Description
Welcome to CraftWorks at Cool Spring, a 501c3 nonprofit which stewards 32 acres containing a Shenandoah Wet Prairie Marsh. Unbelievably only 100 acres of this type of wetland exist globally. The marsh shelters and nourishes 18 rare plants and it shelters and nourishes the community ground water supply. This historic property, which now includes professionally equipped artists’ studios, meeting spaces, and nature trails, is designed to provide exceptional learning programs in art, craft, nature, and sustainability while stewarding the Cool Spring Marsh.
Since 2008, CraftWorks has offered art and nature programs for adults and youth and has served thousands people in the community. In 2014, we provided classes for all ages and held 15 summer camp sessions for youth. We act as a "home" for three Girl Scout troops and two WV Extension Service CEOS groups. We also act as a gathering place. In 2014 alone, the WV Master Naturalists, the Jefferson Arts Council, the Over the Mountain Studio Artist Tour and many others use our facilities, acclaimed for its energy efficient and environmentally progressive construction. CraftWorks hosts more than 2,000 visitors, attendees, campers, artists - all learners - each year.
These are life-enriching experiences provided for our citizens that are not funded by government or taxes. These are learning experiences that increase the cultural richness and environmental awareness of residents - all while protecting acres of green space and groundwater replenishment for our children and grandchildren and beyond.
