County backs grant to convert 40-acre parcel into Copper Falls State Park land

The Ashland County Board voted July 22 to support a conservation grant award enabling the Friends of Copper Falls to donate a 40‑acre, landlocked parcel within Copper Falls State Park. Supervisor Marty VTech introduced the resolution and said the nonprofit purchased the parcel, which lies on the Bad River, and has a tentative award from the Knowles‑Nelson stewardship fund to help pay off the mortgage. The nonprofit’s stated plan is to donate the parcel to the state and incorporate it into Copper Falls State Park. The resolution notes that the parcel lies in the Town of Morse, that the township has already expressed support, and that county support is a required element of the conservation grant process. VTech told the board that two Friends group representatives were present to answer questions; none were raised during the county discussion. A motion to approve the resolution (R07‑2025‑1510) passed on a voice vote. The board’s action completes the local endorsement required to move the Knowles‑Nelson award process forward. Why it matters: The donation would place the parcel under state park stewardship, preserving public access and ecological protections; the county’s endorsement is a formal step required by the grant program.