Lancaster County Conservation District (LCCD) will hold its 50th annual tree seedling sale. The sale features all preordered and prepaid tree seedlings, perennials, shrubs and special wildlife or beauty packs of seedlings available now through Friday, March 8.

The sale list includes evergreen conifers, hardwoods, wildlife food source trees and shrubs, groundcover, and pollinator-friendly perennials. Orders will be ready for walk-in pickup on Friday, April 12, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Farm and Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster.

The majority of trees on the sale list are bare root stock that will be dipped in a root preservative gel. As the trees are seedlings, the sale also offers tree protectors with support stakes designed to protect trees in early growth from stressors and potential damage from deer or rodents. To celebrate the sale's golden anniversary, two unique bundles of trees with features for wildlife and beauty will be available.

To see a pictorial description of all items available, download an order form, or to place an order, visit http://www.lancasterconservation.org and look under About. An order form may also be requested by calling 717-299-5361, ext. 5, by Friday, March 1. Payment is due when orders are placed. Proceeds support education and watershed programs throughout Lancaster County.

The Conservation District has been growing the tree sale since 1974 when trees were picked up in the hallways at Park City Mall. This year, staff members hope to distribute more than 20,000 trees and plants to soils of Lancaster County and beyond.

The LCCD will offer two $1,000 scholarships to Lancaster County high school seniors in 2024. Applications will be accepted from students continuing their education in the 2024-25 school year with the intent of majoring in a curriculum that focuses on natural resources and/or conservation.

Examples of acceptable programs of studies include environmental sciences, wildlife and/or fisheries biology, environmental resource management, or other related programs. Studies must lead to a degree (two-year technical or associate degree or four-year baccalaureate degree).

The completed application must be received in the LCCD office by Thursday, March 28. The basis for the selection will be determined on past performance and activities, current school and community involvement, future purpose and direction, and communication skills. Prior to the final selection, top candidates will be interviewed. An announcement of the successful candidates will be made by mid-May.

The scholarships are made possible through an initial Ann Brown bequest, an annual auction fundraiser at the Conservation District banquet, and contributions from individuals.

For more information and a scholarship application, visit the aforementioned website or contact the office at 717-874-2557.

The Lancaster County Youth Conservation School will take place from Sunday, July 21, through Friday, July 26, celebrating 46 years of education. The program is open to students ages 14 to 16.

The LCCD and local sportsmen's clubs will offer the weeklong summer field school focusing on outdoor activities and the conservation of natural resources. Students will reside at the school with tents and cots to demonstrate low-impact camping at the Northern Lancaster County Fish and Game Protection Association, 180 Forest Road, Denver.

Students will gain knowledge about wildlife and conservation, leadership experience, and communication skills. Topics will include stream restoration, forestry, canoeing, wildlife management, archery, survival, and firearm safety. Students will have the opportunity to meet professionals in various environmental and conservation-related fields and discuss career options with them.

Ninety percent of the tuition fees are covered by local sportsmens clubs and community organizations. Students are responsible for a registration fee upon acceptance to the program.

To receive an application, contact the LCCD at 717-299-5361, ext. 5, or visit the aforementioned website and look under Education. Space is limited, and applications must be submitted by Friday, June 7.