While gentle snow fell to the ground, leaders from the EPA and the French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust gathered around the table to sign an agreement that had been more than four years in the making. This moment marked the official protection of Camp Innabah’s land, ensuring that this sacred space will be preserved for generations to come.

For nearly a century, it has been a place where generations of campers have come to build friendships, challenge themselves, and grow in faith. This conservation easement ensures that Innabah’s natural beauty and history will be protected from development, allowing future generations to experience the same sense of peace and connection that so many have found here.

For four and a half years, the French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust worked with members of the Board of Camping and Retreat Ministry, conference trustees, and camping staff to secure over $1,613,000 in funding. This included $861,000 from the Chester County Preservation Partnership Program, $500,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Bureau of Recreation and Conservation through the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, and $252,000 from the East Vincent Township Supervisors.

This effort was made possible by the dedication of many individuals and organizations working together. The funding for this conservation easement was provided to the EPAUMC Conference and placed into a fund managed by the Camping and Retreat Ministry Board, which oversees Innabah, Gretna Glen, Pocono Plateau, and Carson Simpson Farm. These funds will be invested for the long-term sustainability of Camp & Retreat Ministry, ensuring they continue to thrive for generations to come.

The conservation easement, approved at the 2024 Annual Conference, represents more than just a signed document. It is the result of years of hard work, dedication, and a shared vision for preserving Camp Innabah’s land and mission. This agreement ensures that its natural beauty and rich history will remain protected for future generations to enjoy.

This milestone was made possible by the vision and leadership of many dedicated lay leaders, especially Hosea Latshaw, a member of the Camp and Retreat Ministry. Latshaw, a retired environmental engineer, brought both education and experience to the project. “Hosea Latshaw was the visionary behind the project,” shared Dawn Taylor Storm, Director of Connectional Ministries for EPA & GNJ. “Even when we were denied, this was our second application, Hosea didn’t lose faith or hope in the possibility.”

Latshaw was thrilled to see the years of work come to fruition. “It’s a really good thing for the camp. The land will be restricted from development, and that’s really good for such a special place. French & Pickering have good local interest. They’ve been at this since 1967. They will bring technical assistance and guidance on how to improve the habitat and biology for fish. They’ll be wonderful partners in caring for this tract of land.”

Indeed, the easement is just the next step in the ongoing partnership between Camp Innabah and French & Pickering. The goal is not just to preserve the land, but to actively enhance its habitat, ensuring that the local ecosystem thrives. “French Creek is very highly regarded. The aim is not just to protect what’s here but to enhance it, which is an educational opportunity for campers as well,” said French & Pickering’s Conservation Director, Karl Russek.

This achievement aligns with the heart of Innabah’s mission. Camp Director Michael Hyde reflected on what this means for the future of the camp. “This conservation easement represents more than just protecting the land; it secures the heart of what makes Innabah so special. As Innabah approaches 100 years of serving in Christian Ministry, we are grateful for all of the campers and guests who have explored these woods, hiked these trails, and gathered in these spaces to form friendships and grow in faith. Now, we can be certain that future generations will have the same opportunities to experience the beauty, adventure, and peace that Innabah has always offered.”

Conserving Innabah’s land is more than a legal agreement, it is a commitment to the future. It is a reflection of the passion, dedication, and faith of all who made this possible. This milestone reminds us of what can be accomplished when people come together with a shared vision, ensuring that Innabah remains a place of ministry, adventure, and natural beauty for generations to come.