Centred Outdoors Explores Millbrook Marsh Nature Center

Clearwater Conservancy’s Centred Outdoors program invites the public to adventure along the boardwalk at Millbrook Marsh Nature Center this week. Located in the heart of State College, Millbrook Marsh is an ideal nearby destination for anyone in search of relaxation, outdoor education and an appreciation for our region’s intricate system of wetlands and waterways.

Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, 548 Puddintown Road, is a 62-acre site managed by Centre Region Parks and Recreation with many distinct features including a boardwalk, picnic pavilion, sun shelters, the Spring Creek Education Building and a restored bank barn.

Approximately 50 acres of the property consist of wetland habitat that supports a wide variety of plants and wildlife, some which are rare because of the specific type of wetland they rely on for survival. This large area of wetland supports wildlife and people by slowing the speed of flooding and by filtering water that enters Spring Run, Thompson Run and Slab Cabin Run, which eventually flow into the Chesapeake Bay. A conservation easement between ClearWater Conservancy and Penn State University protects this unique wetland from future development.

The public is invited to join free guided hikes at Millbrook Marsh Nature Center on Sunday, Aug. 28, at 1 and 3 p.m. and Thursday, Sept. 1, at 10 a.m. Experts with Millbrook Marsh will lead educational explorations along the boardwalk as participants learn about the area’s history and the plants and animals working together to keep the ecosystem healthy and balanced. This adventure is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

On Sunday, yoga activities will also be offered at no cost by Michelle Rogan. She is a certified yoga instructor and Reiki practitioner with 15 years’ experience and training in mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). With her expertise and meditation and breathwork tools, Michelle will help participants enhance their well-being and healing.

All Centred Outdoors events are free, open to everyone and suitable or modifiable for all ages and fitness levels. All event details can be found at www.centredoutdoors.org.

PLANNING TO ATTEND?

Dates:

• Sunday, Aug. 28, with guided nature walks at 1 and 3 p.m.

• Thursday, Sept. 1, with a guided nature walk at 10 a.m.

Address:

• 548 Puddintown Road, State College

Parking:

• There is ample parking at this location.

Difficulty:

• Easy and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Terrain will vary between grass, boardwalk and trail.

Pets:

• Pets on a leash are welcome.

What to bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes.

• Filled water bottle.

• Sunscreen and hat.

• Bug spray and/or long pants and sleeves for insect and tick protection.

• Child-carrying pack for young children.

• Snack or picnic for before or after your walk.