HARRISBURG -- The Pennsylvania Departments of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP)and Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)announced the agencies' Recovery in Nature initiative, which will run throughout September in conjunction with National Recovery Month.

Recovery in Nature is designed to remind Pennsylvanians of the healing power of nature - particularly for individuals in recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD) - and encourage all Pennsylvanians to take advantage of trails and waterways across the commonwealth. The goal of National Recovery Month is to come together, celebrate individuals in recovery, and offer hope to those who are struggling with SUD. It reinforces the positive message that behavioral health is essential to overall health, prevention works, treatment is effective, and people can and do recover from the disease of addiction.

All recommended locations are recommended for Pennsylvanians to take advantage of throughout the entire month of September. That includes Region 6, which has Somerset as well as Beaver, Butler, Armstrong, Indiana, Cambria, Washington, Westmoreland, Greene and Fayette, the Copper Kettle Trail, Laurel Hill State Park, is a crushed stone bike trail is about 1 mile and meanders along the western shoreline of Laurel Hill Lake. It connects Old Mill Picnic Area and the beach area, provides excellent fishing access, and allows visitors to explore the park while bicycling or walking.

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"We know that for those in recovery from a substance use disorder, spending time in nature can be a powerful tool in their journey and provide a boost in both mental and physical health," said DDAP Secretary Latika Davis-Jones. "DDAP is proud to partner with DCNR to spotlight the natural beauty and opportunities Pennsylvania has to offer, especially within our regional recovery hubs during such a meaningful time of year."

There are nine regional recovery hubs, funded by DDAP, across the state. The hubs are designed to embed, expand, and promote a Recovery-Oriented System of Care, which is a coordinated network of community-based services and supports that is person-centered, with the ultimate goal of improving the health, wellness, and quality of life for individuals in recovery from SUD.

DDAP and DCNR have identified a corresponding trail or waterway within a state park or trail system near each regional recovery hub. A number of the trails are included in Gov. Josh Shapiro'sPennsylvania: The Great American Getaway tourism campaign.