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:

Veteran & Frontline Initiative

Ice Fishing 101: Safety, Regulations, and Conservation
Saturday, February 14, 2026 | 10 am 

As anglers head out onto frozen lakes and ponds, join us for a special program in partnership with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC). This educational opportunity allows participants to meet their local Waterway Conservation Officers, learn best practices for ice safety, and gain a better understanding of fishing regulations and conservation efforts.

Participants will have the chance to ask questions, engage directly with PFBC staff, and build knowledge that helps ensure a safe and enjoyable winter angling experience. We look forward to continuing our partnership with PFBC through future educational programs and service opportunities that support safe recreation and healthy waterways.

🗓️ Saturday, February 14th, 2026 | 10am
📍 William E. Chatlos Environmental Education Center

This program is tailored to veterans, active-duty military personnel, and first responders.​
Veteran & Frontline Initiative

Walk It Off: February Hike at Lacawac
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 10am 

Tired of the couch? Not a fan of asphalt? Have we got a deal for you? Brave the cold, snow, and whatever weather gets thrown at us as we start Walk It Off, the Veteran and Frontline Initiative hiking group. We’ll start with a short hike, about a mile, at Lacawac Sanctuary, and see the beauty and peace of the winter woods. For anyone that wants to keep going, we can explore more of Lacawac’s 10+ miles of trails. As the weather is temperamental this time of year, please register to receive notifications of any possible changes.

🗓️ Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 | 10am
📍 William E. Chatlos Environmental Education Center

​This hiking program is tailored to veterans, active-duty military personnel, and first responders.

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:

Robert Y. Moffat Charitable Trust

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