DRPWS Update

On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, around noon, there was an accident involving a propane truck crossing the bridge into Dorothy Rider Pool Wildlife Sanctuary (3701 Orchid Place, Emmaus, Pa). The bridge collapsed while the propane truck was crossing the bridge to enter the property.

There were no injuries, and there was no environmental damage. The vehicle was removed from the property later that evening. Wildlands staff remained on site to work with emergency personnel.

Sanctuary Access & Programs

Dorothy Rider Pool Wildlife Sanctuary is closed until further notice. The public is encouraged to explore our 13 other nature preserves.

There is no public access to the Sanctuary at this time.

Community and environmental education programs scheduled to take place at the Sanctuary are being handled case-by-case and registrants will receive direct correspondence from education staff.

Access Restoration Plans

The collapsed bridge has been fully removed from DRPWS and the Little Lehigh Creek as it flows through the Sanctuary.

We’re currently evaluating temporary bridge options to potentially install prior to year-end.

Design and permitting for a new, permanent bridge are underway. This future bridge, anticipated for 2026, will ensure safer pedestrian access and introduce important environmental improvements to better manage high-water flow events.

Summer Camp at the Sanctuary

Amid advancing plans to restore public access as quickly as possible, we successfully hosted 10 sold-out weeks of summer camp with modifications (thanks to your support!).

Summer Camp continued as scheduled at the Sanctuary with modifications for convenient drop off/pick up locations and bus transportation to the Sanctuary while it remains closed to the public. Camp Olympic Park in Emmaus and Wild Cherry Park in Macungie were used to support these modifications.

Thank You, Emergency Responders

On behalf of our board and staff, I want to express my deep gratitude to the fire, police, all emergency personnel, township, local and state officials, Yocum Towing & Recovery, and everyone who responded quickly and remained at the scene to ensure the safety of the community, those involved, and the natural environment.

We’ve received many messages asking how to help Wildlands at this moment.

Keeping our mission alive for the community always has, and always will, rely upon the community’s support. This truth is no different at this critical time.  

The Sanctuary is a local treasure, and it’s clear the community understands the gravity of living disconnected from it right now. Access to nature and programming is being impacted.

To this end, we encourage you explore our 13 other nature preserves. These special places are made possible by you, our giving community. Together, we keep these precious destinations open, safe, and accessible for all who call our region home.