“…largest turnout of friends/volunteers to an emergency situation in Ohio State Parks history.”

For Release Immediately - July 6, 2012

CINCINNATI — July 6, 2012 — As a result of the violent storm on Friday night June 29, electric was out in eight Ohio State Parks in southwestern Ohio. On Saturday June 30, the Friends of the Little Miami State Park (FLMSP) mobilized their Adopt-a-Trail volunteers to clear the trail of some 40-50 fallen trees. These volunteers worked throughout the day Saturday and Sunday, clearing the trail so that on Saturday and Sunday Ohio State Parks resources could focus on the eight parks without electric.

On Monday morning the professionals from Ohio State Parks arrived with their chainsaws, chippers, and trucks and were given logistical information allowing them to go directly to those locations on the 50-mile trail where there was a situation which had exceeded the capabilities of the Adopt-a-Trail volunteers on Saturday and Sunday. By Monday evening, 100% of the trail was passable.

Jim Henahan, Ohio State Parks Manager, Community Partnerships Program, was very direct in his assessment of FLMSP’s efforts last weekend:

"I won't hesitate to say that this was indeed the largest turnout of friends/volunteers to an emergency situation in Ohio State Parks history. The friends/volunteers on the Little Miami led the way in responding quickly and efficiently thanks to your group's strong organization and selfless members. Our sincere thanks to the FLMSP for being truly our partners during this crisis and for the outstanding work you performed on our behalf."

"The largest turnout of friends/volunteers to an emergency situation in Ohio State Parks history"
--- that kind of thing doesn't just happen. It’s due to FLMSP having the right organization,
preparation, equipment, motivation, and commitment to making this the premier trail in the area.