Request seeks grant to help expand preserve

The township park board knows the foundation request is a 'long shot.'
By VIRGINIA ROSS
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
NORTH LIMA -- Beaver Township has asked a nonprofit institution for financial backing to help the township expand borders of the nature preserve area off state Route 165.
Scott Conway, township park board chairman, said he recently received word that the George Gund Foundation is reviewing the township's request. The township is looking at acquiring the property adjacent to the nature preserve area to enlarge the preserve site.
Earlier this year park board members met with the owner of the property to inquire about his plans for the 35-acre parcel, the former Wildwood Lake recreation area.
Conway said the township would need to secure funding before a purchase proposal could be presented to the owner. Township officials have declined to provide the property owner's name.
Conway said if the George Gund Foundation were to provide financial support, the money would be used make the purchase proposal.
"It's all very preliminary. We haven't negotiated anything," he said. "Right now we're trying to see what funds are available and what our options might be."
About the foundation
George Gund, former chairman of the Cleveland Trust Co., established the foundation in 1952. The Cleveland-based foundation is a private nonprofit institution that provides funds to various programs. Grants are made quarterly in the areas of education, human services, economic and community development, environment and arts. Foundation commitments to date have totaled more than $455 million.
Conway said the township is continuing to look for other financial aid through various grants and resources.
"It's my understanding the Gund Foundation mostly helps efforts in the Cleveland area. So we know this might be a long shot, but it's worth a try," he said. "Maybe they'll like our idea and be willing to give us a try. It doesn't hurt to ask."
Bought land two years ago
The township bought its 80 acres off state Route 165, just west of New Buffalo Road and east of the former Wildwood Lake recreation area, with a $150,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Public Works Clean Ohio Conservation Fund two years ago. Ohio Edison Co. had owned the property.
Goals for the nature preserve include the establishment of nature trails and open-air classrooms. The park board recently established Friends of the Park, a group of volunteers who help with various projects at the nature preserve and township parks.
Information about Friends of the Park and park board efforts is available by calling (330) 549-9552.