Advisory Committee
John A. Straitiff
As executive director of the PA Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau, John A. Straitiff is a natural fit for WPC’s Ridgway Regional Advisory Committee. John joined the committee in 2015 to honor the memory of his friend and WPC board member Dr. Colson Blakeslee.
What parts of WPC’s work resonate with you?
Land Conservation, Land Stewardship and Watershed Conservation
What are some conservation issues that interest or concern you?
Habitat Loss, Watershed Restoration, Endangered or Threatened Species, Invasive Species, Land Development and Forest Connectivity
How did you become involved with WPC and what motivates you to stay involved?
My friend Dr. Colson Blakeslee was a WPC board member. He spoke very highly and passionately about the Conservancy’s work. I went to the dedication of the memorial recreation area in Medix Run and Matt Marusiak, WPC director of land protection, asked me to join the advisory committee. I proudly stay involved to honor Dr. Blakeslee’s memory.
Tell us about a favorite nature experience or memory.
The first time I saw a wild bull elk in Pennsylvania is a memory that I treasure.
What other active measures do you take to support conservation or WPC’s work?
I promote WPC owned properties and projects in the region via my weekly blog and social media posts.
What might we be surprised to know about you?
I help coach an adult special needs softball team in DuBois Challenger League.
The following lists some of the ways you can volunteer at the Conservancy. We welcome volunteers to help in our community flower gardens, plant trees or maintain our preserves and trails, among other tasks. View a list of our current or upcoming volunteer opportunities and register for one today.