Dam Assn. looking ahead

Tracie Gordnier and her son Johnny, 11, stopped for a photo during their recent trek into the dam ruins.

A peaceful crosscountry skiing trip down to the base of the Austin Dam ruins in Potter County had Tracie Gordnier's wheels turning.

"This is just another example of how the park could become a more popular attraction," said Gordnier, president of the Austin Dam Memorial Assn. (ADMA), as she returned to civilization, cold but inspired.

"The more we look at it, the more we realize that this is a very special area that has unlimited potential," she told Endeavor News. "For instance, we could encourage groups to hold organized cross-country ski trips through the park, with gatherings at the pavilion."

That and many other goals overload the plate of a small volunteer organization with big ambitions. One mission is to have the park ready for a major event in 2011, marking the centennial of the flood that wiped out much of Austin and claimed upwards of 80 lives.

Earlier ADMA leaders were able to secure the property surrounding the dam ruins while beginning development of the park, including the allimportant access road paralleling Rt. 872 on the western hillside.

ADMA, which came under new leadership two years ago, has launched its 2007 membership campaign and fund drive, with Gordnier as a point person and a cadre of devoted volunteers.

"So much of what we want to accomplish at the park requires not only volunteers, but also an adequate treasury," she said. "We can find a place for every penny we raise. We can also find a volunteer position for just about everybody. Whether your interest is history, nature, people, outdoor recreation, promotion, or if you simply want to get together with a great group of people doing great work, we have a place for you."

Donations can be put toward informative historic displays, natural wildlife preservation, preservation of the dam ruins themselves, stream enhancements, trail improvement, and park maintenance and improvements.

ADMA's major project for the coming months is the installation of electricity and running water at the pavilion area.

"While this is a costly investment, we believe it will open the park to a variety of events and activities," Gordnier said. "The park can be an ideal setting for nature, wildlife, heritage, music, arts, outdoor fitness programs, community events, family reunions or picnics."

Annual ADMA dues are $5.00. Members receive a newsletter, either online or through the mail. Additional information is available by phone at (814) 647-3318 or email at austindam@yahoo.com.