Trapper Presents Sunday at Crooked Creek ELC

by Jonathan Weaver

For more than 40 years, Paul Murray has trapped near his home in Kittanning.

This weekend, the Pennsylvania Trappers Association District 2 Director will share his skills at the Crooked Creek Environmental Learning Center in Bethel Township.

Starting at 2PM, Murray will present a short film, fur collection and trap collection at the ELC.

“We want to show people why we trap. We need to manage the animals because they can’t go to the hospital – when they get rabies (or) distemper, they spread it,” Murray said. “So, if you control some of the animals, you benefit the species.”

Murray expected a few other trappers in the audience and plans to also discuss advancements in the skill.

“We want to teach people – there are a lot of people out there with a misconception about trapping,” Murray said. “It’s not like it used to be. There are better traps, better equipment.

“Your heart really has to be in it. It’s a lot of work, but you learn a lot,” Murray added. “And every day you get surprises or see stuff people don’t see. I’ve seen black bears at 4AM.”

Environmental Learning Center Program Director Dennis Hawley has known Murray for more than 10 years. He said Murray approached him at the Dayton Fair about scheduling a presentation.

“We’re always looking for programs on any kind of topic,” Hawley said.

District 2 is made up of Armstrong, Butler, Beaver, Clarion and Lawrence Counties.

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