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Merrell Gives Back to the Big Bend Conservancy

Big Bend. The name conjures up vast landscapes filled with mountains, deserts, canyons and a great river. For generations, Texans have loved the place, and sharing Big Bend memories is a surefire way to cement lifelong friendships. The Big Bend Conservancy, formerly known as the Friends of Big Bend National Park, is an organization devoted to preserving the Park, enhancing educational opportunities and providing hospitality for visitors. Whole Earth Provision Co. has had the pleasure of working with the group for many years, so we’re proud to announce that Merrell is once again sponsoring Merrell Gives Back in support of the Big Bend Conservancy.

Merrell makes some of the best footwear available today for enjoying the great outdoors. Merrell is made to look right, feel right and perform well. They go to great lengths to ensure that form, feel and functionality all come together seamlessly.  Their line includes shoes for hiking and trail running as well as shoes for everyday, like the ever popular Moab and Jungle Mocs. Have you tried Merrell’s? If not, this would be the perfect time.  When you purchase a pair of adult, full price Merrell shoes at Whole Earth Provision Co. stores or online between May 15th and May 31st, Merrell will donate $5 to Big Bend Conservancy!

The money raised during Merrell Gives Back will be used by the Big Bend Conservancy to support Big Bend trails. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the National Trails System, and the Conservancy is working to establish a $100,000 endowment for trails at Big Bend. The group has raised $65,000 so far and the funds raised from Merrell Gives Back will be added to their Trails Endowment. The fund will provide for upkeep, repair and expansion of trails at Big Bend National Park forever.  

Last year’s funds are being used toward the renovation of the Rio Grande Village Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is in the heart of the Park’s wetlands, and the new exhibits will be modern, full color interpretations of the Rio Grande and its environment, including a cut-away model of the River. There will be new children’s activities as well as outdoor materials on the many species of birds found in the Park including endangered and threatened species.

In 2016, the Big Bend Conservancy used the funds raised during Merrell Gives Back for their new Fossil Discovery Exhibit.  The Park has over 1200 fossils including more than 30 Cretaceous era species as well as super crocodiles, T-Rex and Sabre Tooth Tigers.  The exhibit focuses specifically on the fossils of Big Bend and features "The Boneyard," Big Bend's dedicated children's interpretive area.

We hope you’ll stop by your favorite Whole Earth store or visit us online and check out our selection of Merrell shoes. You just may find the perfect shoe for everyday or out on the trail, and your purchase will help support the Big Bend Conservancy’s mission that “the Park may be loved and preserved for all generations and all time.”