In Downingtown, Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has released a new Spanish-Language Recreation Guide. Unveiled by DCNR’s Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, Arlene Marshall-Hockensmith and Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation, Nathan Reigner, the guide provides insight into the state’s 124 parks and 2.2 million acres of state forestlands.
The launch of the guide coincides with Hispanic Heritage Month and sprouts from DCNR’s new initiative, aptly named ‘Mosaic’. This initiative aims to create a more inclusive environment in outdoor areas all across the state. This Spanish version of the Recreation Guide has followed on the heels of its English equivalent, expanding its reach to the Spanish speaking population of Pennsylvania.
The guide is comprehensive, detailing vital information about Pennsylvania’s public lands including activities and lodging possibilities. Furthermore, it includes a highway map of the state marked with icons for easy identification of state parks and forestlands.
Through this initiative, policymakers aim not only to promote inclusivity but to boost the local outdoor recreation economy. The sector makes a significant economic contribution of $17 billion annually to Pennsylvania’s economy, endorsing up to 164,000 jobs and accounting for 2 percent of the state’s gross domestic product, according to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Nathan Reigner emphasized the need for such initiatives. Access to outdoor recreation opportunities for people from all walks of life is not only critical for the growth of this sector but it also places Pennsylvania as a strong contender in the arena of outdoor recreation destinations.
A boon for prospective visitors includes the availability of loaner equipment in many state parks, public libraries, and nonprofits who also offer various programming enhancing outdoor experiences. Businesses like outfitters offer rental equipment to people who wish to try outdoor activities but lack the necessary gear.
Marshall-Hockensmith announced, “We want every Pennsylvanian to enjoy – and feel welcome at– our incredible state parks and this new guide will allow Spanish-speaking visitors to take advantage of everything Pennsylvania’s great outdoors have to offer.”
Parks such as the Marsh Creek State Park are already offering programs throughout the year to engage new and diverse audiences. The pool and boating area in the park are ADA accessible along with an ADA accessible boat launch on the west side of the Marsh Creek Lake. There are plans to release a Spanish-language individual park guide and map for the Marsh Creek state park by 2025 as part of the steps to make Park Road Trail ADA accessible.
DCNR has also made strides to maintain the state’s public resources for the benefit of all citizens and strives to make sure the lands they manage are accessible to everyone. In addition to providing inclusive and equitable programs and services, they work to recruit and retain a diverse workforce. They also support hundreds of outdoor-related projects in communities each year, having invested $1.2 billion in 8,800 projects across the state since 1995.
In summary, the new Spanish-Language Recreation Guide is part of Pennsylvania’s ongoing efforts to become more inclusive, providing more information and options for Spanish-speaking Pennsylvanians as they explore the state’s beautiful landscapes and outdoor spaces.
