Originally, the park was designed for recreational use with plans for baseball fields, playgrounds, campsites, etc., but was never developed as such due to wet soils and drainage problems. Coming to realize that we cannot always change nature to suit our wishes, the Lawrence County Commissioners have decided to work with nature and allow the park to remain as natural as possible, while opening it back up for public use.

The Lawrence Conservation District was appointed to oversee the development of West Park as a Nature Center. Assessments including the study of existing wildlife, water systems, road systems, forestry, soils and vegetation determined development constraints and priorities.

To date, improvements made to the park include hiking trails, wetland observation deck, informational kiosks, wildlife gardens, bluebird nesting boxes, composting restroom, watershed model, and paving of existing roadways and parking lot. We are planning construction of a shelter to accommodate students for outdoor classes and field trips in the near future. As the Lawrence Conservation District's environmental education program continues to expand, the park will become an indispensable tool for both the district and the county's educators.

Many groups and individuals have shown enthusiastic support for this project. Area schools, businesses, government leaders, and individuals have pledged assistance in the areas of financing and development to make West Park an area in which Lawrence County can really be proud.

Directions to West Park:
From the intersection of Route 422/60 and Route 224 (near Wal-Mart) take Route 224 West for 0.8 miles and bear to the right onto Old Youngstown Road. Go 0.7 miles. West Park is on the right (just across from the New Castle Airport).

Located approximately four miles west of the City of New Castle, West Park nestles quietly amid the bustle of rapidly developing Union Township. The one hundred eight-acre, county-owned park boasts beautiful cut-stone entrances, lovely meadows brimming with wildflowers, stands of mature trees, a small stream system, large wooded areas and several acres of wetlands. Along with these, come many species of wildlife -- birds such as finches, red-winged blackbirds, mallards and wood ducks; mammals such as deer, rabbits and red and gray squirrels; and small reptiles and insects such as frogs, newts, dragonflies and butterflies of all varieties.

 

Phase III:  Maintenance of the grass stand.  This will be completed by periodic mowing in one area and controlled burning in the second area.

Project Participants include: PA Game Commission and Union Township Volunteer Fire Department.

 

 

Union Township Volunteer Fire Department. 

Controlled Burning Practice.