we can help you narrow it down with a greatest-hits of one of the greatest parks in the United States. From your approach to the park by car to when your head hits the pillow at one of several lodges and campgrounds on site, and all the adventures in between, here's what to do on your first trip to Yosemite.

On the thrilling, winding drive into Yosemite Valley, you'll be impressed by the panoramic windshield views of a glacier-carved canyon, thickly forested, with grassy meadows beside a bubbling river and granite monoliths scraping the sky. Stop at Tunnel View for a postcard-perfect shot of the valley floor, snaggletoothed Half Dome, stalwart El Capitan and cascading waterfalls rushing down sheer cliffs.

In the valley, park your car for the day and ride the free visitor shuttle buses to avoid traffic jams. Be sure to arrive early, as parking lots may fill up as soon as 9am. From convenient shuttle stops, it's an easy stroll right up to the base of double-tiered Yosemite Falls, the continent's highest at over 2400ft, or pulse-pounding Bridalveil Fall. If you've got more time and stamina, ascend the slick granite-rock staircase on the Mist Trail, which runs so narrowly beside Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall that you're likely to get sprayed with water, above which spritely rainbows flash. Still got some energy? Get an advance permit for the all-day hike to Half Dome or sign up for a rock-climbing lesson with Yosemite Mountaineering School. Or chill on a blanket in El Capitan Meadow with a pair of binoculars and watch the pros scaling its daunting granite face, looking like ants.

After a day or two in Yosemite Valley, escape to higher – and significantly cooler – elevations. It's an hour's drive to Glacier Point, winding through pine forest to a stellar viewpoint that peers down into the valley and over the jagged, rocky rooftop of the Sierra Nevada. On the way up or down, stop off for a walk through wildflower meadows out to dizzying Taft Point or climb Sentinel Dome. Afterward, detour south to Wawona, with its open-air pioneer village, and catch a free shuttle to the majestic Mariposa Grove of giant sequoia trees, the largest living things on earth.

Summer is the most popular time to visit the park, when all roads are open and a variety of outdoor pursuits are possible. Be prepared for big crowds, elbow jostling on trails, jam-packed campgrounds and 'No Vacancy' signs at park lodgings.

 Spring is another busy time, when Yosemite Valley's waterfalls peak during April and May. Early in spring, some park roads will still be closed by snow, but valley campgrounds are open and lower-elevation hiking trails are passable.

What's better than waking up underneath pine trees as the sun breaks across Yosemite Valley? To drink coffee with this view, you'll usually need to book rooms, cabins or campsites many months in advance, as park lodgings are usually in high demand – especially for summer vacations. Visit here https://shirleycaporaletti.blogspot.com/

https://www.travelleaders.com/

[lowe67winstead-blog]

Oh yea the Wonders You'll Find If you Visit Yosemite

Everyone really likes touring the beautiful spots that this planet has to offer. Some involving the more popular places include: the Grand Gosier, Niagara Falls, and anywhere along the coast. Nevertheless, nothing of these places could match the plethora of amazing normal sights that you're going to witness at Yosemite National Park. Generally there is so much organic beauty in this park the fact that one could invest several weeks trying to see it all, much less consider any time to savor the idea. What are some associated with the best features of Yosemite and what should an individual see on your vacation? Let's take the glance at some of just what Yosemite has to provide. Probably the most well-known feature of Yosemite State Park is Yosemite Vale. You've probably observed that on tv many times such as well as in shows. Its exclusive rock formations and unbelievable waterfalls allow it to be a one-of-a-kind place to help watch on your trip to Yosemite. This will likely almost certainly be the most memorable feature of your total journey and presents a good amount of photography opps throughout. No visit to Yosemite is finished with out witnessing this amazing magnificence. Another amazing place within Yosemite is this Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. This can be one regarding the most unbelievable parts of the particular park while you will watch this largest and oldest things anywhere on earth. Many of these forest possess been found to get over 4, 600 several years old. Likewise they structure over an individual with power. These forest are major enough to drive the car through the base. Around Best time of year to visit Yosemite can go by way of one such tree from the park called the Colorado Canal Tree. You can certainly witness about 500 experienced Sequoias in this park, which often has a concentration in the species. Perhaps the one almost all beautiful point within all of Yosemite can easily be found at Glacier Point. Through high above the rest of typically the area, you can notice the Yosemite Pit, Excessive Sierra, and 1 / 2 Arched roof. If you're scared of heights, you might not want to visit this particular spot as it is definitely pretty high up there. Even so, if you're not really scared of the altitude, it can present some of the best views there are various throughout the world. This is definitely some sort of must-see part of your trip in order to Yosemite. This region is merely easily readily available for about a few weeks out regarding the calendar year in August through October. Other time, you'll have to get there by means of snowmobile or snow skis. One regarding the lesser known jewels of the Yosemite National Park is Hetch Hetchy. This hallmark of this region is the lovely reservoir that holds a lot of gallons of fresh water. This is actually the spot where much of the San Fransisco Bay's drinking water comes. Like the Yosemite Valley, this place holds some amazingly picturesque spots along the approach. It is an excellent location to get hikers at the same time. Some of the best trails you are going to find everywhere start out in Hetch Hetchy. In the event you're not necessarily really typically the hiking type, the park your car also provides some great opinions from inside your car because well. The Tioga highway is one of all those places since it is a panoramic road that winds intended for almost 40 mls through the park. Just settle-back, take it easy, enjoy the weather conditioning together with take in the amazing scenery. An individual may well not find a greater drive in often the United States. If you take pleasure in traffic jams, smog, in addition to honking horns this likely isn't the trip in your case. However, anyone else will love that. An additional cool area inside the area is the Wawona region. This is the web site of the historic Wawona hotel that was built in the nineteenth century. Typically the hotel is still available right now and is some sort of great place to be appear a relaxing ambiance. It really making you feel like you're in the "good ol' days" even though visiting the lodge. It can be situated in between a forest of jSequoias and this Yosemite Pit, showing good views from just about every perspective. You can relax outdoor with a new cocktail or quickly get to typically the snowboarding slopes in this winter. You can also find the Pioneer Yosemite History Middle here. This specific will present you along with a good look with the rich history plus tradition of the playground. See how it used to look and what exactly individuals of different ages did inside the park. Entire, Yosemite is a fantastic place to help visit for the complete friends and family. Regardless of just what type of issues you like, you will undoubtedly discover a thing that interests you best suited here in Yosemite. Try out to hit as quite a few of these stops along this way as you could.

[susquehannatu]

Pine Creek Trail Restrooms vandalized

Lots of anglers out and about. Although not directly on Pine Creek, you may still have seen something From the Tioga State Forest Face book page: The Pine Creek Trail Restrooms at Canada Run (near Pag-O-Mar) were vandalized over the weekend. Please contact the Tioga State Forest District Office with information that may lead to prosecution.

[xtruss]

Spotted Lanternfly

Spotted lanternfly, Photo: Lawrence Barringer, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, bugwood.org

Spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive pest from Asia that primarily feeds on tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) but can also feed on a wide variety of plants such as grapevine, hops, maple, walnut, fruit trees and others. This insect could impact New York's forests as well as the agricultural and tourism industries.

In the US, SLF was first discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since been found in New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and New York.

The first New York State infestation was discovered in Staten Island in August 2020. Cornell's Integrated Pest Management site for an up-to-date map of current infestation locations in the Northeast, including New York.

Confirmed Spotted Lanternfly Locations

Identification

Nymphs are black with white spots and turn red before transitioning into adults. The black nymphs can be seen as early as April and until July. Red nymphs can be seen from July until September.

Adults begin to appear in July and are approximately 1 inch long and ½ inch wide at rest, with eye-catching wings. Their forewings are grayish with black spots. The lower portions of their hindwings are red with black spots and the upper portions are dark with a white stripe.

In the fall, adults lay 1-inch-long egg masses on nearly anything from tree trunks and rocks to vehicles and firewood. They are smooth and brownish-gray with a shiny, waxy coating when first laid.

Left: SLF with closed wings. Right: Late Nymph (left) and early Nymph (right)! Photo: Lawrence Barringer, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, bugwood.org

Identification

Nymphs are black with white spots and turn red before transitioning into adults. The black nymphs can be seen as early as April and until July. Red nymphs can be seen from July until September.

Adults begin to appear in July and are approximately 1 inch long and ½ inch wide at rest, with eye-catching wings. Their forewings are grayish with black spots. The lower portions of their hindwings are red with black spots and the upper portions are dark with a white stripe.

In the fall, adults lay 1-inch-long egg masses on nearly anything from tree trunks and rocks to vehicles and firewood. They are smooth and brownish-gray with a shiny, waxy coating when first laid.

Risk to the State of New York

SLF pose a significant threat to New York's agricultural and forest health. Adults and nymphs use their sucking mouthparts to feed on the sap of more than 70 plant species. This feeding by sometimes thousands of SLF stresses plants, making them vulnerable to disease and attacks from other insects. SLF also excrete large amounts of sticky "honeydew," which attracts sooty molds that interfere with plant photosynthesis, negatively affecting the growth and fruit yield of plants. New York's annual yield of apples and grapes has a combined value of $358.4 million, which could be greatly impacted by SLF. The full extent of economic damage this insect could cause is unknown at this time.

Although native insects also secrete honeydew, the size of SLF and the large populations that congregate in an area result in large accumulations of it. The sticky mess and the swarms of insects it attracts can significantly hinder outdoor activities. In Pennsylvania, where SLF populations are the densest, people can't be outside without getting honeydew on their hair, clothes, and other belongings.

How SLF Spreads

SLF can jump and fly short distances, they spread primarily through human activity. They lay their eggs on vehicles, firewood, outdoor furniture, stone, etc. which are inadvertently transported to new areas, causing the insect to spread.

Signs of an Infestation

Sap oozing or weeping from tiny open wounds on tree trunks, which appears wet and may give off fermented odors.

One-inch-long egg masses that are brownish-gray, waxy and mud-like when new. Old egg masses are brown and scaly.

Massive honeydew build-up under plants, sometimes with black sooty mold.

Current Control Efforts in New York

DEC is working with the Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to address SLF. Since it is less expensive and easier to deal with a pest before it becomes widespread, the goal is to find and treat SLF infestations early.

Oozing wounds and adult SLF on a tree. Photo: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, bugwood.org

A plan has been developed that describes how the agencies will detect and prevent further spread of SLF in New York. Extensive trapping surveys are being conducted in high-risk areas throughout the state as well as inspections of nursery stock, stone shipments, commercial transports, etc. DEC and partner organizations encourage everyone to be on the lookout for this pest.

Exterior Quarantine

To slow the spread of SLF, AGM issued a quarantine that restricts the movement of goods brought into New York from quarantined areas in Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. The quarantine requires regulated articles, such as packing materials, landscaping and construction equipment, and nursery stock to have certificates of inspection issued from the impacted states. Inspections are being conducted across New York by AGM and its partners to check for SLF and compliance with the regulations. For more information and for a list of regulated articles, see AGM's website (leaves DEC website).

Protective Zones

In an effort to detect SLF early and respond in a timely manner, DEC has established a Protective Zone encompassing 20 counties located near the PA and NJ infestations. Protective Zones allow DEC and its partners to conduct activities such as surveying, monitoring, and management to find and prevent the spread of SLF. Protective Zones are established in the following counties: Bronx, Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Delaware, Dutchess, Greene, Kings, Nassau, Orange, Otsego, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan, Tioga, Ulster and Westchester.

SLF egg masses on a tree, Photo: Kenneth R. Law, USDA APHIS PPQ, bugwood.org

How You Can Help

Learn how to identify SLF.

Inspect outdoor items such as firewood, vehicles, and furniture for egg masses.

If you visit states with SLF, be sure to check all equipment and gear before leaving. Scrape off any egg masses. Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture webpage for more information on SLF in PA.

If you believe you've found spotted lanternfly in New York:

Take pictures of the insect, egg masses and/or infestation signs as described above (include something for scale such as a coin or ruler) and email to spottedlanternfly@agriculture.ny.gov.

OR fill out the Department of Agriculture and Markets' reporting form.

Note the location (address, intersecting roads, landmarks or GPS coordinates).

[zoeflake]

08.20.20  Did a 17 mile stretch of the rails-to-trails path along Pine Creek

[greenridge823]

A Busy Saturday. Two College Graduation Ceremonies And A Quick Hike In Tioga State Forest

It was a busy Saturday. I was up early. I was proud to attend two graduation ceremonies.   After waking up at 6 a.m. I walked 3 1/2 miles near my home in Hazle Township Luzerne County.   I  then took a nice drive to Bloomsburg under partly cloudy skies  . My  niece  Brooke graduated from  Bloomsburg University  with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Language and Speech Pathology. It was  a…

[orbemnews]

Pennsylvania to begin spraying for gypsy moths Pennsylvania to begin spraying for invasive gypsy moths Updated: 1:52 PM EDT Apr 26, 2021 Pennsylvania will begin spraying for gypsy moths in state woodlands and other areas.The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources made the announcement on Monday, April 26. Aerial spraying will get underway to combat gypsy moth outbreaks in some parts of the commonwealth.”As the insects emerge and begin feeding, the suppression effort will begin in early May,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “Our recent cool, wet springs had emerged as an enemy of the gypsy moth in years past, but populations have climbed in some areas to a point where aerial spraying is needed to keep this invasive pest in check and protect the trees from defoliation.”Pennsylvania’s Bureau of Forestry will oversee spraying of 146 sites totaling 203,569 acres. The following Pennsylvania state parks will be sprayed:Black Moshannon, Centre CountyBlue Knob, Bedford CountyChapman, Warren CountyColton Point, Tioga CountyHyner View, Clinton CountyKinzua Bridge, Warren CountyLeonard Harrison, Tioga CountyLittle Pine, Lycoming CountyPrince Gallitzin, Cambria CountyNine state forests as well as state game lands and parts of the Allegheny National Forest will also be sprayed for the invasive moth.”In Pennsylvania, these destructive, invasive insects go through cycles where outbreaks occur every five to 10 years,” said DCNR Forest Health Manager Dr. Donald Eggen. “Populations had declined in years past thanks to the gypsy moth fungus disease and wet spring weather but that no longer is the case for 2021.”Gypsy moths can entirely strip trees of their leaves, killing them and causing habitat loss. Oak trees are at particular risk. But gypsy moths will also feed on apple, sweet gum, basswood, birch, aspen and willows. The aerial spraying will be done by helicopters and planes. Where did gypsy moths come from?According to DCNR, the gypsy moth was introduced to North America in 1869 at Medford, Massachusetts, where it was used in a failed silk-production experiment. The gypsy moth first reached Pennsylvania in Luzerne County in 1932, and since then has infested every county. HARRISBURG, Pa. — Pennsylvania will begin spraying for gypsy moths in state woodlands and other areas. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources made the announcement on Monday, April 26. Aerial spraying will get underway to combat gypsy moth outbreaks in some parts of the commonwealth. “As the insects emerge and begin feeding, the suppression effort will begin in early May,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “Our recent cool, wet springs had emerged as an enemy of the gypsy moth in years past, but populations have climbed in some areas to a point where aerial spraying is needed to keep this invasive pest in check and protect the trees from defoliation.” Pennsylvania’s Bureau of Forestry will oversee spraying of 146 sites totaling 203,569 acres. The following Pennsylvania state parks will be sprayed: Black Moshannon, Centre County Blue Knob, Bedford County Chapman, Warren County Colton Point, Tioga County Hyner View, Clinton County Kinzua Bridge, Warren County Leonard Harrison, Tioga County Little Pine, Lycoming County Prince Gallitzin, Cambria County Nine state forests as well as state game lands and parts of the Allegheny National Forest will also be sprayed for the invasive moth. “In Pennsylvania, these destructive, invasive insects go through cycles where outbreaks occur every five to 10 years,” said DCNR Forest Health Manager Dr. Donald Eggen. “Populations had declined in years past thanks to the gypsy moth fungus disease and wet spring weather but that no longer is the case for 2021.” Gypsy moths can entirely strip trees of their leaves, killing them and causing habitat loss. Oak trees are at particular risk. But gypsy moths will also feed on apple, sweet gum, basswood, birch, aspen and willows. The aerial spraying will be done by helicopters and planes. Where did gypsy moths come from? According to DCNR, the gypsy moth was introduced to North America in 1869 at Medford, Massachusetts, where it was used in a failed silk-production experiment. The gypsy moth first reached Pennsylvania in Luzerne County in 1932, and since then has infested every county. Source link Orbem News #DCNR #departmentofconservationandnaturalresources #Gypsy #gypsymothspraying #gypsymothsprayinginPennsylvania #gypsymoths #gypsymothsinpennsylvania #Moths #Pa.gypsymothspraying #pa.gypsymoths #Pennsylvania #Pennsylvaniastateparkssprayedforgypsymoths #spraying

[fumpkins]

Coronavirus updates for Pennsylvania | Live Science

Last updated on May 5 at 8:25 p.m. E.T.

The state is currently reporting 50,957 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 and 3,012 deaths, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. An additional 199,925 individuals have tested negative for the virus. Pennsylvania is currently 6th in the list of states with the most US coronavirus cases.

Nursing and personal care homes now account for 65% of the total deaths attributed to COVID-19 in the state, WFMZ.com reported on Thursday (April 30).

Latest updates:

— On Tuesday (May 5) Pennsylvania saw its largest one-day death count since the pandemic began, with 554 new deaths reported. Those deaths have occurred over the past few weeks, the Department of Health said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the rate of positive tests appears to have flattened, Lancaster Online reported. In late April, roughly 21% of individuals tested for the virus were confirmed positive, up from about 10% several weeks earlier. Now, for the past 12 days, the rate of positive cases has held steady at about 19% of tested individuals.

— On Monday (May 4) Philadelphia Department of Public Health officials recommended that anybody experiencing COVID-19 symptoms be tested for the coronavirus as testing supplies have become more widely available, The Inquirer reported. Previously, testing was limited to priority populations, such as health care workers and people 50 years or older experiencing symptoms, to address a supply shortage.

— On Friday (May 1) Governor Tom Wolf announced that 24 counties in the northwest and north-central regions of the state may begin to reopen on May 8. 

The 24 counties include: Bradford, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, Union, Venango, and Warren.

“These counties were deemed ready to move to a reopening – or yellow phase – because of low per-capita case counts, the ability to conduct contact tracing and testing, and appropriate population density to contain community spread,” according to a statement on the governor’s website.

The stay-at-home order will be lifted in these regions and many business with in-person operations will be allowed to reopen — however, bars, restaurants, gyms and entertainment venues will remain closed, and gatherings of more than 25 people will remain prohibited. Read the governor’s statement for more information.

— Construction work will resume in Philadelphia on Friday (May 1) with some limitations, Mayor Jim Kenney announced Wednesday. Per a new executive order, no work can be done in occupied units and all work must be done from 7 am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, The Inquirer reported. The number of workers allowed at a site will also be limited by square footage.

Governor Wolf previously announced that construction may resume statewide on May 1, as long as workers follow new safety guidelines.

— Montgomery County officials tested 948 prison inmates for COVID-19, and found 177 (or roughly 18% of the region’s incarcerated population) tested positive, The Inquirer reported. Of those, 171 individuals exhibited no symptoms at the time of testing. This infection rate is roughly 30 times greater than what Montgomery County had identified before ramping up testing last weekend. 

— With new cases trending slowly downward, Philadelphia may have passed its peak of the epidemic, state Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley said on Monday.

“When we look back over the last couple of weeks, when we look at the cases occurring in the region, it’s looking like we are past the peak of this epidemic, that we’re now on the downslope,” Farley said. “We’re not going down quickly, but the number of daily cases that we’re getting seems to be going down on average.”

— On Monday (April 27) governor Wolf announced that businesses providing access to outdoor activities, including marinas, golf courses and privately owned campgrounds, may reopen on May 1.  Businesses and customers are required to follow best hygiene and social distancing practices (i.e., individuals must stand 6 feet apart). More info here.

— On Wednesday (April 22) governor Wolf announced a three-phase plan to begin reopening Pennsylvania businesses, with a tentative start date of May 8. Read the plan details here.

Starting May 8, the state’s north-central and northwest regions may see some social restrictions lifted and many businesses with in-person operations may reopen, the plan states. Bars, restaurants, gyms and entertainment venues will remain closed, and gatherings of more than 25 people will remain prohibited. 

— On Monday (April 20) governor Wolf extended the statewide stay-at-home order until May 8. The order was previously set to expire April 30.

“It is clear that our early and aggressive efforts to mitigate this spread of this highly contagious and deadly virus are working. While we begin to seek ways to move forward, it’s imperative that we continue to take strong precautions to protect Pennsylvanians and ensure that our health care system is not overwhelmed,” Wolf said in a statement.

— On Friday (April 17) governor Wolf said state officials are working on a plan to relax social distancing restrictions region-by-region. “Moving to reopen large swaths of our economy now is only going to prolong this crisis,” the governor said.

— As hospitalizations continue to increase, Pennsylvania Health Secretary Rachel Levine said on Thursday (April 16) that the state’s testing capabilities are insufficient, and that the number of tests conducted has declined in recent days, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. State officials have had “great difficulty” accessing the reagents and chemicals needed to conduct the tests, Levine said.

— On Wednesday (April 15) the Pennsylvania state legislature, which has a Republican majority, passed a bill that seeks to broaden governor Wolf’s definition of what constitutes an essential business. If signed by the governor, the bill will allow construction workers, among others, to return to work in the state. Health officials have warned the bill puts more lives at risk, and governor Wolf has said he does not support it.

— On Monday (April 13) governor Wolf addressed Pennsylvanians to say that the epidemic curve is beginning to flatten in the state, but that the state is still in “stage one” of dealing with the crisis, which entails social distancing to buy the health care system time to meet the demands of the pandemic. 

Beginning stage two — the slow transition to reopening the state economy — is contingent upon “better testing” that can tell the entire population when they are sick, and new antibody tests to reveal if someone is immune to the virus, the governor said. (Read his full address here).

— On Monday (April 13) a 67-year-old Philadelphia man became the first state penitentiary inmate to die of complications related to COVID-19, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. At least 11 inmates and 6 employees at SCI Phoenix — the Eagleville facility where the man was serving a life sentence — have tested positive for the virus.

— On Friday (April 10) Governor Tom Wolf announced a temporary program to reprieve jail sentences for non-violent inmates and incarcerated individuals most vulnerable to COVID-19. According to a statement from the governor’s office, “the Temporary Program to Reprieve Sentences of Incarceration Program only applies to state prison inmates who have been identified as being non-violent and who otherwise would be eligible for release within the next 9 months or who are considered at high risk for complications of coronavirus and are within 12 months of their release.”

As many as 1,800 inmates could be eligible for release under the program, though the actual number released will likely be much lower for logistical reasons, the statement said.

— On Friday, the governor also announced a $450 million loan package to help struggling hospitals stay solvent through the pandemic. 

— The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority (SEPTA) will no longer enforce a short-lived policy requiring all passengers to wear masks after a video showing a group of police officers dragging an unarmed man forcibly off a bus went viral on Friday.

All SEPTA trains, buses, subways and trolleys are now running on a “lifeline service schedule,” closing many stations and several routes in an effort to reduce nonessential travel. Detailed information here.

— On Thursday (April 9) governor Wolf announced that all schools will remain closed for the duration of the academic year. Read the governor’s full statement here.

— On Tuesday (April 7) governor Wolf called on Pennsylvanians to denounce and report any hate crimes seen in the state during the COVID-19 crisis. The announcement follows an FBI report warning of an uptick in hate crimes, particularly against the Asian American community, during the pandemic. 

“I am advocating for all Pennsylvanians to take a stand against anti-Asian racism and report any discrimination they see,” Wolf said in a statement. “Hate is just one more symptom of this terrible disease.”

— On Monday (April 6) governor Wolf urged Pennsylvania manufacturers that currently are producing or can pivot to producing COVID-19-related supplies to submit their information to the newly developed Pennsylvania Manufacturing Call to Action Portal.

“We cannot rely on the federal government alone to provide us with necessary equipment. We must tap our own valuable resources, including our manufacturing sector, to help our health care workers save Pennsylvanians’ lives,” Wolf said in a statement.

— On Monday (March 30) Governor Tom Wolf announced that all schools and non-essential businesses will remain closed indefinitely. Governor Wolf has also extended his “Stay at Home” order to include all 67 Pennsylvania counties, effective 8pm ET on April 1.

“This statewide stay-at-home order is not just to protect ourselves from exposure to COVID-19, but it protects those on the front lines,” state Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said in a statement. “Our doctors, nurses, police, fire, EMTs need us to do this. And the CNAs who are taking care of our family in nursing or long-term care facilities need us to do this.”

A list of allowed out-of-home activities is available here. The orders will remain in place until at least April 30.

— Earlier, on Thursday (March 19) governor Wolf ordered all business that aren’t “life-sustaining” to close by 8 p.m. Businesses considered to be life-sustaining include gas station, farms, health care facilities and transit systems, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. A list of businesses allowed to remain open can be found here.

“We strongly urge non-essential businesses across the commonwealth to do their part by temporarily closing as we work to flatten the curve and protect the health and safety of all Pennsylvanians,” Department of Community and Economic Development secretary Dennis Davin said in a statement.

— Penn State University also canceled in-person classes for the remainder of the spring semester, impacting about 76,000 students. Day care centers across the state have also been closed.

Originally published on Live Science.

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New post published on: https://livescience.tech/2020/05/06/coronavirus-updates-for-pennsylvania-live-science/

[pennsylvaniaparanormal]

Fall Brook

The thriving coal town of Fall Brook, PA, was founded in 1858 by Hon. John Magee and his son Duncan, after the two discovered semi-bituminous coal at the nearby Fall Brook Creek in Tioga County. The town was incorporated in 1864, and was a major coal mining town for almost 40 years, before it was abandoned in 1899. The Fall Brook Railroad connected to the Tioga Railroad, where it shipped the town’s coal all the way up to New York. The town boasted 1400 residents, a hotel, several boarding houses, several smith shops, and a rather large and clean mining operation. The town was subject to many fires over the years, including one that destroyed the hotel in 1899. The mines had run out of coal by the 1890s, and residents quickly abandoned the town by 1899. Today, the ghost town consists of a few foundations and a slowly dying cemetery, which are being overtaken by the creeping woods of Tioga State Forest. 

The ground of the cemetery is settling toward the Earth, and caskets are pushing up from the ground as gravestones weather and sink further in. It is a sad, decrepit display.  Visitors have reported hearing children crying and screaming from within the surrounding woods, attributing it to the smallpox outbreaks in the 1870s which stole away many of the town’s youth. People have also experienced mist, dark figures, and the feeling of being watched. The road to Fall Brook is certainly off the beaten path and difficult to navigate in the dark. If you’re going to visit, please be respectful of the decaying cemetery, and be careful not to get lost in the woods. 

[blackfawnjewelry]

🎉BIRTHDAY SALE!🎉 I’ve been waaay off the grid for the past week celebrating my birthday in Yosemite, followed by the most scenic drive through Tioga Pass to Mono Salt Lake, two natural hot springs, and an 1800’s Wild West Gold-mining Ghost Town. In just a few days we’ve traveled through multiple forests, picturesque valleys, and a desert; hiked to the tops of waterfalls and dipped our feet in ice cold rivers. From one day to the next we experienced rain, snow, summertime sunshine, and below freezing temperatures, traveling from our home at sea level in San Francisco, up to over 9,000 feet of elevation at the tops of mountains, clear across to the other side of the state near the Nevada border. It’s been a week full of new memories, to say the least. If you’ve read this far, check out my stories over the next couple days for lots more trip photos, and take 15% off EVERYTHING in the shop with code “BIRTHDAY” at checkout, now through the weekend. 🥳 Thank you for your support! ♥️Alicia (at Vernal Falls, Yosemite National Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/B3GOiqIDCp8/?igshid=1mspur5xifsyx

[dakotahiggins-blog1]

As a newish Cali resident, I figured it’d be appropriate to start exploring my own backyard a bit more. A visitor can experience the tallest living things (Redwoods), the largest living things (Giant Sequoias) AND the oldest living things (Bristlecone Pines) in just one state. Dear California, what a resume you have…

SLEEP

After about 255 miles from LA, a friend and I reached Mariposa where we rented out an airbnb for 3 nights. A lot of visitors also opt for Groveland (check out Pine Mountain Lake), and with a 25 minute drive to the Yosemite gate (when CA-120 is open) and about an hour fifteen total to Yosemite Valley, it’s just a little shorter of a drive into the park than Mariposa. The hotel sitch can be tough with only a few inside the park (Majestic Yosemite Hotel)…and with any National Park visit comes high prices.

Update: During my second trip to the park, my boyfriend and I stayed at Tenaya Lodge near the south gate. With a massive Spa Room, 2 restaurants and a beautiful spa, I can’t recommend this highly enough. Even though the hotel is located about 5 minutes from the south gate of Yosemite, it still takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get to the main valley floor near Yosemite Falls (although much closer to Glacier Point!).

HIKE

Upper Yosemite Falls – I won’t sugar coat it, UYF was a bitch of a climb but well worth the view. It’s 7 miles round trip to Yosemite Falls and 9.9 miles (3,700 ft elevation gain) to Yosemite Point. It took us 7 1/2 hours to complete with the extension to Yosemite Point. The terrain changed from sand to rock to stone steps to mud after the rain. You get super close to North America’s tallest waterfall which has TONS of water in spring and early summer. The way down was pretty rough since my legs were shaking and I wanted to be horizontal and motionless. It’s a one-and-done for me

Taft Point – A mile hike to the most unreal sunset view point! Keep in mind if you stay until sunset, you’ll have to hike a mile back to your car in the dark forest. The last 10 minutes inside said forest were pretty terrifying. Bring a flashlight, y’all. And maybe even bear spray…

Half Dome – What.A.Beast. The famous half dome is a 14-16 mile round trip with an elevation gain of almost 5,000 ft. The last 400 ft to the summit is done with cables. Many people call it quits before then, but I can’t wait to go back for this challenge. A permit is needed only for the cable portion at the very end, and a “Daily Lottery” drawing happens 48 hours in advance here.

Sentinel Dome – This is still on my wish list, but apparently it has great views of Half Dome and El Capitan + the entire valley of waterfalls

Update: On my 2nd trip to Yosemite, Alex and I hiked Mist Trail which takes you to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls making it a whopping 6.4 mile trip (when you take the John Muir trail back to the bottom…which you should). I LOVED this hike because it didn’t remind me of the Upper Yosemite switchbacks (kill me), plus it was a short hike with less elevation gain (read: EASIER lol). What made Mist Trail super memorable was the fact that the falls were FLOWING AF due to the snow melt…and we got completely drenched multiple times as the trail went right up next to them (hence the name). I brought the perfect oversized rain jacket with waterproof hiking boots, so I was good to go If you have a car, park at Half Dome Village and take a shuttle or walk ~1 mile to the trailhead from the village parking lot.

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VIEWPOINTS

After Upper Yosemite, our legs were shaky. These photo worthy spots were just what the doctor ordered on Day 2:

– Glacier Point

– Tunnel View

– Lower Yosemite Falls

-Swinging Bridge (look for the massive fallen log to the right of the bridge for a great photo towards Yosemite Falls)

-Yosemite Falls boardwalk off Southside Dr. along the valley floor. It’s on the left-hand side of the road right after Swinging Bridge picnic area.

If Tioga Pass is open, please go here for me b/c I wasn’t able to see them! Next time

– Tuoloumne Meadows

– Tenaya Lake

What to know before you go

If you want to explore Tioga Pass, wait until late May/early June to do so. The National Park Service keeps an eye on the weather and road conditions. Of course I visited less than a week before the Pass opened Ugh, I’m never early in life unless it comes to CA-120. Missed it by 6 days! We did, however, luck out and get to explore Glacier Point as it opened April 28th.

Update: My 2nd trip to Yosemite was during the tail end of April which was about 3 weeks sooner than the 1st trip taken last year in mid-May. Even though that’s roughly during the same timeframe, Glacier Point and Tioga Pass (among other roads) won’t be open for at least another 2 months (word on the street). 2019 saw massive snow fall which means it takes longer to plow and melt. Spring is still an amazing time of year to visit because the crowds are still sparse (so long as you don’t go during Spring Break!) and the weather is beautiful.

Hike early because crowds will come. We started the drive from Mariposa to the valley around 7:30am both mornings.

Bring food and water. There are a few options inside the valley, but parking is a pain and you’ll probably want a homemade PB&J when you’re atop Upper Yosemite Falls. That’s all I’m sayin.

Get gas before arriving to the gate. It was almost $5 a gallon right outside the park (saw me coming). The park is big, so if you’re an explorer and want to see a big portion of it, make sure you have at least half a tank!

Bring bug spray.

Entry fee for 1 vehicle is $35.

Know that this will be a pricey trip if staying in a hotel/airbnb. Prices go up around National Parks!

The post Yosemite National Park for First Timers appeared first on The Road Les Traveled.