Times Observer Photo by Monica Keller Pictured are: Mary Kushner from state Sen. Scott Hutchinson’s office; Katie Stover, Warren County Conservation District manager; Sherry Moore, Warren County Conservation District conservation program assistant, Jean Gomory, Warren County Conservation District watershed specialist, Jim Marquis, Warren County Conservation District Hatch Run conservation assistant, Dave Trimpey, Warren County Conservation District director, and Taylor Chamberlain, state DCNR service forester, planting a tree outside of the Warren County Conservation District.

Arbor Day wouldn’t have been complete without the Warren County Conservation District planting trees outside its 4000 Conewango Ave., Warren, office.

The planting was part of a broader statewide initiative recognizing the essential work of Pennsylvania’s conservation districts. During the week of April 20-26, known as Conservation District Week, district staff across the Commonwealth are engaging in local events and outreach efforts to highlight their contributions to environmental protection and natural resource management.

The tree planting in Warren is made possible through partnerships with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and First Energy’s Green Team, which is providing four native Pennsylvania trees: two red maples, a serviceberry tree and a redbud tree.

Although the original plan included five trees, funding changes have limited the number of trees being planted this year. However, conservation district officials said they remain committed to improving the local landscape and promoting environmental awareness through the planting effort.

Warren County Conservation District staff and board members led the planting, which included Mary Kushner from state Sen. Scott Hutchinson’s office; Katie Stover, Warren County Conservation District manager; Sherry Moore, Warren County Conservation District conservation program assistant, Jean Gomory, Warren County Conservation District watershed specialist, Jim Marquis, Warren County Conservation District Hatch Run conservation assistant, Dave Trimpey, Warren County Conservation District director, and Taylor Chamberlain, state DCNR service forester, and Les Wilbur from First Energy.

“This is a chance to celebrate both Arbor Day and the incredible work that conservation districts do across Pennsylvania,” said Katie Stover, Warren County Conservation District manager. “Even with a smaller number of trees this year, it’s important to demonstrate how local partnerships and community action can make a positive impact on our environment.”

Conservation District Week is officially recognized by both the Pennsylvania House and Senate. Pennsylvania has a conservation district office in every county except Philadelphia, with local staff and volunteer directors who address environmental issues and help prevent pollution in communities across the state.

“Conservation District Week recognizes the vital efforts of conservation districts across the state in protecting our natural resources,” said Amy Brown, acting executive director of the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts. “Every day, conservation district staff work tirelessly to safeguard clean water and maintain healthy soil, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.”

For more information about the Warren County Conservation District and its programs, visit www.wcconservation.net or call 814-726-1441.