Image via West Chester University.
Of West Chester University’s 406 acres, more than 126 acres is a preserved forest and open space on South Campus used for environmental studies, reflection, and recreation: the Robert B. Gordon Natural Area for Environmental Studies (GNA). On the heels of the first Earth Day in 1970, the GNA was protected from development in 1971 and officially dedicated in 1973. It has been since designated a Wild Plant Sanctuary by the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the GNA’s dedication, the university will host a free “Forest Fest” on Saturday, Sept. 23 with tours and activities suitable for all ages. It will take place rain or shine from 1 to 4 PM in R Lot below Farrell Stadium on South New Street. Parking will be in Q Lot, from which people can take a short path leading to R Lot.
WCU Biology Professor Jessica Schedlbauer, who chairs the committee organizing Forest Fest, said, “Those of us who work in and care for the Gordon Natural Area are very excited about bringing the campus and community together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its dedication.” Hikes, demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and takeaways are on the schedule.
Those planning to attend are asked to bring a reusable water bottle to help minimize waste.
Exhibits and music from campus radio station WCUR will open the event at 1 PM. At 1:45 PM, Chief Brad Kills Crow and Mr. Jeremy Johnson, members of the Delaware Tribe of Indians, will invite those present to join a traditional participatory dance. Now based in Oklahoma, the Delaware are among the…
Illustration of a typical Lenape village 
