Groundbreaking Ceremony Commences for Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center at Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park

Today marked a significant milestone for Ashland County as community members gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center at the Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park. The event, held at 10 AM, was a moment of celebration and anticipation for what promises to be a transformative addition to the county's outdoor landscape.

The Tom Kruse Wildlife Conservation Park spans approximately 80 acres, boasting diverse wildlife habitats, meadows, wooded areas, and a tranquil pond. Situated in Montgomery Township, the park offers a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and will provide public access for various recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and nature study.

In his opening address, Ashland County Park District Director, Eric Schneider, expressed his excitement about the project's potential to deepen the community's connection with the outdoors. He highlighted the numerous benefits of outdoor education centers, emphasizing their role in promoting academic excellence, physical health, mental well-being, and environmental stewardship.

The center is named in honor of Davy McClure, a beloved figure in the community known for his dedication to public service and conservation efforts. Park Commissioner Robert DeSanto paid tribute to McClure's legacy, describing him as a larger-than-life personality with a passion for mentoring youth and preserving nature. McClure's dream of establishing a learning center where people of all ages could immerse themselves in nature is now becoming a reality through the Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center.

Christopher McClure, son of David McClure, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the community for honoring his father's legacy and shared his excitement for the future impact of the Outdoor Education Center. "Today is a very special day for me and my family," remarked Christopher. "To see my father's dream come together is truly heartwarming."

The ceremony also acknowledged the generous contributions of donors who have supported the project. The Archer family was recognized for their significant donation, which included a $250,000 matching grant that provided crucial momentum for the initiative. Other major donors, including the Ferguson family, the Ashland Elks, the Ashland Community Foundation, and many others, were also praised for their invaluable support.

Local businesses and organizations, such as Simonson Construction, Jamison Well and Drilling, Return Polymers, and Sarver Paving, were commended for their in-kind contributions to the project, highlighting the collaborative effort that has made the Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center possible.

The ceremony concluded with a symbolic groundbreaking, signaling the start of construction for the center. Community members, volunteers, donors, and officials joined together to commemorate this momentous occasion, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Ashland County's commitment to environmental education and conservation.

As the Davy McClure Outdoor Education Center takes shape, it is poised to become a beacon of learning, discovery, and appreciation for the natural world, ensuring that Davy McClure's vision continues to inspire future generations for years to come.