Game Lands 51 and 138 will no longer allow rock climbing. | x )/Unsplash
Game Lands 51 and 138 will no longer allow rock climbing. | x )/Unsplash
The Pennsylvania Game Commission along with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will be prohibiting rock climbing on two game lands in Fayette County.
Game Lands 51 and 138 will no longer allow rock climbing, the Game Commission reported in a release. This is due to the rocky sandstone areas, a draw for rock climbers, that contain the habitats of rare, threatened or endangered flora and fauna. The spots have become increasingly active with climbers, causing damage to lichens and moss, as well as clearing vegetation and leaf litter.
Chris Urban, PFBC's nongame, threatened and endangered species coordinator, said in the release that the habitats are essential for the survival of several nongame species such as reptiles, amphibians and mammals in the rocky areas.
"The rocks provide protection from predators, overwintering habitat, and grounds to hunt for food," Urban said. "This habitat should be preserved in its natural condition if these species are to thrive there."
Game Commission Southwest Region Director Jason Farabaugh said in the release that although there has been degradation of habitats in the game lands, most of the climbers and groups encountered have been respectful toward wildlife and their habitats.
Game lands differ from public properties, as they focus on providing habitats for wildlife while also allowing hunting and trapping with proper licensing during dedicated seasons, the Game Commission reported. Other recreational activities are allowed as well, though that sometimes depends on the time of year.
"While state game lands importantly provide the public with places to hunt, trap and otherwise lawfully enjoy the outdoors, maintaining habitat that supports wildlife species, and protecting those species, is integral to the game lands system and the mission of the Pennsylvania Game Commission," said Game Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans. "The daily carrying out of that mission is a big reason why we have the wildlife we do in Pennsylvania and places to enjoy it."
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