STATE COLLEGE — ClearWater Conservancy has finalized the sale of the 18.7-acre Smith Trust property in Halfmoon Township to the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
The property near Marengo Road and along Halfmoon Creek was acquired by ClearWater in January 2017 from the Smith Trust with the intention that the property would become part of the Scotia Barrens (State Game Lands 176).
The Scotia Barrens, located just west of State College, is one of Pennsylvania’s unique natural wonders. This rare habitat is one of the largest examples of pitch pine-scrub oak barrens remaining in the state — making it an extraordinary home for a wide variety of wildlife, a primary source of groundwater and a place to teach the next generation about the natural world.
The Barrens are also destination for outdoor recreation. The Barrens’ ability to support wildlife draws both birdwatchers and sportsmen, while miles of trails are open to hikers and some designated trails are for open bike riding at certain times of the year. The uniqueness of the habitat and the barrens’ geographic proximity to State College make it one of the most frequented outdoor recreation areas in the region.
More Community
View all Community
Through Painting, Improv and Teaching, Jackie Gianico Champions Everyday Creativity
Jackie Gianico blends education and the arts with her teaching, painting and performance.
ShelterFest Returns to Support Out of the Cold’s Mission
Out of the Cold is inviting the community to ShelterFest 2026, a four-day celebration of live music, local food and community support that helps ensure some of Centre County's most vulnerable residents have a safe place to sleep.
CATA Bus Shelter Gets a Bird-Friendly Upgrade
A Centre Area Transportation Authority bus stop is now serving as an example of how simple solutions can prevent bird collisions with glass. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service partnered […]
