New Grant Funding O’Bannon Creek Nature Trail Improvements

GOSHEN TOWNSHIP, OHIO - The Clermont County General Health District, in collaboration with the Goshen Local School District, has received a $25,000 grant to make improvements to the O’Bannon Creek Nature Trail in Goshen Township.  Access to the trail is near the Marr Education Center at Cook Farm, located southeast of the High School on Goshen Road; the grant will enable a handicapped portion of the trail to be constructed.

“Clermont County was one of only two Ohio projects selected for funding, through Hamilton County Public Health as part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Strategic Alliance for Health program,” said Clermont General Health District Assistant Health Commissioner Julianne Nesbit.  The grant was a result of collaborative efforts with the Clermont Coalition for Activity and Nutrition also known as Clermont CAN. Clermont Can’s mission is to create opportunities and promote action through member organizations to support the coalition’s vision to “Be Active, Eat Smart.”  According to Davey Brown, Goshen High School science teacher, “The trail will not only be used as a place for physical activity but also as an outdoor laboratory.  Goshen students have the opportunity to become active learners and students with disabilities will soon be able to take advantage of the area along with their peers.”

Grant funds can be utilized for materials, but not for actual construction of the trail. The project will involve making improvements to all existing trails including grading and drainage, placement of signs and mile markers, and making a portion of the trail handicapped accessible.  Goshen Schools needs volunteers to help with the actual construction of the trail as the grant can only pay for materials. Improvements are expected to be completed by August 2011.

The O’Bannon Creek Nature Trail is open to the community and is currently used for Goshen schools athletics and other outdoor activities.  Parking for those interested in walking the trail is available at Goshen High School.

Pictured above: This trail will soon become a handicapped-accessible portion of the O’Bannon Creek Nature Trail