University Park   

Pennsylvania ranks number one in the United States in the number of Lyme disease cases per year, and ticks are a constant companion when spending time outdoors during the summer. However, there are many steps that you can take to protect yourself from Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. In this course, learn about tick biology, how ticks cause disease, and how to use this knowledge to prevent tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
 

Pennsylvania ranks number one in the United States in the number of Lyme disease cases per year, and ticks are a constant companion when spending time outdoors during the summer. However, there are many steps that you can take to protect yourself from Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. In this course, learn about tick biology, how ticks cause disease, and how to use this knowledge to prevent tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
 

Take a paddle on Black Moshannon Lake to discover interesting facts about the plants and animals that live here. All kayaking equipment will be provided. 

Special notes: Meet at Black Moshannon State Park at Boat Launch #1. Boat Launch #1 is located across Route 504 from the beach area. There will be a restroom nearby for use before and after the kayak trip. Kayaks include 9-foot kayaks with a 250-pound weight limit, two 10-foot kayaks with a 325-pound weight limit, and two tandem kayaks. Two adaptive kayaks are available upon request. This includes wrist and hand adaptations, a seat to help with sitting up straight, and a pedal kayak. If a participant needs an adaptive kayak, please call the Black Moshannon State Park office at 814-342-5960 before the course. Bring extra clothes in case you get wet. Participants may also want to bring sunscreen, drinks, a snack, and bug spray. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) will be provided, and they must be worn while kayaking. A DCNR Bureau of State Parks liability form will need to be signed to participate in the course. This is available for review upon request.

Mother Nature is providing increasingly variable rainfall. Delve into some hacks and ancient honored techniques that assist your watering routines. Learn how to ensure your plants stay hydrated and deliver production and beauty. Share strategies for maintaining plants’ health while away on vacation. Walk away with tips and tricks to keep your garden thriving in an unpredictable rainy season.

Roadside springs are often perceived as pristine water sources with good-tasting water. However, the use of these unregulated springs can pose unexpected health risks. Faith will share findings and insights from a statewide water quality monitoring of popular roadside springs. This course is for anyone interested in environmental and water resources, travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, and roadside spring users. Learn insights into microbial and chemical contamination in roadside springs and potential human health risks from using untreated roadside springs for drinking water.

 

Roadside springs are often perceived as pristine water sources with good-tasting water. However, the use of these unregulated springs can pose unexpected health risks. Faith will share findings and insights from a statewide water quality monitoring of popular roadside springs. This course is for anyone interested in environmental and water resources, travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, and roadside spring users. Learn insights into microbial and chemical contamination in roadside springs and potential human health risks from using untreated roadside springs for drinking water.

 

Join the OLLI Hiking Special Interest Group (SIG) on this 4-mile hike (2 miles out and 2 miles back to the vehicles) at Black Moshannon State Park. The trail meanders along the stream, where the rhododendrons may be blooming. The hike is relatively flat  with some rocks and tree roots. Following the hike, join the Hiking SIG for a picnic lunch (optional); please bring a bag lunch and drink.

Instructor:  Alice Clark, is an avid hiker and photographer, and for OLLI, she is chair of the travel committee and leader of the hiking interest group. She holds Penn State degrees in art history, photography, and history.

Special notes: Please wear appropriate hiking shoes. Participants are encouraged to tuck pants into socks (tick control) and bring hiking poles (optional), a water bottle, and a snack. Meet near the bathroom area at the beach. To caravan to the meeting location, meet at 8:30 at Lowe’s lower parking lot area. Participants are invited to bring a bag lunch and drink for picnic lunch following the hike.

This course is open to members only at no cost. Pre-registration is required.

Forget the non-native honey bee and its much-publicized challenges for a moment. Pennsylvania is home to over 400 species of wild bees who play an important role in pollination and who lead diverse and fascinating lives. Find out something about where and how they live. Learn what differentiates them from flies and wasps. Appreciate these lesser known bees who visit your garden and learn how you can help prevent their decline.
 

Come to Shaver's Creek to enjoy an evening with the hummingbirds. Learn about their natural history and how to attract them to your yard.

Special notes: Please dress for the weather. Participants will take a short walk around the grounds of Shaver’s Creek. Allow for an extra five minutes to walk from the parking lot to the Center.