Shapiro Administration Unveils New Plan to Protect Pennsylvania's Parks and Forests from the Impacts of Climate Change

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November 10, 2026 - Spring Mills, PA

Shapiro Administration Unveils New Plan to Protect Pennsylvania's Parks and Forests from the Impacts of Climate Change

The Shapiro Administration is taking new steps to protect Pennsylvania's state parks, forests, and outdoor recreation areas from the growing impacts of climate change, while reducing the greenhouse gas emissions generated by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Today, DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn unveiled a new Climate Action Plan at the Mira Lloyd Dock Resource Conservation Center, establishing measurable goals and actions to make the Commonwealth's public lands and DCNR operations more sustainable and resilient through 2050.

Pennsylvania is already experiencing the effects of a changing climate, including increased flooding, more extreme heat days, harmful algal blooms, and shifting seasonal patterns. These changes can threaten public safety, harm natural resources, and affect the places Pennsylvanians and visitors enjoy for outdoor recreation. The plan builds on work already underway and sets goals for making DCNR's operations and public lands more sustainable and resilient for future generations.

Governor Josh Shapiro and his Administration are committed to protecting Pennsylvania's environment and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the Commonwealth's natural resources and outdoor spaces, including upholding Pennsylvanians' constitutional right to clean air, pure water, and the preservation of the environment.

"Pennsylvania's state parks and forests are among our greatest natural resources, and we have a responsibility to protect them for generations to come," said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. "This plan builds on the work DCNR is already doing to prepare our public lands for the impacts of climate change, protect the natural resources Pennsylvanians depend on, and reduce our own emissions. We're setting clear goals and taking practical steps to ensure these special places remain safe, healthy, and accessible for everyone."

Speakers:

• DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn
• Meredith Seltzer, Director, Climate and Sustainability, DCNR
• Seth Cassell, Director, Bureau of Forestry, DCNR
• Janet Swim, Ph.D., Associate Director, Penn State Climate Consortium and Prepare PA
• Peter Livengood, Next Gen Council Member and Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps Participant

• Press Release

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