New forester, Ference, joins local staff

A new forester has been appointed to the Elk State Forest District in Emporium. Robert Ference will take over responsibilities of maintaining the southern end of Ridge Road and Montour Road area.

He will plant trees, collect seeds, as well as providing educational programs and ecological services.

The West Newton native holds a bachelors degree in environmental science from the University of Pittsburgh and an associate degree in forest technology from Penn State. He previous worked as field technician with the Clear Creek State Forest.

"Mr. Ference brings his passion for learning about our valuable natural resources to the area and he looks forward to meeting and working within the Elk State Forest," said District Forester Jeanne Wambaugh