Despite the frozen surface and snow-covered landscape, crews at Shenango River Lake arepreparing to welcome visitors for the upcoming spring and summer recreational season.

The lake, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, attracts approximately 750,000 visitors yearly for camping and water sports. To ensure a smooth experience, much of the necessary maintenance and improvement work is conducted during the winter months.

"There is no such thing as an 'off-season' at Shenango," said Bill Spring, resource manager at Shenango River Lake.

Recent projects include the construction of a dome-shaped greenhouse, where park rangers are cultivating seedlings to enhance the area's native ecosystem.

"One of our main missions here is environmental stewardship," said park ranger Aaron Haflich. "The greenhouse provides cost savings by allowing us to grow our own native flora, rather than purchasing mature plants and trees."

These plants are intended to attract pollinators and bolster local wildlife populations.

In addition, maintenance workers have been renovating bathroom and shower facilities at campsites, which receive roughly 5,000 reservations annually. Upgrades include new insulation, fixtures, windows, retiled walls, and durable epoxy floors.

"I'm truly honored to work with a dedicated group of professionals," Spring said. "The team is committed to improving the visitor's experience."

The bathroom upgrades are designed for increased durability and easier cleaning, reducing the need for future costly repairs. To date, three bathroom facilities have been completed, and work is ongoing at a shower house.

Crews recently addressed an unexpected waterline break, revealing a fractured sewer line. Spring commended the team's ability to adapt and handle unforeseen challenges.

The same maintenance crew responsible for the waterline and bathroom renovations also constructed the 32-foot-diameter greenhouse.

Rangers plan to add a thermal pond to introduce aquatic species and enhance the lake's habitat. They also intend to offer volunteer opportunities and educational programs at the greenhouse.

"Our park rangers consistently focus on seasonal goals that support our recreation and natural resource management initiatives," Spring said.