OSAE Executive News Summer 2021

WELCOME TO
ATHENS COUNTY
, ,
Your host CVB for the 2021 Annual Conference
GET READY FOR A GREAT TIME AS THIS YEAR’S OSAE ANNUAL CONFERENCE HOST INVITES ALL OF OSAE TO
SOUTHEAST OHIO FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME IN THE ORGANIZATION’S 83-YEAR HISTORY.
Tucked into the corner of southeast Ohio, Athens County offers a break from the regular hustle of life. Visitors will discover what its residents
have known for centuries: take time to embrace the peaceful moments, escape to the surrounding countryside and breathe in the fresh air. In this
rural part of Ohio, you can follow trails less traveled and discover an adventure around every corner. The Athens County CVB is committed to
its mission to promote the region as a destination for tourists, strengthens the Visit Athens Ohio brand locally and nationally all while creating
economic development through the business, leisure and group markets.
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT ATHENS COUNTY?
The county was formed in 1805 from Washington County. Because
the original state university (Ohio University) was founded there in
1804, the town and the county were named for the ancient center
of learning: Athens, Greece. Historically, the first large-scale industry
was salt production. Coal mining and timber harvesting played major
roles in Athens County’s economy, as did the treatment and care of the
mentally ill.
While the coal industry has declined dramatically from its peak
years, gravel and limestone continue to mined at several quarries in
the county. Active oil and natural gas wells are found in low numbers
throughout Athens County. Forestry still contributes to the Athens
County economy, both in the private sector and in the public sector.
The headquarters for Wayne National Forest is located between
Athens and Nelsonville. Farming and market gardening continue
to thrive in the area. The largest farms specialize in beef and dairy
production. The Athens Farmers Market, an outdoor market, continues
to grow in popularity. Local and organically grown produce is found in
abundance during the summer months.
Tourism is a large and growing component of the county’s economy.
The county is a regional music center and home to many arts and
crafts businesses. Many visitors are drawn to its natural resources and
abundant wildlife. Hunting and fishing are popular activities in season.
The county has over 19 miles of paved bike path in and between
Athens and Nelsonville. Hiking and mountain biking are popular
throughout the county, especially in the state parks and national forest.
Higher education remains the cornerstone of the county’s economy.
Over one-quarter of the county’s residents either attend or work at
Hocking College or Ohio University.
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ATHENS COUNTY TODAY?
The area remains a
“go-to” destination for
those who already know
its offerings, but it is also
a hot spot for motorcycle
enthusiasts, drawn to its
many hills and twisting
roadways. The area
is also reinvesting in
rebuilding itself following
years of manufacturing
decline in the region.
While the university
has drawn new residents and employees to the area since 1804, in
recent years, the region’s traditional industries have been hard hit by
economic challenges. Given this, a significant focus has been placed
on renewing the land and waterscapes of Athens County. During
your trip to Athens County, you’ll hear great things from the CVB
representatives and area business leaders about all of the projects
currently underway to revitalize the area and develop new sources
of income for its residents. Some of these include the efforts being
conducted by Rural Action and its paint pigments reclamation project;
Passion Works and the Southeast Ohio History Ridges project.
Nestled within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Athens
County offers outdoor excursions and unique experiences to its many
visitors. Those who visit the county often hike, kayak, swim and explore
the region’s many lakes, rivers and bountiful parks. OSAE encourages
our members to come for the conference but stay for a weekend of
family fun and unending discoveries.
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