Expanding Our Board and Story Themes
D2B – Board Membership and Diversification
In 2018, LHR made concerted efforts to diversify our Board of Directors. New members included John Mailzia (Northwest Bank), Will Hunt (Potter County Planning), Emily Sosch (Potter County Conservation District), and Kenny Kane (Generations Forestry). Looking ahead, we plan to vote in Fritz Lecker (Lumber Industry Family Member) and Mary Alyce Knauff (Forest County Historical Society) in January 2019.
D3A – Expand Story Themes
We developed three stand-up banners to use as storyboards at various events, enhancing our brand recognition. Additionally, we created tourism-based PowerPoint presentations, furthering our outreach efforts across the region.
Enhancing Visitor Experiences and Regional Exploration
D3C- Wayfinding, New Tours, and Wayside Exhibits
Our wayfinding and exploration initiatives included the launch of a totem pole program and new wayside exhibits, such as the Lumber Camp replica in Tionesta and the Visitor Center in Driftwood. These efforts were solely funded by LHR.
D3D/ D5C/ D6E – Create 3 Driving Tours
We now boast five completed and active driving routes, each with a detailed itinerary available online. These tours highlight the historical assets of our region, with more itineraries in development for 2019. Explore these routes at Lumber Heritage Adventure Itineraries.
Tourism Readiness and Wayfinding Signage
D4E – Tourism Readiness
A committee of regional partners has been formed to address tourism readiness, ensuring smooth visitor movement throughout the region.
D5A/B – Wayfinding Signage
Our wayfinding program has been a significant highlight. We have designed signage, selected destinations, and refined program details. Phase I includes one sign in each of the 15 counties, with additional phases planned.
Industry Relationships and Promotion
D6F/ D6H – Lumber Industry Relationships, Promotion
We strengthened our ties with the lumber industry through various meetings, luncheons, and annual events. Promoting the industry via newsletters, website announcements, and mobile marketing remains a key focus.
D6G – Pursue Lumber Industry Projects
Addressing the Spotted Lantern Fly’s impact, we distributed educational materials and held cooperative presentations to raise awareness about this invasive species.
Financial Growth and New Partnerships
D7D – Funds Beyond DCNR Sources
We generated nearly $3,000 from the sales of “Wood Hicks and Bark Peelers.” Despite not securing two grant applications, we engaged with banks for project sponsorships and added a “Donate Now” link to our digital platforms.
D8A – Strengthen and Solicit New Partnerships
We gained 27 new partners in 2018, focusing on financial donations, cooperative advertising, and other marketing programs.
Volunteer Program and Educational Outreach
D8C – Develop a Volunteer Program
We developed a volunteer form and several volunteer projects, aiming to secure an intern to assist with database and partner relations projects.
Educational Outreach and Presentations
We participated in numerous events, meetings, and presentations, furthering our mission to promote the lumber heritage of our region.
Grant Projects and Partner Highlights
Throughout 2018, LHR supported several impactful projects, including the installation of a wayfinding exhibit at the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum, a seasonal boat dock in Lock Haven, historical interpretative panels in Jefferson County, and many more.
We also welcomed new partners across various sectors, enhancing our collaborative network and regional impact.
Looking Ahead to 2019
As we reflect on a year of substantial progress, we are excited about the future. With new projects, partnerships, and initiatives on the horizon, LHR remains committed to preserving and promoting the rich lumber heritage of our region.
For more details on our accomplishments and plans, visit our website or follow us on social media @LumberHeritageRegion.