NRAC Clean Ohio Project Awards

NRAC Clean Ohio Project Awards for 2024

The Clean Ohio and the National Resource Assistance Council District 15 awarded funding for four projects in the Round 19 grant round that will conserve nearly 990 acres of land in southern Ohio, and provide new public hiking trails and access to a variety of natural landscapes.

  1. Mudsoc Woods project in Gallia County

“The Mudsoc Woods project in Gallia County will establish an 870-acre nature preserve adjacent to Wayne National Forest. The preserve will protect approximately 16 miles of waterways, rare sandstone cave formations, and habitat for at least three state-listed plant species. The preserve supports premier habitat for breeding birds and other species that require large, undisturbed forests. A new 2.4-mile-long public hiking trail will allow visitors to explore Mudsoc Woods’ rugged sandstone rock outcroppings and intact upland forests.” – Andrea Jaeger, Director of Land Acquisition, Arc of Appalachia

  1. Beaver Wetlands project in Gallia County 

Also located in Gallia County, the Beaver Wetlands project will create a new 86-acre preserve adjacent to Wayne National Forest. The site protects a beautiful wetland that supports many species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. It is located upstream from the historic Gallia Charcoal Furnace, which manufactured iron beginning in 1847. The project will include the installation of a public hiking trail with interpretive signage to educate visitors about the ecological significance of wetlands, as well as the area’s cultural history.” – Andrea Jaeger, Director of Land Acquisition, Arc of Appalachia

  1. Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve in Scioto County

“The Arc’s Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve in Scioto County will be expanded with the acquisition of a 4.76-acre tract, which will serve as a trailhead parking lot for a new 2.25-mile-long public hiking trail. This trail will provide access to cultural remnants from the area’s historic charcoal production, iron ore extraction, and clay mining industries, interspersed with natural features such as impressive rock outcrops and overhangs. Additionally, the trailhead will provide the opportunity for visitors to experience breathtaking firefly displays each summer.

Pickett Run Wetlands and Woods, Highlands Nature Sanctuary in Highland County

The Arc’s final project, Pickett Run Wetlands and Woods will protect nearly 30 acres within the Highlands Nature Sanctuary in Highland County. Funding for this project will help restore wetland habitat and preserve shoreline along Rocky Fork Creek. A 2.3-mile-long public hiking trail will take visitors through the Sad Song Region of the Highlands Nature Sanctuary, an area known for its limestone cliffs and rock outcrops sheltered within the largest block of unbroken forest in the region.” – Brent Charette, Director of Land Stewardship, Arc of Appalachia