Contractors working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District install a 23-foot-tall concrete shaft enclosure weighing approximately 120,000 pounds as part of the guard wall at the Monongahela River Locks and Dam 4 in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, Nov. 16, 2023.

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Headwaters Highlights: Youghiogheny River Lake team wins national partnership award

Pittsburgh District
Published May 8, 2023
Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

Nicole Govan, a natural resource specialist with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, walks around during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

Emily Conn, a student with the Turkeyfoot Valley High School National Honors Society, volunteers by doing face painting during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

Col. Adam Czekanski, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, presents certificates of appreciation to volunteers and partners who helped organize the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

Nicole Govan, a natural resource specialist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, smiles for a portrait during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

Teachers and school staff with the Turkeyfoot school district share a laugh while waiting to board a boat ride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

Nicole Govan, a natural resource specialist with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, helps visitors with wearing life jackets before going on a boat ride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

Visitors go on a boat ride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

Visitors help one another wear life jackets for a boat ride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day

A volunteer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District walks two kids from a boating dock after a boat ride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Grant Pierce, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, helps a kid unhooking a caught fish during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Grant Pierce, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, helps a kid with a fishing rod during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Tom Briar, one of the founders of the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, holds an award certificate with Vince Klinkner, the resource manager for the Youghiogheny River Lake, during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Bobber, the water safety dog mascot for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, greets kids during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Visitors line up for a hayride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Dan Kelley, a farmer and volunteer, drives a tractor to provide hayrides around a campground for visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Kids dance and run around in circles to music during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Volunteers serve lunch to visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Scott Hannah, a natural resource manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, lines up for lunch during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Visitors line up for lunch during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Officers with the Pennsylvania Game Commission Southwest Region show a tranquilized black bear to visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Officers with the Pennsylvania Game Commission Southwest Region bring a tranquilized black bear to show and educate visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Officers with the Pennsylvania Game Commission Southwest Region check on a tranquilized black bear brought to show and educate visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. Officers with the Pennsylvania Game Commission Southwest Region check on a tranquilized black bear brought to show and educate visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Kids step off a hayride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Dan Kelley, a farmer and volunteer, drives a tractor to provide hayrides around a campground for visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Walt Kinsey, a volunteer, plays a guitar and sings songs on a hayride around a campground for visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Walt Kinsey, a volunteer, plays a guitar and sings songs on a hayride around a campground for visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Walt Kinsey, a volunteer, plays a guitar and sings songs on a hayride around a campground for visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Ryan Smith (right), a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, talks to a visitor during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Kids play a ring toss game during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Volunteers load bags of popcorn for visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Hope Johnson learns to cast a fishing line with the help of a waterways conservation officer from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Tyler Crooks, a waterways conservation officer with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, teaches students how to cast a fishing line during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Visitors arrive to participate in the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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A student shows affection toward a school faculty after arriving to the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Students, teachers and volunteers from various schools across Somerset and Fayette counties arrive to participate in the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Students with the Turkeyfoot Valley High School National Honors Society set up outdoor games for visitors coming to the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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A recycling truck switches out collection bins at Youghiogheny River Lake in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
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Students with the Turkeyfoot Valley High School National Honors Society pose for a selfie before volunteering for the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

PITTSBURGH – From patrolling the waters during the annual Fourth of July boat night parade to installing fish habitats alongside Boy Scout groups, park rangers and staff at the Youghiogheny River Lake are constantly working with partners, volunteers, and state agencies to improve recreational opportunities for the public.

“It makes it easy to partner with them because they always have a smile on their face,” said Carol Gulya, one of the directors of the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake.

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
Pittsburgh District
Nicole Govan, a natural resource specialist with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, helps visitors with wearing life jackets before going on a boat ride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230505-A-TI382-2470

The Friends for the Yough, a nonprofit group, nominated the Youghiogheny staff for a national partnership award, which they won this year.

“They are just wonderful to work with, and we just adore them,” Gulya said of the Youghiogheny staff.

The Public Lands Alliance awarded Youghiogheny River Lake’s staff and the Friends with the 2023 Partnership Award. The prestigious award previously recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks.

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
Pittsburgh District
Tom Briar, one of the founders of the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, holds an award certificate with Vince Klinkner, the resource manager for the Youghiogheny River Lake, during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230505-A-TI382-1947

“It’s a very special recognition,” Gulya said.

According to the PLA website, the award celebrates the best public lands partnerships and programs nationwide in preserving public lands and enriching visitors’ experiences.

“We developed a strong partnership with groups who helped us accomplish our goals far better and easier than our staff could accomplish on our own,” said Vince Klinkner, the resource manager at Youghiogheny River Lake.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, a federal agency, operates the Youghiogheny River Lake and dam. The reservoir’s primary purpose is to mitigate downstream flooding by holding back water during heavy rains. Throughout the year, thousands of visitors enjoy the lake and lands for boating, camping, hiking, fishing, and other recreation.

“Our partners’ effort and their support are critical to our successful operations and management of our public lands,” Klinkner said.

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
Youghiogheny Partnership Award
Officers with the Pennsylvania Game Commission Southwest Region show a tranquilized black bear to visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230505-A-TI382-1412

The Friends group is a community-focused nonprofit that helps raise funds and organize volunteer events to preserve natural resources and improve recreational opportunities at Youghiogheny River Lake.

Throughout 2022, park rangers at Youghiogheny hosted community, safety, and cleanup events with different organizations, like local schools, volunteers, and Pennsylvania state partners.

“There are so many people who are invested in helping us. You’ll hear stories of people who have been coming here for 30 or 40 years, or it’s their children. They have a long legacy of being here. Youghiogheny is part of their childhood or part of their life, either through camping or fishing on the lake, so they are vested and want to give back,” Klinkner said.

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
Pittsburgh District
A volunteer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District walks two kids from a boating dock after a boat ride during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230505-A-TI382-2357

The annual Special Recreation Day is one of the year’s most significant events at Youghiogheny. Hundreds of children and adults with special needs come from dozens of schools and care facilities to enjoy outdoor activities tailored just for them.

The Youghiogheny staff works with the Confluence Lions Club, the Friends for the Yough and other partners to coordinate the big day by providing fishing lessons, lake boat rides, hayrides, outdoor games, lunch, and other activities to hundreds of attendees. This year and last year, officers from the Pennsylvania Game Commission brought a live bear to teach the public about wildlife preservation.

“Our partnerships are so important. There is so much we could not do without you all,” said Col. Adam Czekanski, the Pittsburgh District commander, to a group of volunteers and representatives before handing out certificates of appreciation for their efforts during the event.

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
Youghiogheny Partnership Award
Dan Kelley, a farmer and volunteer, drives a tractor to provide hayrides around a campground for visitors during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230505-A-TI382-1789

Last year, the Friends of the Yough helped raise funds for a new life jacket rack that includes 50 personal flotation devices for visitors to borrow, and they worked with a grant program to purchase a new kayak launch, making it easier for rowers to get in and out of the water safely. The Friends also submitted a grant request for solar lighting at one of the lake’s parking lots. During National Public Lands Day, they helped clean trash and plant 32 trees along with volunteers.

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
Youghiogheny Partnership Award
Students with the Turkeyfoot Valley High School National Honors Society pose for a selfie before volunteering for the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230505-A-TI382-0107

During the summer, park rangers host courtesy dock inspections and water safety events to ensure boaters stay safe on the lake. Even in the wintertime or during the cool early spring months, the Youghiogheny staff remains busy improving visitor experiences.

“We have the opportunity to help somebody and serve the public every day,” Klinkner said. “That’s what we’re here to do. That’s something that we take great pride in. My motivation is to leave a lasting impression of our facilities and public lands. Thanks to our partnerships, we can do that.”

Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day
Youghiogheny Partnership Award
Tyler Crooks, a waterways conservation officer with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, teaches students how to cast a fishing line during the 49th Annual Youghiogheny Special Recreation Day in Confluence, Pennsylvania, May 4, 2023. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District operates Youghiogheny River Lake. The lake’s staff, in partnership with the Friends for the Youghiogheny River Lake, received the 2023 Public Lands Alliance Partnership Award for their combined work to continuously improve recreational activities on and around the lake for visitors. Park rangers at Youghiogheny work with local organizations, schools, volunteer groups and Pennsylvania state partners year-round to host community, safety and cleanup events. The prestigious award recognized iconic parks such as Yellowstone and Blue Ridge Mountain national parks in the past. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 230505-A-TI382-0718

 

“Headwaters Highlights” is part of a story series highlighting the facilities or teams that make the Pittsburgh District’s mission possible.

Pittsburgh District’s 26,000 square miles include portions of western Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia, eastern Ohio, western Maryland, and southwestern New York. It has more than 328 miles of navigable waterways, 23 navigation locks and dams, 16 multi-purpose flood-control reservoirs, 42 local flood-protection projects, and other projects to protect and enhance the nation’s water resources infrastructure and environment.


Chick Lock

Through deeds, not words, we are BUILDING STRONG®