Early in its work, Earth Conservancy recognized the need for centrally located playing fields in the Greater Hanover Area community. The organization resolved to turn a mine-scarred wasteland into a site where communities would be able to gather, play sports and enjoy the outdoors. The need was met by the creation of the Greater Hanover Area Recreation Park, a 65-acre park dedicated to youth athletics.  The park is located in Hanover Township, Luzerne County, adjacent to State Route 29 on what was at one time severely mine scarred lands.

The project was initially named in the Earth Conservancy Lower Wyoming Valley Open Space Master Plan.  During the master planning process for this facility, a series of meetings with local stakeholders and elected officials revealed that there was a dire shortage of playing fields, particularly for soccer.  Plans were drafted to address the need and also adding other amenities to the plan, such as a comfort station, basketball and tennis courts, and a walking trail.

Because of the large scope of work, the project was divided into two phases. Phase I of the project was a 15-acre area that includes two multi-purpose athletic fields, a basketball court, parking area.  It was completed in 2002. In May 2004, Earth Conservancy donated the Phase I lands to the Greater Hanover Area Recreation Park Commission (GHARPC), created as a non-profit to assume ownership, operation and maintenance.  This portion of the park currently serves approximately 600 youth playing soccer on a seasonal basis.

The success of this part of the park has created greater demand for more park space. Phase II work included the creation of an additional six (6) multi-sport fields that will accommodate an additional 700-1,500 youth playing a variety of sports throughout much of the year. Phases II, approximately 45 acres, includes two softball fields, a baseball field, a soccer/football field and additional parking areas.  Phase II is finished with the exception of some amenities such as an irrigation system, backstops and benches, which will be added as funding becomes available. The completed park plays host to a variety of youth sports and practice space for some Greater Hanover Area High School sports teams.

The park also includes the Sugar Notch Trail System, detailed on another page, and sits adjacent to the proposed Sugar Notch Residential Area.  This site, which until just a few short years ago, was a mining wasteland that attracted illegal dumpers and provided a secluded place for illicit activity.  It now provides an amenity for families and civic organizations in several area communities. More than 700 youth participate in organized sports on a seasonal basis on the completed portion of the park. The design decision to combine the park, trails and residential area exemplifies Earth Conservancy’s commitment to providing the Lower Wyoming Valley with environmental enhancements while serving the needs of the community.