Old Man Winter is giving us a run for our money this year. Snow and ice blanket Canaan Valley and we have recorded the lowest temperatures in the contiguous 48 states (-28 degrees).

 “Larry Thomas has moved the Conservancy to the forefront of environmental activism in West Virginia. Under his leadership, the organization has thrived and grown. Not only has he started many activities for the organization, but he has imbued the board and the membership with a new spirit and energy by both personal example and inspiring group actions. It is going to be difficult to fill his shoes, but I am going to try.” I wrote those words in June 2023 when Larry ended his tenure as President of WVHC, and I still wonder if I am filling his shoes.

Last week, Larry resigned from our Board as he moves on to other endeavors. He will still remain active in the organization, but we will all miss his steady presence. Over the years, he has filled many roles, including policy maker, Chair of the Public Lands Committee, President, Past President, and wise elder—always managing the details the rest of us forgot. Thank you, Larry!

It is with great pleasure that I announce the Board of Directors has approved the promotion of Olivia Miller to Interim Executive Director. She has excelled as Program Director, and we are confident she is the right choice to be the face of our organization.

Times continue to be difficult, as you will see in this issue of The Voice. The West Virginia Legislature is in session and proposing many anti-environmental bills. Our lobbying team is working overtime to push back, and the session is now about half over.

Corridor H in Wardensville is moving forward, with bids expected to go out in March. There is also an update on the Air Quality Board hearing on the microgrid/data center in Tucker County. The Air Quality Board denied our appeal and allowed the permit to stand, but we are evaluating next steps—the fight is far from over.

So, as always, we need your support and input as we navigate these challenges. Please contact me with any questions or comments, and thank you for being members!

See you in the Highlands,

Marilyn Shoenfeld 
President 
West Virginia Highlands Conservancy