A Message From the Manager

Partnerships make good things happen

This year has been an exceptional year to highlight local partnerships. It’s no secret that good partnerships can enhance natural resource conservation accomplishments. In Lackawanna and Wayne Counties, partnerships have been established to provide forest landowners help in managing their woodland resource. The partnership consists of diverse forest landowners, conservation districts, professional foresters, consultants, and industry representatives. 

In the fall of 2003, following a year of meetings, activities, and preparations, the Wayne Lackawanna Forest Landowners (WLFLA) was established. A strong Board of Directors led the newly formed association to grow to 75 members at year’s end.  Well-attended woodland walks, workshops, and educational presentations were conducted throughout the year. Attorney Lothar Holbert of Honesdale led the first workshop with good information regarding landowner liability issues.

Throughout the summer, outdoor activities included a forest management walk at Dave Zeiler’s tree farm, examination of wildlife food plots at Gamelands, and demonstrations of deer enclosure fencing. In November, the group took a historic look at Pennsylvania’s Forests in a program narrated by retired forester Jim Nelson.  This grassroots effort through partnerships sparked an organization that will serve to enhance forest stewardship in our area.