Park Venture Morgan County Explored by Over 400 People
Since August 1, 2021, The Community Foundation of Morgan County (CFMC), Mooresville Public Library, and Morgan County Public Library released a new and free extravaganza, Park Venture Morgan County. Park Venture Morgan County showcased the natural beauty of Morgan County by highlighting our 13 parks and 2 state forests.
This county-wide, community event promoted state forests, city, and county parks as well as the smaller, lesser-known neighborhood parks across the county. Over 400 families, and individuals of all ages, registered via each libraries’ new app, Beanstack. This program is new to both library systems and allowed Mooresville Public Library and Morgan County Public Libraries to collaborate by creating activity challenges and award badges for challenges completed. Those that completed all the challenges by visiting 5 or more parks, will be entered into the grand prize drawings, which have been generously donated by our parks, libraries, and CFMC.
Many participants did not realize there were 13 parks and greenspaces in Morgan County and felt it was a treat to find new places to explore. Henry S., a third grader, visited Burkhart Creek and looked for geodes while creek stomping. Amy L. found the old tree they carved initials on from high school. Britany J. picked up her girls from summer camp at Jimmy Nash Park and they ranted about the fun they had. As a mom, she is grateful we have a clean safe park like Jimmy Nash for her children to play. Jacquie W. commented saying, “Loved going to our local park and this year we were able to have my daughter’s 16th birthday here! We rented a shelter house and afterwards all the kids played on the playground and walked around the pond.”
During Park Venture Morgan County’s two-month program, Jimmy Nash Park was the most visited park in Martinsville, followed by a close second, Pioneer Park in Mooresville. Over 20 families and individuals also visited Morgan County Veteran’s Memorial. Established in 2010, this memorial is thoughtfully constructed to honor veterans from early wars to our most current. Veterans’ names are emblazoned on the black marble surfaces commanding honor and respect for those who have fought for our freedom and made many sacrifices. Likewise, Morgan-Monroe State Forest was visited by many. Our second largest state forest in Indiana, the 24,000-acre forest boasts 8 hiking trails, a hike-bike trail, three forest lakes, primitive camping, picnicking, shelters, hobby gold panning with a license, and hunting during seasons with a valid hunting license issued by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
CFMC, Mooresville Public Library, and Morgan County Public Library are thankful for community leaders who recognize the importance of outdoor recreation, community involvement, and each park’s support and inclusion. We are so fortunate to have such a wealth of natural areas to enjoy!
