Fontenelle Forest receives commendation from The Garden Club of America in recognition of a century of conservation, education and research
Photo above: Ann Hosford, President-elect of the Loveland Garden Club (right) presents a Club Conservation Commendation from The Garden Club of America to Fontenelle Forest Executive Director, Merica Whitehall (left).
Fontenelle Forest receives commendation from The Garden Club of America in recognition of a century of conservation, education and research
In September, Ann Hosford of the Loveland Garden Club, stopped by the Nature Center with an unexpected and exciting surprise – a plaque honoring Fontenelle Forest with a Club Conservation Commendation from The Garden Club of America (GCA), a national leader in the fields of horticulture, conservation, and civic improvement.
The Loveland Garden Club, a member club of the GCA, nominated Fontenelle Forest for the award “in recognition of a century of diligent preservation, environmental education, research and restoration of the history and habitat of Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods.”
Founded in 1913, Fontenelle Forest is one of Nebraska’s oldest conservation organizations and one of the largest private nature centers in the nation. The first land purchase was made in 1920 of approximately 360 acres, so 2020 marks the 100-year anniversary of that historic event. Today Fontenelle Forest encompasses over 2,100 acres of forest, prairie and wetlands in the geographically significant Loess Hills.
“I can’t think of a more fitting way to wrap up the 100-year anniversary of our first land purchase than to be recognized with a commendation from The Garden Club of America for 100 years of conservation, education and research,” said Merica Whitehall, executive director of Fontenelle Forest. “We are truly honored and thankful that the Loveland Garden Club nominated Fontenelle Forest for this award.”
About The Garden Club of America and Loveland Garden Club:
Founded in 1913, GCA is a volunteer nonprofit organization with over 200 member clubs in 12 zones and approximately 18,000 members across the country. The Loveland Garden Club, located in Zone XI, has 54 members who actively volunteer in Omaha and surrounding communities.
The Loveland Garden Club is committed to stimulating the love of gardening through good horticultural and environmental practices, both at the private and public level. They promote the cultivation, preservation and development of the urban landscape through philanthropic projects and partnerships.
A huge thank you to the Loveland Garden Club and The Garden Club of America for honoring Fontenelle Forest with this commendation!