PPL will begin construction this summer of a $1 million environmental education center at Lake Wallenpaupack, using a $500,000 matching state grant announced Thursday (4/13) by Lt. Gov. Mark Schweiker.

The 7,400-square-foot Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center will enhance PPL's environmental education efforts in the Pocono region.

The building will house a 160-seat auditorium, a classroom, science lab, nature store, library and exhibits to accommodate a growing interest in the lake and the woodlands, wildlife and recreation it supports.

The center will be constructed adjacent to PPL's Lake Wallenpaupack Conference Center in Hawley, Pa. It will accommodate school groups and public programs.

"With this investment, the Ridge Administration is proud to partner with PPL, as well as leaders in Pike and Wayne counties, in making this state-of-the-art environmental education center at Lake Wallenpaupack a reality," Lt. Gov. Schweiker said.

Schweiker was joined by state Sen. Charles Lemmond, R-Pike, and PPL officials in announcing the grant. County and local leaders also attended the 2 p.m. news conference at Lake Wallenpaupack.

"PPL has built its business and reputation as a steward of the environment," said Lynn Ratzell, head of environmental management for PPL. "These facilities represent the next chapter of that commitment, and the next level of our work in environmental education."

The center will include nature and historical exhibits to celebrate the ecology, anthropology and rich history of the Lake Wallenpaupack region, Ratzell said.

Tens of thousands of people visit the 5,700-acre lake year-round. It was created by PPL in 1926, and provides water power for the company's Wallenpaupack hydroelectric plant.

In addition to its environmental value, Lake Wallenpaupack also helps sustain the economy of Wayne and Pike counties in northeastern Pennsylvania.

"This new center will further strengthen the relationship we have with our neighboring communities, which draw many benefits from this magnificent lake," said Bob Grey, senior vice president, general counsel and secretary of PPL. "It recognizes PPL's commitment to environmental stewardship in concert with the production of electricity."

As part of its commitment to the environment, PPL sets aside thousands of acres of land across Pennsylvania for recreation, conservation and ecological study and offers year-round environmental education programs.