DCNR to Host Informational Meeting for Prospective Vendors at Catawissa Motorized Recreation Area

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania -- Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources State Forester Seth Cassell today announced the agency will hold an informational meeting for prospective vendors for the Catawissa Motorized Recreation Area.

The meeting is scheduled for 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Friday, August 23 at the Weiser State Forest District Office, 16 Weiser Lane, Aristes, PA 17820.

The meeting is open to all potential vendors that would like to work with the department and questions will be very specific to the property and the management of the recreation area's operations.

"We are eager to hear from prospective vendors and look forward to continued development of the Catawissa Motorized Recreation Area for future use," State Forester Cassell said. "Please visit the Weiser State Forest website for updates on the status of the project."

Questions about the August 23 event or the recreation area can be submitted online.

This meeting will help the department develop concessionaire agreements for the recreation area, and will serve as a precursor to a more formal vendor forum to be held at a later date.

The master plan (PDF) for the motorized recreation area developed by the Larson Design Group was completed in 2023. It's possible that not everything in the plan will be developed.

It also is anticipated that concepts of the plan will be implemented in phases.

The department has begun work at the area including:

• Installing gates at several historical access points

• Installing bridge structures at critical stream crossings

• Constructing a small parking area to provide foot access from Lofty Road

• Creating detailed implementation plans based on the master plan.
  

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has begun the design and permitting process for road access to its acid mine drainage site on the property, which will include the main public access to the recreation area.

Construction on the main entrance and access road is expected to begin in 2025.

The tract is currently open to hiking, biking, and hunting -- state forest rules and regulations apply.

The area is currently closed to motorized use as site work and development progresses.

Visit the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website for more information about Catawissa Recreation Area and check out the new calendar of events for the latest happenings on public lands.

MEDIA CONTACT: Wesley Robinson, 717-877-6315​

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