“Public Access To Properties”
Highland owns considerable tracts of land, totaling over 3,600 acres, primarily part of the watershed at our various water sources. Those properties are open to public use and enjoyment (and HUNTING) via a Co-operative Agreement with the Pennsylvania Game Commission (814-674-5351). The properties are “open” under the same provisions as though they were actually State Game Lands. Game Commission and PA Fish & Boat Commission regularly patrol our properties and enforce the applicable regulations. In addition to simply enjoying nature (Hiking, Birding, Photography, etc.) our properties are open to Public Hunting. Please observe all Safety Zone postings and keep our property free from Litter and other types of Pollution. For a location map of Highland’s properties (CLICK HERE) for a System Map, which shows the properties in a “Forest GREEN”.
PUBLIC Access @ BEAVERDAM RESERVOIR
Since completion of construction and it’s filling in 1976 Beaverdam Reservoir had been closed to all use and access, other than as a public drinking water supply. Highland’s Boards, with membership changes, had historically maintained the position that the Authority is first and foremost a Public (Potable) Water Supplier and that public use of its reservoirs were in conflict with its mission. Reasons cited for keeping the reservoirs closed included the possibility or potential for: Pollution, Litter, Accidents/Liability, Public Perception and drain on manpower dealing with “Fishing/Boating” matters instead of devoting that time on drinking water matters.
However, in August of 1999 Highland met with representatives of a local grass-roots movement dedicated to “adopting” and caring for the reservoir on a continuing basis. The unique aspect of their presentation was an assurance to Highland that they would form a Club or Association with the sole/main purpose of “policing” and “maintaining” the Beaverdam Reservoir property. They also envisioned youth involvement, fishing derbies and general community and public involvement and stewardship. This idea struck a cord with the Highland Board as it presented a greater customer/public involvement and benefit. Several meeting were held with this prospective Association during the Fall (1999) to formulate their presentation and for Highland to establish the parameters by which it would consider opening the reservoir.
Accordingly, the Highland Board formulated the following Position:
WE WOULD OFFER THE USE AND ENJOYMENT, OF LIMITED FISHING AND BOATING, OF THE BEAVERDAM RESERVOIR TO OUR CUSTOMERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC IF “FIRST-CLASS” ACCESS/LAUNCH AND PARKING FACILITIES COULD BE CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED AT NO COSTS TO THE HIGHLAND RATE PAYERS. WE WOULD ALLOW SUCH USE TO CONTINUE, THROUGH A CO-OPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH THE PA FISH/BOAT COMMISSION, AS LONG AS OUR PROPERTY IS MAINTAINED AND KEPT CLEAN BY THE USERS OF THAT FACILITY.
Consequently, we conducted negotiations with the Fish/Boat Commission and fine-tuned a formal Agreement, with certain stipulations and restrictions, which was ratified by the Highland Board on June 6, 2000. During the same time, the original group organized local or otherwise interested individuals into a bona-fide non-profit “Association”, picking the name “Beaverdam Conservation Group”. Initial membership topped 200. Local individuals, contractors, businesses, politicians, municipal officials and governmental agencies were solicited to provide either money, manpower or equipment to construct the needed “first-rate” Parking and Boat Launch facilities.
The “improved” (crushed stone top) Parking and Boat Launch were completed by June 30, 2000. Highland formally dedicated the facility with a “Grand Opening” ceremony at Noon on Thursday, July 6, 2000.
All typical PA Fish and Boat Commission laws and regulations apply to activity at the reservoir. In addition, added stipulations have been imposed by Highland and will be enforced by Commission personnel.
The opening of this reservoir to Highland’s customers and the general public presents a significant asset to enhance the recreational opportunities and quality of life in our region. With care and effort Public Drinking Water and Public Use can co-exist. The Public’s use also presents an opportunity to increase their awareness of use and protection of our watersheds, today and with future generations. We hope people will enjoy not only the Fishing and Boating, but also the natural beauty, wildlife and scenic views. Highland is proud to present this facility to its customers and the public at large and thereby demonstrate a greater degree of community involvement. All those persons and entities which played a part in this Project should be commended.
