Conserving Innabah for
Future Generations
For nearly a century, Camp Innabah has been a place where campers build friendships, challenge themselves, and grow in faith. Thanks to a conservation easement finalized in 2024, this land will remain protected forever. This agreement ensures that Innabah’s forests, fields, and creek will never be developed, allowing future generations to experience the same peace, beauty, and adventure that have made Innabah so special.
130 acres preserved forever!
A Journey That
Began in 2020
Like many organizations, Camp Innabah faced financial uncertainty during the pandemic. One possible solution was selling 50 acres of land to ensure the camp’s survival. However, rather than parting with this cherished space, a new opportunity emerged—the chance to permanently conserve Innabah’s land while securing long-term sustainability.
This process took four and a half years of dedication, collaboration, and persistence. The French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust worked closely with the Board of Camping and Retreat Ministry, conference trustees, and camping staff to bring this vision to life.
How the Conservation Easement Works
A conservation easement is a legal agreement that protects land from future development while allowing it to continue being used for its intended purpose. For Innabah, this means:
The land remains protected from development, safeguarding its natural beauty.
No land was sold—the entire property remains part of the camp.
Camp operations, including summer programs, retreats, and outdoor activities, continue as usual.
Environmental stewardship becomes a priority, with expert partners assisting in habitat restoration and conservation efforts.
Innabah’s legacy of faith, community, and adventure is preserved for generations to come.
Stewarding the Funds for Long-Term Sustainability
Securing this easement required significant financial investment, made possible through grants and partnerships. A total of $1,613,000 was raised, including:
$861,000 from the Chester County Preservation Partnership Program
$500,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Bureau of Recreation and Conservation
$252,000 from East Vincent Township Supervisors
The funding for this conservation easement was provided to the EPAUMC Conference and placed into an investment fund. These funds were invested with the long-term sustainability of all the camps in mind, ensuring they continue to thrive for generations to come. Each year, the Camping and Retreat Ministry Board, which oversees Innabah, Gretna Glen, Pocono Plateau, and Carson Simpson Farm, votes on how to allocate 5% of the interest earned from the endowment. The principal remains untouched, while the interest supports vital projects across the camps.
a collective effort
This achievement was made possible through the dedication and collaboration of many individuals and organizations. We are deeply grateful for the vision and hard work of those who helped navigate this process, securing Innabah’s future without sacrificing any of its land. Their commitment to preserving this sacred space will leave a lasting impact for generations of campers to come.
One of the key leaders in this effort was Hosea Latshaw, a retired environmental engineer and longtime supporter of the camp. “Hosea Latshaw was the visionary behind the project,” shared Dawn Taylor-Storm, Director of Connectional Ministries for EPA & GNJ. “Even when we were denied—this was our second application—Hosea didn’t lose faith or hope in the possibility.”
Latshaw reflected on the impact of this work: "It’s a really good thing for the camp. The land will be restricted from development, and that’s really good for such a special place. French & Pickering have been doing this work since 1967, and they’ll be wonderful partners in guiding us on habitat restoration and land stewardship."
looking ahead
The conservation easement is more than just a financial decision—it is a commitment to Camp Innabah’s mission and values. By protecting this land, we ensure that future campers, families, and retreat guests will continue to experience the same meaningful connections to nature, community, and faith that have been a part of Innabah’s story for nearly a century.
We invite you to stay involved! Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, you can help support Innabah’s future and celebrate this incredible milestone.