The Clark County Park District and Ohio Climbers Coalition will host the second annual Adopt-a-Crag at the Mad River Gorge and Nature Preserve on Saturday & Sunday, September 29-30. The stewardship event is presented by Black Diamond and includes a partnership with The Access Fund Conservation Team who returns to lend their expertise in helping to develop a premier climbing and hiking area for outdoor enthusiasts.
Saturday is for stewardship, where small work groups will build trails, install signs, pick up trash, cut invasive honeysuckle, and other tasks to enhance the visitor’s experience in the park, while preserving the natural beauty. Volunteers will be rewarded with a dinner provided by Soin Medical Center and beverages by Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company, along with music, vendors, games, raffles, silent auction, a bonfire, and more. The evening celebration will be at George Rogers Clark Park, where special permitted camping will be available for just $5/carload. Shuttle bus transportation is available on Saturday between the two parks thanks to Maiden Lane Church of God.
Sunday is filled with a pancake breakfast by Solid Rock Climbers for Christ, climbing demonstrations and clinics, guided nature hikes, river exploration, SCARPA and Black Diamond shoe demonstrations, and more.
“The Mad River Gorge & Nature Preserve was established through land acquisitions totaling 91 acres, with assistance from a Clean Ohio Conservation Fund grant,” said Carol Kennard, Executive Director.“This unique natural area includes 40-50 foot dolomite rock cliffs, a nature trail along former railroad, access to the Mad River, and an abundance of flora and fauna – something of interest for everyone to explore.”Nearly 30 sponsors joined together to bring the annual event to Clark County. To register yourself or your group, visit ohioclimberscoalition.org. For information on this and other facilities of the Clark County Park District, visit clarkcountyparks.org or call (937) 882-6000.