Sinnemahoning watershed meetings set

Residents of the Sinnemahoning Creek watershed will soon have an opportunity to help decide on stream restoration activities and recreation projects for years to come.

A watershed conservation plan for the Sinnemahoning and its three main tributaries, the Bennett Branch, Driftwood Branch, and First Fork, is being developed by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy through a DCNR grant. It's being guided by a steering committee comprised of about 20 local residents.

Goals include assessing the watershed's resources; promoting responsible recreation; educating and encouraging stewardship to protect and restore natural resources, and fostering an appreciation of cultural and historical legacies.

A series of public meetings will be held soon. Anglers, camp owners, canoers, hikers, or anyone else interested in the Sinnemahoning Creek watershed are welcome.

Meetings are scheduled from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. as follows:

--Tuesday, Oct. 16, at the Sinnemahoning Sportsmen's Club;

--Wednesday, Oct. 17, at the DCNR District Office along Route 155 in Emporium;

--Thursday, Oct. 18, at St. Joseph Church Parish Hall, Force;

--Thursday, Oct. 25, at the Austin Firehall.

Attendees will be asked for their views on perceived watershed threats and problems. They'll also be asked to identify potential stream work or recreational projects related to the watershed's resources.

Once the conservation plan is completed, local municipalities and non-profit groups will be able to apply for grants to implement the projects.