On the weekend of October 18, 2024, fifty dedicated environmentalists, along with family and friends, gathered at Cacapon Resort State Park to celebrate the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy’s Fall Review. The energy was palpable, filled with camaraderie, hope, and commitment to the cause. Our gathering began on a joyful note with music and dancing on Friday night, setting the stage for a powerful day of presentations and reflections on Saturday, all centered around “The State of the Highlands.”
Our speakers presented an inspiring, sometimes sobering, view of our work to protect the Highlands. We were privileged to hear from renowned experts such as Dr. Van Gundy, who provided an in-depth geology lesson that underscored the unique landscape we’re fighting to preserve. Doug Wood and Dr. Eddie Brzostek reminded us of the irreplaceable value of Old Growth Forests and shared updates on efforts to protect and better understand these vital ecosystems.
Judy Rodd spoke passionately about recent successes, including the acquisition of land to protect nearly 10,000 acres of the Blackwater Canyon in the Monongahela National Forest in Tucker County—a testament to the tangible impact of our commitment to protect the Highlands. Leaders from the West Virginia Land Trust, The Nature Conservancy, and West Virginians for Public Lands offered insights into ongoing conservation efforts, highlighting the critical role the Conservancy plays in building partnerships and advancing the conservation movement.
Our discussions extended into the afternoon, with presentations on the historical and current status of Corridor H and the promising rise of ecotourism industries, which foster both environmental and economic resilience. It was an enlightening weekend, filled with learning, encouragement, and a renewed sense of purpose.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to organize and execute our Fall Review. Your dedication and hard work made this gathering a success. To our inspiring speakers, who generously shared their expertise, and to each of our attendees who joined us with enthusiasm and commitment—thank you. Your presence and participation brought this event to life and reaffirmed the strength of our community.
However, just days later, we found ourselves facing an abrupt shift in the political landscape. Emerging threats now place our hard-won victories at risk: proposed environmental deregulation, expanded drilling and leasing on public lands, accelerated land sales to developers, and threats to the clean air and water we’ve long fought to protect. While we await more specifics, we are preparing for a fierce defense. These challenges could unfold quickly, and we must be ready to mobilize.
The legacy of the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy is one of resilience, advocacy, and the unwavering protection of our state’s irreplaceable natural beauty. For over half a century, we have faced similar obstacles, yet we have always persevered—thanks to the dedication of individuals like you, who believe in the vision of a thriving and protected Highlands. Today, we are called once again to step up, and I am confident that, together, we can rise to this challenge.
We need your voices, your energy, and your support more than ever. Together, we must rally our resources and stand united in opposition to policies that threaten what we have all worked so hard to preserve. I urge each of you to commit to this fight—whether through direct involvement, financial contributions, or by spreading the word about our cause. Every contribution matters and strengthens our impact.
Please send your thoughts and comments to me at marilyn.shoenfeld@gmail.com. Donations can be made on our website, where every dollar will go toward the battle to keep West Virginia wild, free, and thriving.
The time to stand up and defend our Highlands is now. Let’s honor our legacy and ensure that these mountains will remain for future generations to enjoy.
See you on the mountains—while they’re still here.
Sincerely,
Marilyn Shoenfeld
WVHC President