Allegheny River Headwaters Watershed Conservation Plan
Allegheny River Headwaters Watershed Conservation Plan
Allegheny River Headwaters Watershed Conservation Plan
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<strong>Allegheny</strong> <strong>River</strong> <strong>Headwaters</strong> <strong>Conservation</strong> <strong>Plan</strong><br />
Chapter 5. Cultural Resources<br />
CHAPTER 5. CULTURAL RESOURCES<br />
This section provides an overview of the culture of the <strong>Allegheny</strong> <strong>River</strong> headwaters region by<br />
examining the historical and recreational resources available within the area. Included in this section is a<br />
summary of recreational opportunities, environmental education efforts, an historical overview, and an<br />
inventory of historical sites located throughout the region.<br />
Located within the Pennsylvania Wilds, the headwaters of the <strong>Allegheny</strong> <strong>River</strong> region boasts of<br />
numerous recreational activities that may charm people of all ages and backgrounds. The region is an<br />
asset; with a well-managed and balanced tourism industry, it appeals to visitors and local citizens, while<br />
protecting the original character of the region.<br />
Recreation<br />
Any activity conducted for amusement during leisure<br />
time is considered recreation. In Pennsylvania, recreation<br />
and tourism are big business, ranked as the second leading<br />
industry. For some areas in Pennsylvania, it is the only<br />
industry. Recreation brings in revenue from tourists seeking<br />
food, accommodations, and mementos of their visit to the<br />
area.<br />
Recreation is not only beneficial to the economy, but to<br />
the health of citizens and visitors of the region. Recreation<br />
is essential to improving quality of life, building strong<br />
Children on the playground at Roulette<br />
Township Park<br />
families and communities, and reducing health care, social services, police, and justice costs. Individuals<br />
who partake in recreational endeavors have more active lifestyles and have a reduced potential for selfdestruction<br />
and anti-social behaviors (Panorma Recreation, 2004).<br />
There are a variety of recreational facilities throughout the project area. Figure 5-1 displays the<br />
location of these facilities, which include a fitness trail, ball fields, and playgrounds.<br />
Parks<br />
Among the 44 parks within the project area, there is a great diversity of resources. Some parks are<br />
passive, not offering any facilities other than untouched open space, while others have picnic pavilions<br />
and playgrounds to entertain visitors. The region includes a variety of unique parks including a model<br />
airplane flying field and a sky diving center.<br />
Parks within the region are classified into four categories based upon size, service population, and<br />
intended use. In addition to being identified on Figure 5-1, park sites and their amenities are identified in<br />
Appendix N.<br />
Regional parks<br />
Regional parks are located within 30–60 minutes of the population they serve, and they typically<br />
offer a variety of amenities Hamlin Lake Park, Callahan Park, and Coudersport Area Recreation Park<br />
(CARP Park) are regional parks. The Potter and McKean County Fairgrounds are also deemed regional<br />
parks, although their use is limited to organized events, such as county fairs.<br />
5-1