Residents and visitors of Pike County share fond memories of swimming and fishing in our lakes and streams as well as exploring our many forested trails. Will healthy lakes, streams and forested trails be available for future generations to enjoy?

Pike County owes its economy and social well being to the scenic beauty of our area. Our exceptional natural resources support the quality of life that our residents, visitors and businesses enjoy.

In the next decade Pike and other counties in the Northeast PA region will attract thousands of new residents. The challenge is to protect these same natural and economic resources in the face of increasing land development pressures. Whether you live in the city or the country… whether your home is large or small… whether you have a lot of time or money to invest or just a little… there is something you can do to help protect these vital resources.

Here are a few simple steps on what you can do in your community, and around your home, to protect the quality of life in Pike County.

Plant a Tree for Future Generations

Trees are perhaps one of Pike County’s most important resources. Our publicly and privately owned forests support our communities in many ways.

• Water Quantity: trees are mini-reservoirs, their leaves, branches and roots catch and store rainfall, reducing water runoff. 
• Water Quality: trees act as filters – native trees and plants along lakes, streams, and wetlands catch dirt and debris protecting the quality of the water.
• Economic Strength: the forest industry depends on healthy, well-managed forests but so do other areas of our local economy. The scenic vistas, summer camps, hunting and fishing clubs, summer residents and tourists all depend on our forested areas.
• Wildlife Habitat: trees protect stream banks, provide shade, control temperature and provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Here’s What You Can Do:

• Plant trees and maintain existing tress on your property wherever possible. Trees protect your home from wind, reduce heating and cooling costs and enhance your property’s value.
• Practice sustainable forestry to ensure forest health.
• Support municipal and county actions that protect our forests.

Trees are an important part of our long-term conservation efforts. Trees contribute to our health and quality of life.