NOBLE COUNTY AIRPORT AWARDED RAF GRANT FOR PHASE TWO IMPROVEMENTS

RAF Ohio Liaison Christine Mortine used an RAF grant in 2020 to initiate improvements at this airport near Caldwell, Ohio. It is a desirable recreational destination that provides walking access to Noble County’s Wolf Run State Park campground. Pilots can tie down and follow a wooded trail to the lake. The outhouse was improved, and carts were obtained for visitors to haul camping gear from their parked aircraft to the camping area. Re-grading and drainage of the additional parking area is underway. A visitor sign-in box was added to record pilot usage. During the summer months 10-25 sign-ins are recorded each month. Mortine monitors the record and says, “Heartwarming messages from campers and picnickers sharing their enjoyment of the spot and their plans to return, only make these approved improvements all the more exciting.”

Mortine will use the 2024 grant to enlist volunteers to work under the direction of airport manager Ed Crock, who operates a construction company. “The Wolf Run Fly In camp area has proven to be a highly energized project with mounting support and enthusiasm for Phase Two,” Mortine said. Planned improvements include an open-air pilot shelter with concrete floor large enough for several picnic tables, and adequate storage for carts, kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and bikes. The plan is to add an RAF fire ring, and at least three wooden tent platforms closer to the lake’s edge within the more wooded environment.

“There is full throttle involvement of the Noble County Board of Trustees, Ohio Department of Natural Resource State Parks division, and the RAF,” Mortine added. For more information on Noble County Airport, see the Airfield Guide.

Submitted on February 14, 2024
By Carmine Mowbray