Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn recently announced the department is seeking applicants for its new Next Gen Council, which has a goal to increase public participation and diversity at state parks and forests by gathering input from a diverse group of engaged individuals.

The development of the council is part of DCNR’s mission to conserve and sustain Pennsylvania’s natural resources for present and future generations’ use and enjoyment.

“DCNR is committed to expanding access to outdoor recreation and ensuring public lands are welcoming to all, which is why we are creating the Next Gen Council, with an eye for new approaches to engagement, programs and other opportunities,” Dunn said. “This council is a great opportunity to learn more about DCNR and what it does, as well as a chance to provide fresh, new ideas to help promote our beautiful state parks, forests and other natural resources.

“We are excited to see this council come to fruition and are eager to accept applications and select the charter council.”

Locally, there are several state parks and forests throughout the region, including Beltzville, Hickory Run, Tuscarora and Lehigh Gorge, just to name a few.

DCNR is launching the Next Gen Council to increase public participation and expand its diversity of perspectives to help to inform DCNR programs and operations, while also creating lasting engagement with young people.

Those selected to the council would help inform the agency’s work, advance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and create lasting change and necessary conditions to ensure all Pennsylvanians feel welcome on public lands.

Applications will be accepted through Jan. 16, 2022.

“We want people who are willing to share their ideas and perspectives,” Dunn said. “Experience and conservation and government is not needed to apply, but we do want people who are willing to work together toward the goal of supporting recreation for all, especially our future generations.”

The council will meet once every three months. Meetings are virtual to reduce travel and promote accessibility.

Council term is two years, and council members are expected to participate in at least 75 percent of meetings.

Any questions about council, and your application materials, can be directed to Emily Hendrickson at RA-NRDCNREQUITY@pa.gov.

For more information, visit DCNR’s website.