Honoring a Lasting Legacy at Atherton Island Natural Area
We recently gathered at Atherton Island Natural Area for a spring wildflower hike and a meaningful moment of remembrance. Following the hike, Ouabache Land Conservancy held a small dedication in honor of Hansford C. Mann Jr., a founding member of OLC who served as Vice President of Acquisitions from 2007 until his passing in 2025.
For nearly two decades, Hansford played an important role in shaping the organization and helping protect the places that matter across west-central Indiana.
A Tribute Rooted in Stewardship
As part of the dedication, Hansford’s family helped install a new boot brush station near the preserve parking area. His wife, children, grandchildren, and others worked together to dig the holes, pour concrete, and place the station—creating something both practical and lasting for future visitors.
The station’s signage recognizes Hansford’s years of service and his enduring impact on Ouabache Land Conservancy.
Boot brush stations help visitors clean soil and seeds from their shoes before entering or leaving a trail, reducing the spread of invasive species and helping protect the health of natural areas. It was a fitting tribute for someone who spent so many years helping conserve land for future generations.
A Place to Pause
The day also included the dedication of a new Leopold bench on the preserve. Built by OLC board member Curt Stanfield, the bench features a brass plaque honoring Hansford and his commitment to conservation.
Together, the bench and boot brush station add both beauty and purpose to the preserve—creating spaces for reflection, stewardship, and connection to the land.
Remembering Hansford
More than anything, the day was about people: family members sharing memories, volunteers spending time together outdoors, and a community taking time to recognize someone whose contributions helped shape the organization we know today.
We are deeply grateful to Hansford’s family for joining us and allowing us to celebrate his life and legacy in such a meaningful way.
His impact continues to live on—not only through the land he helped protect, but through the experiences future visitors will have because of that work.