Schuylkill Highlands Conservation Landscape

10/13/2026

President’s Message

As autumn arrives in the Blue Mountains and cooler days return, our mountains once again turn red, gold, and yellow. I encourage you to take advantage of this splendid time of year and get outside. If you’re looking for a hike, be sure to read further in this issue of The Eagle’s Flight. It details how we will celebrate the 100 year anniversary of BMECC trailblazing.

Of course, not every day is ideal for spending time outdoors. As I write this, we are feeling the effects of the nor’easter moving along the East Coast. So, while my last newsletter message focused on the outstanding outdoor work being done by our members, this seemed like a good time to highlight some of the hard work and accomplishments taking place behind the scenes.

If you haven’t visited the BMECC website recently, I encourage you to take another look. Jeff Dry, working in coordination with many others, has updated and improved the site. The first notable change to be seen will be the addition of a banner at the top of the home page directing visitors to the latest news and activities.

Jim Barnett, BMECC president

10/13/2026

To kick off September and Trails Month in Pennsylvania, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is now accepting letters of interest and resumes for four voluntary positions that will be opening on the 2027 Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee (PTAC). DCNR is seeking interested

10/13/2026

Planning a community tree-planting project for spring 2027? Mark your calendar!

The TreePennsylvania Bare Root Tree Grant process opens October 12, helping eligible Pennsylvania municipalities and nonprofit organizations bring more trees to streets, parks, schools, and other community spaces.

❗An important first step: Interested communities must attend the required grant webinar on October 26 to be eligible to apply. The webinar will cover the program, eligibility requirements, application process, and grantee responsibilities.

Since 2020, the program has helped communities plant more than 5,000 large-caliper bare-root trees across Pennsylvania.

If your community is considering a spring 2027 planting project, now is the time to start thinking about potential planting locations, local approvals, and project plans.

Learn more about the TreePennsylvania Bare Root Tree Program: https://ow.ly/UpIt50ZTvPs

10/13/2026

🐦‍🔥 Looking for all things Firebird? We've got a link for that! 🔥

We've made it easy to stay connected and get involved with the Phoenixville Firebird Festival!

Whether you want to share a meal with our builders, enter one of our raffles, support the festival or watch our award-winning documentary, you'll find it all in one convenient place!

🔗 Check out our Linktree! Save it, share it with friends and check back as we add more ways to be part of the Firebird magic!

👉 https://linktr.ee/firebirdfestival

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Phoenixville Firebird Festival 🐦‍🔥
December 12, 2026
firebirdfestival.com

10/13/2026

🍂🎃 HYS Fall Fest & Yellow Springs Great Pumpkin Classic RESCHEDULED! 🎃🍂
The forecast was looking a little too spooky for our liking! 👻🌧️ Since we want everyone to enjoy Fall Fest safely, we’ve decided to move the celebration to Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 12–4 pm.
And yes, Fall Fest is still rain or shine… but even we thought this forecast was a little too scary! 🎃😱
Join us on November 1 for an afternoon of live music from the Street Beans, village tours, pumpkin painting, crafts, the Haunted History House, the Yellow Springs Great Pumpkin Classic, and more!
📅 Sunday, November 1
🕛 12–4 pm
📍 Historic Yellow Springs
1685 Art School Road, Chester Springs, PA
Save the new date and come celebrate fall with us! 🍁🎃
Free admission

10/13/2026

10/13/2026

Hurry and get your tickets. Open to everyone so they are going to go fast. Use the QR code or click below to get your tickets. See you there! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/vwhv983/lp/0ef8d400-34e7-4d5c-8493-778c8a37d8a0

10/13/2026

We’re hiring a Vice President of Eastern Pennsylvania and Water Programs!

This position will direct programs in the northeast and southeast region of Pennsylvania and guide our statewide priorities for water quality, watershed restoration, source water protection, stormwater management, sustainable water management, and recreational access. Additionally, this role will oversee PEC’s work supporting the Poconos Forest and Waters Conservation Landscape and play a role in developing fundraising strategies to support regional programs and statewide water initiatives.

The deadline to apply is November 13th, 2026. Head to our website for more details.

10/13/2026

10/13/2026

Support your local Parks great event on October 24th