Lacawac's Veteran and Frontline Initiative brings together Lacawac Sanctuary, veterans, and community partners to support conservation, scientific research, and environmental education. This initiative provides veterans with meaningful ways to engage with the natural world, applying their skills, experience, and teamwork to projects that protect and sustain Lacawac’s 749 acres of forests, wetlands, and glacial lake. Through hands-on participation, veterans contribute directly to scientific discovery, habitat stewardship, and public engagement, fostering a lasting connection to Pennsylvania’s natural heritage.

To learn more about our upcoming Veteran & Frontline Programs click the link below.

Focus Areas:

  1. Conservation & Land Stewardship
    Veterans participate in habitat restoration, trail maintenance, invasive species management, and other projects that preserve biodiversity and maintain Lacawac’s ecosystems. Activities are designed to provide tangible contributions to the health and sustainability of the sanctuary’s lands.    ​
  2. Scientific Research & Citizen Science
    Participants support ongoing ecological and freshwater research by collecting data on water quality, wildlife populations, and forest health. Through citizen science projects, veterans contribute to real scientific studies, assisting researchers and students while gaining hands-on experience in environmental science methods.
  3. Environmental Education & Outreach
    The collaborative connects veterans with Lacawac’s educational initiatives, including public programs, workshops, and community engagement events. Veterans may serve as guides, mentors, or project leaders, helping to educate others about conservation, ecology, and the importance of protecting natural resources.
  4. Community & Leadership Engagement
    Leveraging teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills, veterans work alongside staff, volunteers, and other participants to carry out impactful projects. The collaborative fosters a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and connection while creating a meaningful bridge between military service and environmental stewardship.

Monthly Programs:

Grounded Together is a monthly Saturday program for veterans and first responders that explores nature-based topics through hands-on outdoor experiences.
Walk It Off is a monthly hiking group for veterans, active-duty military, and first responders. Fresh air. Good company. One step at a time.  This program will travel - so if there's a trail near you we should visit, email us your suggestion.  Coming soon to a trail near you.

Contact Us for More Information:
Veteran Program Manager
​Rich Arthur
​[email protected]

Help support our At Ease Veteran Program.  Click the button below !

Upcoming Programs & Events:

Victory Gardens: History on the Homefront
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 | 6pm

Join the At Ease Initiative at Lacawac’s Greenhouse for a special presentation on Victory Gardens, led by Anna Grismer of the National Park Service. Learn about the rich history of Victory Gardens, why they were planted, and how families used them to grow food and support their communities during times of war.

Additionally, after the program eligible participants interested in obtaining a free National Park Service Military Lifetime Pass can receive assistance from Anna and the National Park Service. Learn more about the NPS pass at www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/veterans-and-gold-star-families-free-access

Eligibility Requirements:
  • Veterans of the US Armed Forces and members of Gold Star Families are eligible for a Military Lifetime Pass. For purposes of this program, a veteran is identified as an individual who has served in the US Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves.
  • Gold Star Families are next of kin of a member of the US Armed Forces who lost his or her life in a “qualifying situation,” such as a war, an international terrorist attack, or a military operation outside of the United States while serving with the US Armed Forces.

🗓️ Wednesday, May 13, 2026 | 6pm
📍 William E. Chatlos Environmental Education Center

Memorial Day Fishing Tournament
hosted by At Ease Veteran & Frontline Initiative, Fin Chaser Warriors Outdoors, and Two River Anglers
​Saturday, May 23, 2026

This Memorial Day weekend, cast a line on the Lackawaxen and Delaware Rivers for a one-day catch-and-release tournament hosted by Lacawac’s At Ease Veteran & Frontline Initiative, Fin Chaser Warriors Outdoors, and Two River Anglers. This event brings anglers together for a day of fishing, friendly competition, and camaraderie. Proceeds support local veteran programs and striped bass conservation efforts.

Tournament Details:
🗓️ May 23, 2026
🕙 12am - 11:59pm
📍 Two River Anglers - 106 Scenic Drive, Lackawaxen, PA 18435

Entry Fee:
$50 per angler (Includes a Fishtechy measuring ball, $30 value)

Registration:
Register online or in person on Friday, May 22, 2026 at Two River Anglers.
All anglers must check in at Two River Anglers on Friday to pick up their Fishtechy measuring ball.

Awards Ceremony:
Winners will be announced on Sunday, May 24 at 12pm at Two River Anglers.

Prizes:
🥇 1st Place - $500 Cash Prize
🥈 2nd Place  - Striper/Catfish Rod & Reel Combo ($300 value; donated by Two River Anglers)
🥉 3rd Place - Fishing Tackle Dry Bag & Lure Package ($150 value; donated by Fin Chaser Warrior Outdoors and Two River Anglers)

Rules & Guidelines:
  • All fish must be caught during official tournament hours (May 23, 2026 12am - 11:59pm).
  • All entries must be submitted via the Fishtechy app.
  • Valid fishing licenses are required.
  • All local and state fishing regulations must be followed.
  • This is a catch-and-release event.

Walk It Off - May Hike at the Dick & Nancy Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain
Sunday, May 31, 2026 | 11am

Join Lacawac’s At Ease Veteran & Frontline initiative for our May Walk It Off Hike at the Dick and Nancy Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain. 

This month, we will be hiking the Conglomerate Trail, a scenic 1.3-mile route that winds through the preserve’s unique landscape. With over 10 miles of trails throughout the property, the Dick and Nancy Eales Preserve offers diverse ecosystems and excellent opportunities for wildlife observation along the way.

Please note that there are no restroom facilities available on-site, so plan accordingly before arrival.

View the Trail Map Here

🗓️ Sunday, May 31, 2026 | 11am
📍 The Dick and Nancy Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain (Our group will be meeting at the parking lot)
(Address: Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain, 222 In The Deed, Jessup, PA 18434)

Greenhouse & Garden Workday with Jeanine Davis
Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 10am

Join the At Ease Veteran & Frontline Initiative for a hands-on greenhouse and garden workday at Lacawac Sanctuary. During this educational workday, participants will work alongside Jeanine Davis to plant the Veteran & Frontline Initiative Garden while learning the fundamentals of starting and maintaining a garden.

Throughout the program, participants will explore the uses of the herbs and vegetables being planted, gain practical knowledge on plant care, and build confidence in their own gardening skills. This interactive experience offers an opportunity to connect with nature, learn something new, and take part in the continued growth of the garden space.

All skill levels are welcome to attend, just come prepared to get your hands dirty as we dig in and grow together.

🗓️ Saturday, June 13, 2026
🕐 10am
📍 Greenhouse/Visitor Center

A Legacy of Service

Lacawac Sanctuary is committed to supporting those who have served through the At Ease program, reflecting on our own history and ties to military service. The Watres family, a prominent part of our history, has notable military backgrounds. Colonel Louis A. Watres, who acquired the property served as a colonel in the National Guard during the Spanish-American War. Additionally, his grandson and founder of Lacawac Sanctuary, Arthur Watres, served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a Japanese interpreter. For many years the Watres family used Lacawac as both a summer retreat and a home where they connected with the beauty of the land. Inspired by the Watres legacy, we are dedicated to extending this connection with nature and the outdoors to those who have served.

Generously Supported by:

​Financial support provided by a VTF grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Robert Y. Moffat Charitable Trust