Press Release: Join Us for the 10th Annual “Power of the Partnership” Celebration

The Annual “Power of the Partnership” Celebration is the South Mountain Partnership’s yearly event to celebrate what makes the South Mountain region so special and the work that makes the region healthier and more sustainable. The event will take place virtually on January 29, 2021 from 8:30 am to 10:00 am – anyone interested in making the South Mountain region a better place to live, work, and play is welcome to participate in this free Zoom event. Register today at www.southmountainpartnership.org.

Connecting portions of Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, and York counties and covering approximately half a million acres and including almost 1 million residents, the South Mountain landscape is one of Pennsylvania’s most unique regions. The region’s most prominent geographic feature is the forested uplands of the South Mountain ridgeline, known locally as Michaux State Forest, but fertile agricultural valleys shape it as well. The South Mountain unites the region and it is the unique convergence of diverse natural and historical elements that makes this landscape so special.

The agenda includes a welcome from Secretary Dunn of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Cumberland County Commissioners, the 9th annual Spirit of the South Mountain Award, announcement of 2020 South Mountain Mini-Grant projects. A panel will discuss the need for preserving and promoting the landscape, why the diverse work of Partners and programs matters, and how the value of landscape conservation benefits the region.

The Spirit of South Mountain Award recognizes individuals, projects, or organizations that have made significant contributions to a positive and sustainable future for the South Mountain landscape. Last year’s awardee was Tonya White, of the Historic Round Barn & Farm Market and Thirsty Farmer Brew Works, for championing the creation of the South Mountain Conservation Landscape in 2007. Mini-Grants are provided through the Pennsylvania Environmental Stewardship Fund, via DCNR.

The event is free, but registration in advance is required by January 26. More details, including last year’s mini-grant winners and a list of all past Spirit of South Mountain awardees, can be found at https://southmountainpartnership.org/initiatives/meetings/power-of-the-partnership.