As the name implies, The Conservation Fund (TCF) is another potential funding source helping to move the recreation economy forward in Marlinton and Pocahontas County. The TCF believes in conservation that makes economic sense.
TCF is becoming more active in supporting initiatives that are “Activating the Natural Resource Economy” in areas such as the Okefenokee Region in southern GA, Coos County, NH, and PA Wilds in St. Marys, PA. Now, TCF has identified Mon Forest Towns Partnership as one of their “focus regions”. Recently, they provided funding for the design of the Marlinton Downtown Trailhead and have committed funds to support a portion of the implementation of the project. They have also expressed interest in getting to know our organization more, sharing resources, and partnering with us on future initiatives.
Last Thursday, along with Cara Rose and Josh Nease, Executive Director of MFTP, Inc., we met with two representatives from TCF who were eager to hear how the Town has embraced the recreation economy and the steps that have moved us to this point. I love telling others how the vacant lot committee grew into the community plan that first provided the concept and finally the construction of Discovery Junction. During which time, Poca Trails and CVB were planning the IMBA Ride Center at Snowshoe and how a group known as SHARC has assisted in turning the Bronze Level ride center to Silver status in thirteen months and are now looking for the Gold status, that the completion of the 27-mile Monday Lick Trail will provide.
The Downtown Marlinton Trailhead, at the Verizon Cell Tower, will provide the “WOW-factor” that all of this work and sacrifice deserves.