Share Your Piedmont Stories by March 15th!

If you've lived in the area for awhile, you've most likely heard of Piedmont Wetlands or the "swamp." Search your memory - do you have a fond story you could share?

Residents who have fished, hunted, explored, or simply grown up around the Piedmont wetlands are invited to contribute their experiences, as community stories will help shape the future of this unique landscape! This area could soon become a destination for walking, wildlife viewing, education, and recreation for generations to come.

A grassroots effort to restore the Piedmont Wetlands southwest of Whitehall is gaining momentum, and organizers are inviting the public to help shape the area's future by sharing their memories, photos, and stories related to the historic "swamp."

The wetlands cover roughly 360 acres within a 500-acre parcel owned by Golden Sunlight Mine GSM). The property sits just southwest of town and is adjacent to the fishing pond created about 20 years ago by the Jefferson Valley Sportsmen in partnership with GSM. After many years of discussion, a growing coalition of local, regional, and state partners is working together to restore the wetlands to their original footprint or to a more viable state than their current condition.

Project supporters (including GSM, JLDC, JV Sportsmen, Trout Unlimited, Audubon Society, and DNRC, to name a few) say the restoration has the potential to transform the area into a place of natural beauty that benefits both residents and visitors. Early concepts include a walking-trail connection to the south end of Whitehall-an idea discussed locally for more than two decades and now closer than ever to becoming reality.

Future trail expansion could eventually extend beyond the wetlands toward the Parrot Castle area or along the inactive rail corridor, creating new opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

The project is currently in the development phase, and organizers are seeking input from those who know the area best. Community members are encouraged to share personal memories, historical information, photographs, or anecdotes related to the wetlands. These stories can help planners better understand past water conditions, preserve the area's history, and ensure the restoration reflects the Whitehall community's values. Information may be submitted to the Whitehall Ledger at whledger@gmail.com.