Nearly fifty members of the Knox County community came together on March 13th, 2025 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Owl Creek Conservancy and the ribbon cutting on our new office in downtown Mount Vernon.
Located in the Blue Ash Plaza at 314 South Main Street, the downtown location increases accessibility and visibility, and creates a bright and welcoming environment for Owl Creek’s staff to continue the work of maintaining Knox County’s rural identity, meet with community partners, and advise property owners and community members on conservation easements. The new space boasts two offices and a shared atrium, plus accessible off-street parking.
The ceremony, led by the Knox County Chamber of Commerce, began with a welcome and introductions by their Executive Director, Carol Grubaugh, who was flanked by other COC staffers bearing a red ribbon and ceremonial scissors. A number of dignitaries from the State of Ohio and Mount Vernon were on hand to offer congratulations and commendations:
- Commendation from the Ohio Auditor of State Office, presented by Regional Liaison Scott Brown on behalf of Ohio Auditor Keith Faber. Brown spoke on Owl Creek’s efforts to preserve Knox County’s rural character and congratulated the organization on the 25th anniversary.
- Commendation from the 136th General Assembly of Ohio, presented by State Representative Mark Hiner of Ohio House District 98, with congratulations on the 25th anniversary and new office. Hiner also presented Amy Henricksen of the Philander Chase Conservancy with a similar commendation to commemorate their 25th anniversary, which is also this year.
- Proclamation from the office of US Congressman Troy Balderson (Ohio District 12), presented by a representative of his office, with congratulations and anticipation for the future.
- Statement from Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr, presented by Todd Hill, praising Owl Creek’s partnership with the City of Mount Vernon and engagement with the community
Owl Creek Conservancy Executive Director Vicki Kauffman spoke briefly prior to cutting the ribbon, expressing gratitude to the community and her hopes for continued partnership with local organizations and community members. With members of the Owl Creek Board of Directors looking on, Kauffman cut the ribbon and was showered with both confetti and applause before inviting attendees into the new office for refreshments and conversation.
All of us at Owl Creek would like to offer a heartfelt “thank you” to everyone in the community who helped move us toward this goal over the last 25 years. We simply could not have achieved our goals without your support. We deeply value all your contributions, hard work, and most importantly, your dedication to preserving the natural beauty and agricultural identity of our beloved Knox County.
Note: A video of the ceremony and additional photos from the day are available on our Facebook and Instagram accounts.