Nature Works

Experience the Great Outdoors from the Comfort of Your Own Home during the

2021 NatureWorks Environmental Expo

Go on a virtual adventure around the Laurel Highlands during the fourth annual NatureWorks Environmental Expo presented by The Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center and Penguin Court, a Preserve of Brandywine Conservancy. The online version of NatureWorks will take place on Saturday, March 6 from 9 AM – 2 PM.   

For the past three years, the Art Works Building’s Activity Center has been filled with more than 25 conservation-themed groups and agencies showcasing all there is do in Cambria County and beyond. But due to the global pandemic and mitigation efforts, organizers decided to transform this free, one-day event into a virtual offering.  

“The pandemic has forced a lot of organizations to reimagine their in-person activities,” says Bottle Works Co-Director Melody Tisinger. “Thanks to our sponsors the Community Foundations for the Alleghenies and REI Co-Op, we will be able to continue to teach families about the abundant natural resources in our region and promote outdoor play, appreciation and conservation concepts to all who tune in.”

Staying true to form, the event will continue to be an interactive experience.  Presentations will be livestreamed on the Bottle Work’s Face Book page live stream. 

NatureWorks Livestream Presenters and topics are as follows:

• Mountain Laurel Trout Unlimited will talk about coldwater conservation and macroinvertebrates (small aquatic insects in various stages of development). They will also demonstrate fly tying using feathers and fur that is attached to hook to look like stream bugs.
• The Allegheny Plateau Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will demonstrate how to turkey call and teach regional conservation efforts and everything there is to know about turkeys.
• PA Fish and Boat Commission will teach viewers about fish characteristics and adaptions using fish models.
• Cambria County Conservation District will share information on vernal pools—seasonal wetlands—and springs. In addition, they will show viewers live specimens and discuss amphibian migration.
• The Stoneycreek Conemaugh River Improvement Project (SCRIP) will lead a guided activity on the properties of water.

“More people have been seeking refuge and renewal in the great outdoors, and we hope that these presentations will help viewers appreciate and understand the world around them,” says Penguin Court Program Manager and NatureWorks Co-chair Melissa Reckner.

Additional videos from Allegheny Ridge Corp., Benscreek Canoe Club, Penguin Court, Penn State Master Gardeners of Cambria County, and REI Co-Op can be found our Bottle Works YouTube Page.

Special thanks

Aside from the NatureWorks Event, The Art Works Main Gallery feature nature artist is Kimberly Williams in an exhibition entitled “All Creatures Great and Small.” Her artwork will be on display and available for purchase March 6 – April 24.  The public is welcome to view this show in-person during operation hours or can take a tour via our virtual Gallery.