The Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, Inc. is a 501(c)3 charitable organization through which contributions support the work of the Augusta Canal Authority, the public steward of the Augusta Canal, a historically significant industrial waterway dating to 1845. The mission is to preserve, protect and interpret the canal's man-made and natural environments through historic preservation, interpretation, education, recreation, conservation, and economic development along the canal’s 13-mile waterway. In 1996, the Augusta Canal attained National Heritage Area status, making it a partner of the National Park Service. Recently, we have built several new recreational trails near the waterway. The canal is now naturalized and home to hundreds of freshwater plants and animals with over 25 miles of multi-purpose trails.
The Cashin Fundfor Young Learners
Many teachers make a field trip to the Canal a highlight of the school year. But some students' families lack funds to pay for modest admission fees. You can help more young people have a memorable Canal field trip experience with a gift to the Edward J. Cashin Young Learners Fund. Established in 2007, the Cashin Fund honors the memory of one of the Canal's great advocates and scholars, the late Dr. Edward J. Cashin. Your gift to the Cashin fund can sponsor one child or an entire classroom.
Funding Opportunities
- $10 supports one student
- $200 funds an entire class of 25 - Donors funding a class will receive a personal thank you letter from the students
Special Giving
Enterprise Associate
Gifts of $2,500 - $9,999 entitle the donor to membership as an Enterprise Associate, named to acknowledge both the spirit of enterprise that led to the Canal's construction, enlargement and preservation, and for the mighty 19th century textile mill that is now home to the Augusta Canal Discovery Center. Enterprise Associates receive all benefits of the Lock Master Canal Keeper as well as one complimentary rental of the Discovery Center for a private function.
The Henry H. Cumming Society
Gifts of $10,000 or more entitle the donor to membership in the Henry H. Cumming Society. Named in honor of the founder of the Augusta Canal, the Society's motto comes from Henry Cumming himself, "It is the duty and ought to be the pleasure of every citizen to do something for the public good." The Society will recognize its members in unique and customized ways that suit the preferences of the donor.
Memorials
Honor a friend or loved one, or their memory, with a tax-deductible gift to the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, Inc. Acknowledgment will be sent to both the donor and the honoree as appropriate.
Corporate Gifts
Businesses and organizations may support the canal both with cash and in-kind gifts. A customized acknowledgement will be provided based on the needs and desires of the donor. Corporate donors are recognized on our website.