Allegheny River Headwaters Watershed Conservation Plan

Allegheny River Headwaters Conservation Plan
Chapter 6. Issues and Concerns
CHAPTER 6. ISSUES AND CONCERNS
One of the most important steps in the development of a watershed conservation plan is providing
opportunities for local residents to express their concerns and address issues within the watershed area.
Local stakeholders were given the unique opportunity to give their perspective on topics affecting
everyday life in the region. Initial meetings, school visits, public and municipality surveys, and key
individual interviews were conducted in an effort to gather this public perspective. Expressed views and
opinions represent those of the stakeholders, and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the
Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) or representatives of the project steering committee.
Meeting Summaries
Initial Meetings
In March 2009, a series of three meetings were held for
the McKean and Potter County communities, as well as
surrounding communities, in an effort to develop a plan for the
future of the region, in regards to the Allegheny River and its
tributaries. These meetings were hosted by WPC, as well as
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Recreation and Conservation,
and local partners. Those who attended were given an
opportunity to offer their input concerning the natural and
community resources in the region.
Initial public meeting held in Bradford
March 2009
School Visits
From December 2008 to May 2009, three high schools—Coudersport High School, Port Allegany
High School, and Smethport High School—in the area were visited to gain input from the students of the
region. Students discussed a wide variety of topics in regards to the region, such as likes, recreation,
needed improvements, and potential projects. The results of the school visits will be identified later in this
chapter.
Surveys and Interviews
Surveys and interviews of key individuals were performed to get a better understanding of the
thoughts, feelings, and ideas of the local residents in this region. Surveys were distributed in an effort to
obtain information pertaining to the importance of certain aspects in the area. It asked questions that
covered watershed values, the importance of recreation, key issues to address in the plan, and lastly, what
amenities are lacking in the area.
Interviews of key individuals in the area were also performed in an effort to gain information with
regards to the region. The interviews consisted of questions about how the area has changed over the
years, the needs of the community, recreational opportunities, positive and negative features of the
watershed, and potential projects. The results of both the surveys and interviews will be identified later in
this chapter.
Issues and Concerns
Issues and concerns of the community members in the watershed region will be identified and
summarized in the following sections. The issues and concerns about to be discussed have been
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