Lumber Heritage Region: 2020 Year in Review

Adapting to Change and Strengthening Leadership

Staff Transition
The departure of Outreach Coordinator Steve Manginell in September and the hiring of Jennifer Swatsworth as Project Manager in October marked a significant transition. Jennifer’s expertise brought new energy to the team, helping us navigate through these changes.

Clear and Concise Agendas
We continued using consent agendas for staff and committee reports, ensuring efficient and focused meetings. Action items were addressed separately under Old or New business, streamlining our decision-making process.

Navigating COVID-19 and Enhancing Connectivity

Technology for Meetings
With COVID-19 restrictions, LHR purchased a non-profit Zoom membership, facilitating remote meetings for committees and the board. This technology also enabled regular morning staff meetings and project collaborations.

Overcoming Regional Challenges
Despite the pandemic, staff visited each county, building relationships with officials, businesses, and outreach entities. These visits were crucial for the Wayfinding program and other regional initiatives.

Expanding Visitor Engagement and Promoting Heritage

Wayfinding Signage
The Wayfinding Totems project progressed significantly, with 12 signs installed and contracts for two more. The Selfie Trail and Geocaching initiatives were promoted to increase awareness and visitor engagement.

Driving Tours and Interpretive Initiatives
We created and promoted a driving route using Wayfinding signs, allowing visitors to explore the region and learn about the significance of our lumber heritage at various assets.

Building Partnerships and Community Engagement

Strengthening Partnerships
County visits were instrumental in spreading awareness about LHR and solidifying partnerships. The Project Manager worked on revamping the partnership program, creating a procedural document to define objectives and strengthen our network.

Clarifying Board and Staff Roles
The transition to a Project Manager position involved a complete job description overhaul, clearly outlining tasks and responsibilities, ensuring effective role clarity.

Financial Growth and Project Funding

Raising Funds Outside of DCNR Grants
In 2020, we received funding from the Lycoming County Visitors Bureau, Lyme Timber Company, and PA Wilds Center. We also secured PPP funding to match our grant projects, enhancing our financial stability.

Funded Projects
Several projects were awarded funding in June 2020, including:

• AHUG – Allegheny Hardwoods Utilization Group: A video profiling the Allegheny National Forest and interactive kiosks.
• PALMA – PA Lumber Museum Associates: Furnishing educational demonstrations in the Lumber Camp.
• Cameron County Chamber: Development of an outdoor recreation map and brochure.
• Mt. Jewett to Kinzua Bridge Trail Club: Placement of interpretive signs and a community mural.
• Dubois Area Historical Society: An educational panel highlighting the DuBois Family’s impact on the region.
• KWPA – Keystone Wood Products Association: A video showcasing the journey of forest products.
• Borough of Kane: Restoration of a historic trestle with interpretive panels.
• Clearfield County Historical Society: Reprint of “Lumbering and Rafting in Clearfield County” by James Mitchell.
• ANF Visitors Bureau: Creation of videos highlighting the Allegheny National Forest Region’s history and recreational opportunities.

Outreach and Community Connections

Newsletter and Social Media
Our newsletter saw a consistent open rate, with themed articles and partner sections keeping our community engaged. On Facebook, we experienced significant growth, with over 2,000 new users and increased page views attributed to our marketing efforts.

Looking Ahead to 2021

Future Plans

• Wayfinding Program: Completing sign installations in Cambria and Clarion counties, and revamping the geocaching trail.
• Diversity Study: Finalizing research and creating interpretive panels and educational resources.
• Partner Program: Expanding our partner network with a goal of adding 40 new partners in 2021.
• Oil and Lumber Presentation: Collaborating with the Oil Region Alliance to offer virtual presentations on the historical connections between lumber and oil.
• Video Project: Recording and preserving the history of lumbermen for future generations.

We are optimistic about the future and look forward to another year of growth and community engagement, driven by our dedicated team, supportive partners, and engaged community.