Burchfield: Social distancing — from bugs

More than ever, taking a walk, especially hiking, has become an attractive form of exercise.

Hiking trails remain open to the public within the Allegheny National Forest, State Forests, and State Game Lands.

According to a news release provided by the Allegheny National Forest: In part it stated that the Allegheny National Forest has issued a closure order to prohibit all fires, overnight camping, and mandating a group-size limitation of 10 people or less per group across the entire Forest effective April 6. The closure order effectively temporarily shuts down all developed recreation sites, restrooms, and facilities.

However, the release states that other recreational opportunities in the Allegheny National Forest such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing on the Allegheny Reservoir, Allegheny and Clarion rivers, hiking, and backpacking remain available to the public.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams DunnDunn pointed out, “The public will still be able to access trails, lakes, forests, roads, and parking areas for passive and dispersed recreation, such as hiking.”

Hiking has its advantages for those who seek ways to maintain social distancing from others.

However, those who choose to explore the outdoors need to provide themselves with an added line of personal protection.

Warmer weather brings with it insects, some of which can offer their own type of health risks that includes Lyme disease.

Read the full article by Charlie Burchfield on The Bradford Era's website here.