Moraine State Park - From ruined to reclaimed in less than 100 years

Standing on the shore of Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park, you’d never think the area was the site of massive deforestation, coal mining and gas drilling practices that scarred the landscape for decades. But it is. In the 1800s, farmers cleared the forests and drained the swamps that would one day be Moraine State Park. Materials such as sand, gravel, limestone, clay and shale were mined and sold off. Later, oil and gas well were drilled. When they ran dray, they were abandoned.As a result of these efforts, much of the park area lost its topsoil and many streams were polluted with abandoned mine drainage. Luckily, someone came to help.Dr. Frank Preston formed the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy to purchase land to recreate the glacial landscape and preserve open space. The former Pennsylvania departments of Forests and Waters and Mines and Mineral Industries helped to reclaim the mistreated land. To look at it now, you would have never thought that this stunning 16,725-acre park was in such bad shape less than 100 years ago. On this episode, I interview Brian Flores. Brian is the Assistant Park Manager at Moraine State Park. Be sure to check out and support our sponsors for the 2024 season:Keystone Trails AssociationKTA is dedicated to providing, preserving, protecting and promoting recreational hiking trails and hiking opportunities in Pennsylvania. Use code "HELLBENDERS" to receive $5 off a yearly membership.Purple Lizard MapsPurveyors of incredibly detailed, highly curated, and waterproof trail maps of Pennsylvania's state forests. Find them at your local outfitters, bike shops, and bookstores or visit PurpleLizard.com.Pennsylvania Parks and Forests FoundationThe Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation began in 1999 as a statewide nonprofit organization to provide a voice for the Commonwealth’s 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of forest land. They rally volunteers, raise funds, and advocate for these precious lands. Join the movement at PAParksandForests.org to preserve and enjoy our outdoor treasures. Support the showVisit our website to learn more about the podcast, to purchase merch and to find out about our incredible sponsors. Follow us on Instagram and Meta to stay connected. Hosting, production and editing: Christian AlexandersenMusic: Jon SauerGraphics: Matt Davis