West Virginia Press Association
Davis, W.Va. — The Tucker County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has announced the allocation of a $4,000 Tourism Sponsorship to the Heart of the Highlands Trail System (HOH), a local non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing Tucker County’s recreational potential through trail development and maintenance.
The funds from the Tucker County CVB’s Tourism Sponsorship will directly contribute to supporting the HOH Project Coordinator position. This crucial role oversees the management of a Federal Lands Access Program grant for the construction of the Headwaters Trail, a three-mile stretch connecting the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Canaan Valley Resort State Park. Additionally, the Project Coordinator is responsible for overseeing relationships and grants for trail signage, kiosks, boardwalks and more, covering over 100 miles of hiking and biking trails throughout Tucker County.
In 2023, the HOH accomplished over 500 hours of volunteer maintenance and construction work on the trail system. Celebrating its 13th year, HOH has become an integral part of the community, spearheading 98% of all trail-related efforts utilized by hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. The HOH was founded in 2010, and focuses on connecting, improving, maintaining and promoting trail systems and recreational amenities in and around Tucker County.
“As tourism in Tucker County continues to grow, trail maintenance, accessibility, signage and updated trail maps are critical for visitor safety, enjoyment and the preservation of the environment,” said Lisa Sampson, HOH Board Member. “We are thrilled for the generous sponsorship from the Tucker County CVB to help us with these ongoing projects.”
Jessica Waldo, Executive Director of the Tucker County CVB, encourages local businesses to explore the sponsorship opportunities offered by the CVB, emphasizing the two available programs: Tourism Sponsorship and Marketing Sponsorship.
“The Tourism Sponsorship program is designed to support tourism development and enhance the visitor experience in Tucker County. We are proud to be financial sponsors of organizations like the Heart of the Highlands that play a vital role in our community’s well-being and recreational growth,” said Waldo.
To apply for sponsorship opportunities, visit the Tucker County CVB website for an application form. Interested organizations should submit their forms at least 30 days before the next CVB Board Meeting, held on the second Tuesday of every month. A follow-up presentation is required within 90 days of fund utilization.
For more information, visit gettuckered.com/about.
About the Tucker County Convention and Visitors Bureau
The Tucker County Convention and Visitors Bureau is a nonprofit marketing and sales organization whose mission is to promote tourism and advertise Tucker County as a visitor-friendly travel destination.