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 Georgia, Coos County, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania Wilds in St. Marys, Pensylvania.
Now, TCF has identified Mon Forest Towns Partnership as one of its “focus regions.” They recently pro- vided 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 more about our organization, sharing resources and partnering with us on future initiatives.
Last Thursday, Cara Rose and Josh Nease, Executive Director of MFTP, Inc., and I 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, Pocahontas Trails and the Convention and Visitors Bureau were planning the IMBA Ride Center at Snowshoe and how a group known as SHARC assisted in turning the Bronze Level ride center to Silver status in 13 months and are now looking for the Gold status, which 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.