Cortland Conservation Club

Cortland Conservation Club. . , Early Beginnings , . 1938-1940: US Army Corps of Engineers announces the building of a lake to provide control of the flood waters here and provide control in the Ohio River and Mississippi River., . A group of interested residents formed to provide a place on the proposed lake for fishing, swimming, sports, boating and outdoor activities. This group found a piece of property on McCleary Jacoby Road that consisted of about 5 acres of land, a farm house and a barn., . June 13, 1944: This group grew to about 50 people. On this date, the Articles of Incorporation were signed by nine Officers and Trustees to form our not-for-profit Club at its present location. A method of membership developed by selling shares of stock and/or work hours raise operating funds. Monthly meetings were held with an Annual Meeting in January to authorize capital expenditures., . The Club was off to a good start. The purpose was to "form a Club of people interested in all phases of outdoor sports and in the field on conservation that are essential to the development and maintenance of a recreational center on or near Mosquito Lake.", Early Development! , . The farm house on the property offered a place where a part-time caretaker (and family) could live.The barn was converted to al Club House and storage area., . A boat ramp was put in Picnic tables were built by members. A large enclosed shelter was built: Badminton and volleyball areas were set up Clay tennis courts were built. Moorings were added. Swing sets were built., . On hot days wives work and would bring the children to swim. Husbands would come after work and families would have a picnic with other Club members who were there to appreciat swim the cool air by the lake. A swim platform was placed out in the lake. Two shuffle board courts were built., Further Growth , . The Club grew to a maximum of 200 family units., . An addition to the Barn/Club House added 4 bathrooms, and a large kitchen., . The tennis courts were paved and surrounded by fences A paved basketball court was added. A bocce ball court was constructed. Corn Hole targets were made. Canoe and kayak racks have been added., . A big project was enlarging the boat ramp. New Club docks were purchased., . In 2007 there was a major remodeling of the Club House. This provided a much nicer meeting room,rest rooms and kitchen. This room is now used for parties, wedding receptions, graduations parties, Company meetings and social events.,