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Success Stories

Our Legacy of Success

The Foundation is proud of our legacy of work associated with Geauga County's natural spaces. The West Woods and Observatory Park were made possible by the great vision of our past trustees and the tremendous support of the local community. We continue this legacy by acting as a fundraising resource for other community, county, and township projects.

Scenic River Retreat Improvements

In 2019, the Foundation helped fund a new one-mile trail in Munson Township’s Scenic River Retreat. This trail provides access through woodland and wetlands to explore the unique natural features in Munson Township.

Modroo Farms Preservation

  The Foundation for Geauga Parks is proud to support Russell Township Park District in their creation of Geauga County’s newest park, Modroo Farm Preserve. The Foundation made a donation from its unrestricted funds raised in 2016 to support the purchase of this 53-acre historic property. As the Russell Township Park District is finalizing its detailed plans, the Foundation is committed to supporting the District in their efforts to transform this property into a park for everyone to enjoy.  

The West Woods

  The West Woods is a 902-acre park that protects the historic sandstone ledges of Ansel’s Cave, Silver Creek and its watershed, extensive wetlands and mature forests. It is Geauga Park District’s intent to protect this natural area in perpetuity, and utilize the nature center to provide quality nature education.

Nassau Astronomical Observing Station

Nassau Astronomical Observing Station is a primary educational feature of Observatory Park. It was acquired as part of Geauga Park District's purchase of 281 acres from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in October 2008. The station's Warner-Swasey deep-sky 36-inch mirror research telescope was refurbished for educational and research use by the public. With funds raised by the Foundation for Geauga Parks, the Nassau Astronomical Observing Station was restored and reopened to the public in 2017. 

Observatory Park

Observatory Park is a 1,100-acre park in Montville Township owned and operated by the Geauga Park District. Located within the Cuyahoga River watershed, it allows people to explore nature from the ground to the galaxies. Observatory Park is designated by International Dark Sky Association as a Silver Tier International Dark Sky Park - one of 57 Dark Sky Parks in the United States, and the only one located in Ohio. Photo credit: Bruce Bennett