OAIMA awarded for public outreach efforts

The Ohio Aggregates and Industrial Minerals Association (OAIMA) received the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ 2014 Mineral Education- Public Outreach award for its efforts to raise awareness of the aggregates industry.

OAIMA and the Miami County (Ohio) Park District launched a program that provided book bags and educational rock box kits to children in school areas for completing the “Family Quest Nature Program.” OIMA’s partnership with the park district eventually resulted in a weeklong “Hug the Earth” program that debuted May 2012.

The “Hug the Earth” program then led the duo to create a hands-on experience for children that involved mineral digs, mineral identification projects and educational skits.

“This award is a credit to OAIMA’s public relations committee and our board of directors,” says Patrick Jacomet, OAIMA executive director. “The program would not have been a success without their efforts in educating the public about the importance of our industry. We thank the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for this recognition.”