COVID-19 has changed our park landscapes.  Overcrowding in urban parks  has driven people outside their communities into surrounding  municipalities, state parks, and state forests for recreation activity.  Increased traffic in smaller communities, on trails, and public open  spaces demonstrates the importance of our industry. However, not all  municipalities are prepared for increased demands on their systems.   As more people continue to utilize services and amenities,  infrastructure and logistical challenges may occur. More people generate  more waste to manage. How can we best prepare our facilities to manage  waste from unexpected crowds? What steps can we take in our  infrastructure and operations planning to adjust? What resources are  available out there to help?  The topic of discussion in our next Shop Talk panel is waste management  best practices and illegal dumping mitigation. Recorded: July 23, 2020

We have invited a group  of industry experts to share insights and answer questions:  

Marci Mowery, President, Pennsylvania Parks & Forests Foundation 

Laura Henry, Environmental Group Manager, Pennsylvania Dept. of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Waste Management 

Heidi Pedicone, Director of Programs, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful