THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE THE MOUNTAINS FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

from Pocono Living Magazine - June/July 2023

PACKING FOR CAMP: What You Need for All Types of Camps

Celebrate the holidays surrounded by great company and even better cuisine in the Pocono Mountains. From romantic dinners by candlelight to farm-to-table experiences, our local chefs are serving up something for every palate. Visit PoconoMountains.com to see all of our mouth-watering dining options and make your reservation.

Affectionately known as “The Cranberry” to nearby residents, Tannersville Cranberry Bog has become ingrained in the local community and culture, inspiring wonder among the students, educators, scientists, nature lovers and photographers who visit each year. Of special interest are some of North America’s most beautiful native orchids, including rose pogonia and the stateendangered heart-leaved twayblade.

As the Tannersville Cranberry Bog is one of its first nature preserves, The Nature Conservancy continues to engage the surrounding community in conserving this geological remnant of a long-ago ice age. In return for this careful stewardship, the bog soaks up rain and runoff like a giant sponge – cleansing water and controlling pollution throughout the Pocono Creek watershed. In 2006, a former elementary school teacher bequeathed 11 acres to the Conservancy in order to expand the preserve she once shared with her students. The Conservancy later acquired 67 more acres from her estate – property that would have otherwise been developed to support more than 20 new homes.

Threats

Residential development, water pollution and groundwater depletion.

Action

Managing the preserve with assistance from volunteers and partners. Providing educational opportunities for the local community. Acquiring land and conservation easements.

Milestones

Creation of a floating boardwalk during the 1980's that provides accessibility without damage to the bog. Acquisition of 78 acres in 2006 to expand the preserve to 900 acres, including 300 acres purchased in partnership with Pocono Township.

Partners

Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Pocono Township, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and a local volunteer stewardship committee.