The Elk Country Visitor Center’s dedicated conservation education department schedules informative and interactive programs for the learning enjoyment of the visiting public. In particular, the center hosts weekend programs on various wildlife topics—from elk to birding activities—that are at no cost to visitors. Please review the following schedule to find a weekend program that interests you.
Elk Country Visitor Center
September 2023 Weekend Programs
Saturday, September 2nd, 2pm Elk Smart
Elk Smart is a new initiative to help remind visitors who come to Elk Country to preserve the wild nature of the PA elk herd. Learn the four principles of Elk Smart, how to practice them, and their importance.
Sunday, September 3rd, 2pm PA Furbearers
Pennsylvania has a long list of furbearers whose pelts made a large impact on the trappers and settlers. Join our staff to learn all about these curious creatures and have a hands-on experience with the pelts and skulls of these amazing animals.
Saturday, September 9th, 2pm Elk Basics
New to learning about elk? Join us for the basic breakdown as we learn about elk history, elk ecology and elk behavior. Are you a seasoned “Elkspert?” We bet you’ll learn something new too!
Sunday, September 10th, 2pm Black Bears
Do you want to learn more about black bears? Now is your chance to learn! Black bears are super interesting creatures and a large part of nature! Come join our PSU Dubois intern Makayla to learn about black bear biology, food habits, hibernation, helpful tips and more.
Saturday, September 16th, 2pm Tree Identification
Have you ever thought to yourself, “What is that tree?” Well, now you will get a chance to ID that tree! You will learn how to identify several common trees found throughout the eastern deciduous forest through a variety of ways including the leaves, bark, arrangement, form, and seeds. Join our PSU Dubois intern Liz on a short hike to improve your tree ID skills!
Sunday, September 17, 2pm Elk Explanations
New to learning about elk? Join us for the basic breakdown as we learn about elk history, elk ecology, and elk behavior. Are you a seasoned “Elkspert?” We bet you’ll learn something new too! Have burning questions about elk? Wondering how elk are managed? Perhaps you have a question on their favorite foods or habits? Maybe you’d like to know how long they live or when the calving season is? Join our staff at the Elk Country Visitor Center to find the answers to these questions and more!
Saturday, September 23rd, 12pm PA Snakes
Have you ever seen a snake and wondered what kind it was? Come join our PSU Dubois intern Gus and learn how to identify the snakes found in PA. Gus will also teach us how to tell the difference between venomous and nonvenomous snakes.
Saturday, September 23rd, 2pm Elk Walk and Talk
Join a staff member as we walk the trails around the Elk Country Visitor Center. Learn many interesting facts about the property and wildlife that often inhabit these fields. We will be covering topics such as what elk eat, where they spend time, and how each season brings something different.
Sunday, September 24th, 2pm PA Invasive Species
Invasive species are everywhere. Come join our PSU Dubois intern Dakota as he teaches us how to identify the invasive species that inhabit Pennsylvania today. He will include aquatic plants, insects, birds, mammals and woody stem plants. Dakota will also cover the history of how they got here, how to stop the spread, and how to manage them.
Saturday, September 30th, 2pm Spotted Lanternfly with the Elk County Conservation District
Have you heard of the Invasive Spotted Lanternfly which is making its way across Pennsylvania? Are you interested in learning what you can do to help combat the spread and protect your valuable crops and fruit trees? Join the Elk County Conservation District, as they discuss the origins of this insect, its lifecycle, favorite host plants, and what you can do to help stop the spread!
Sunday, October 1st, 2pm Salamanders of Pennsylvania
Have you ever been walking through the woods and wondered what was under the rock you just stepped over? Chances are there is a salamander under there. Come join PSU Dubois intern Sallee to learn how to identify and handle these slimy critters!
If you have any questions, please contact our Con Ed staff at (814) 787 – 5173
Emails: Ben Porkolab ConEd@KECAUS.com
Hunter Horning ConEdSp@KECAUS.com
The Elk Country Visitor Center can accommodate large groups or tours. Call for more information or to schedule your group.
The Elk Country Visitor Center is operated by the Keystone Elk Country Alliance, a non-profit 501c(3). We are located at 134 Homestead Drive in Benezette, PA. For more information call 814-787-5167 or visit us at www.ExperienceElkCountry.com.
