The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ newly launched mobile website makes it easier for users of smartphones and tablet devices to connect with Pennsylvania’s natural world while on-the-go.
 
The new mobile site is found at www.m.dcnr.state.pa.us.
 
“The new site offers expedient, informative details through a medium we know is
being used more and more,” said DCNR Deputy Secretary John Giordano. “We have
seen a dramatic increase in web traffic from mobile devices to our main website.”
The mobile site provides an interface that quickly leads users to information in an
easy-to-read, mobile-friendly format. Visitors will find resources such as an
interactive map providing location-based services, up-to-the-minute news and
information via social feeds, and a searchable calendar of programs and events.
 
“This revolutionizes the way we use technology to connect residents with the
natural world,” said Giordano. “It is another great example of DCNR’s innovative
work to improve access to information and customer service.”
 
“This initiative is just one example of how DCNR is leveraging its internal
application development team to save costs and enable other state agencies to
share in its approach,” said DCNR Chief Information Officer Stephen Aux. “This is
just the beginning; we intend to build upon the site.”
 
DCNR features an array of outdoor recreational opportunities, unique natural areas,
and many other resources to which the mobile site can help lead visitors. In
addition to 2.2-million acres of state forests, Pennsylvania has 120 state parks
covering nearly 300,000 acres, which equates to a state park within 25 miles of
nearly every Pennsylvanian.
 
State parks are heavily integrated into local economies. For every dollar invested in
state parks, more than $12 is returned to Pennsylvania’s economy. Visitors to
Pennsylvania’s state parks generate more than $1 billion in economic activity in local communities and support almost 13,000 related jobs.