Athens Conservancy is the recipient of two recent grants that will fund efforts to celebrate Appalachian Ohio and connect individuals with the benefits of time spent in nature.
Athens Conservancy has received a $4,420 grant from the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio’s Cause Connector. These funds will support the Conservancy’s “Keep Finding Your Way Outdoors” project, and will encourage residents and visitors to explore the outdoors, get to know the Conservancy’s preserves, and learn about the natural world and its deep connection to all of us.
The multi-faceted project will center on trailheads at the Baker Preserve and Cucumbertree Trail, where new kiosks will be equipped with informational display cases. Offering a sense of place for walkers, hikers, and families, the cases will house maps and informational postings that change with the seasons.
The Conservancy has received a seed grant of $595 from Ohio’s Winding Road to help fund a project that will spotlight our beautiful lands and contribute to the unique spirit and environment of Appalachian Ohio.
By enlisting the talents of a regional, emerging artist, plans are to create unique and highly distinctive and useful products that celebrate “Spectacular Appalachian Ohio.” These items will raise the visibility of our preserved lands and trails, which are open to the public, and showcase the area’s natural beauty, culture and creativity.
“We are delighted to receive this important support to embark on endeavors that spotlight the natural world around us, and encourage individuals and families to enjoy time in nature,” says Christine Fahl, president of the board of Athens Conservancy. “Equally important to us is celebrating our spectacular Appalachian lands, as well as supporting the work of a local, emerging artist.”
Athens Conservancy is a nonprofit land trust that strives to protect special spaces and wild places for people to explore and enjoy, maintain healthy ecosystems, preserve water quality, protect biodiversity, and nurture natural habitats. The Conservancy’s lands in Athens County and surrounding areas are mostly forested and include ridge tops, stream bottoms, dramatic rock formations and beautiful vistas. The lands in our preserves and conservation easements encompass nearly 2,900 acres, with more than1,700 acres open to the public to explore. For more, visit athensconservancy.org.
The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO) is a regional community foundation serving the 32 counties of Appalachian Ohio. With the mission of creating opportunities for Appalachian Ohio’s citizens and communities by inspiring and supporting philanthropy, FAO partners with donors, nonprofits, and communities across the region. By growing philanthropic resources, convening partners around issues of importance, and making grants, FAO is working to ensure Appalachian Ohio is a region abundant in possibility.
Ohio’s Winding Road is a locally driven economic development initiative in Appalachian Ohio, specifically in the Hocking and Muskingum River Valleys. This includes Morgan, Athens, Perry, Hocking, Fairfield, Vinton, Meigs, Washington, and Muskingum counties. Through its regional brand and network, it provides unifying stories about the vibrant future of the region, where pride of place and stewardship are strong values.