November Meeting

The next meeting is planned for November 12th at 7PM at Marzoni’s Altoona.

Angie Spagnoli, DCNR Bureau of Forestry’s Aquatic Ecologist, Director and Vice President of LJRA

This presentation will provide an overview of aquatic invasive species, such as Asian Clams, New Zealand Mud Snails, Rusty Crayfish, Didymo and the threats they pose to the Little Juniata River and its native aquatic communities, and practical steps individuals can take to prevent their introduction and spread. Presented from the perspective of DCNR Bureau of Forestry’s Aquatic Ecologist, the discussion will highlight prevention strategies, early detection, and responsible recreational practices to help protect the ecological integrity of the Little Juniata River and its watershed.

Veeder-Root cleans up along the river

The Veeder-Root company from Duncansville held a fall cleanup on Saturday, September 12. 15 volunteers cleaned 4 different sections along the river from Spruce Creek to Tyrone. They have conducted this clean-up for several years. We thank them for their dedication to the Little Juniata River and the surrounding area. Any group interested in having a cleanup should contact Bill.

 

September Meeting

The next meeting of the LJRA will be held Sept 10th at 7PM. The meeting will be held at Marzoni’s of Altoona. A full agenda will be published when available.

We will have a special presentation by Kathryn Blake of the Juniata College Museum of Art. In Spring 2027 the Juniata College Museum of Art will present an exhibition titled Fly Tying: Art & Observation. This unique presentation features art and historic materials from the American Museum of Fly Fishing (Manchester, VT) and research from Juniata College Aquatics & Fisheries program. Juniata students Molly Silvis and Sarah Messimer, with museum director Kathryn Blake, will introduce this project and discuss the many ways to get involved.

August Meeting, Thursday 13th

The Little Juniata River Association’s public meeting is scheduled for 7pm at Marzonis Restaurant on Thursday, August 13th 

Agenda items include:

  • River squatters, Car in the river
  • False alarm on Sandy Run
  • Possible pollution event reported. We are awaiting water samples
  • Baker Lane washout project status – Angie Spagnoli
  • Environmental film festival on September 12, 2026.  -“Pollution to Solution: 86,000 miles of PA Waterways.”
  • Fishing Easements status and progress on a new parking area near Barree.

New Director

Bill Strockbine was nominated and appointed to complete the term vacated by outgoing Director Scott Kavanagh. Bill will also take on the role of treasurer. You can read about Bill here.

Scott Kavanagh served as director from 2018-2026, also serving as treasurer. He was an essential member of the board, active in many of the activities of the LJRA. He will be sorely missed. Scott is relocating to VA to be closer to his family and we wish him well.

NES&L named 2026 Friend of the River

New Enterprise Stone and Lime was selected for the 2026 Friend of the River Award at the yearly banquet held June 13th. Mike Clark, VP Operations and Stephanie Stewart, Geo-Environmental Specialist  received the award, a custom made fishing clock. NES&L deserves this award because they have consistently supported LJRA in our efforts to improve water quality and reduce sediment. They opened up fishing access at the Pemberton area and made sizable donations to cover the cost of the insurance policy the last two years. NES&L has provided stone and other materials at a steep discount for many LJRA stream projects. 

2026 River Bank Clean-up

On April 11th more than 150 volunteers cleaned 20 miles of riverbank and pullouts of 50 tires and one and half rolloff dumpsters of trash.

Thanks to Burgemeiers Hauling for donating the dumpsters and waiving disposal fees,  the Spruce Creek Church for a great hot lunch and Tastykake for treats.

 

A gallery of pictures can be found here