Dear Sierra Club Ohio Members and Friends,

As summer winds down, we’re gearing up for an exciting and pivotal moment in the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter’s journey — the 2025 Election season is officially underway!

We are thrilled to announce that the 2025 Nominating Committee is actively recruiting passionate and committed individuals to run for two open seats on the Sierra Club Ohio Executive Committee for 2026.

Serving on the Executive Committee is a unique opportunity to step into a leadership role that directly shapes the direction and impact of our Chapter. This volunteer leadership team plays a vital part in building a strong community of Ohioans dedicated to protecting, enjoying, and advocating for our state’s precious environment. Your voice and vision can help continue the Sierra Club’s legacy as a grassroots environmental force in Ohio.

Whether you have experience in advocacy, organizing, or simply a deep passion for Ohio’s natural beauty and environmental justice, we encourage you to consider running or to nominate a fellow committed Member. The election process is democratic and inclusive — once candidates are vetted by our Nominating Committee, Sierra Club members across Ohio will cast their ballots this fall to select our next leaders.

How to Get Involved:

• Submit your application to the Nominating Committee by August 29, 2025
• Or gather at least 25 signatures on a petition and submit by September 12, 2025

In addition to the Executive Committee openings, the newsletter includes several other exciting opportunities for volunteers to engage with the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter. We’re recruiting for leadership roles such as Chapter Compliance Officer, Fundraising Chair, Membership Chair, Treasurer, Outings Committee members, Issues (Conservation) Committee members, and Communications Committee members — all critical to driving our mission forward. Whether you want to manage finances, lead communications, or help grow our membership, there’s a place for you here.

We also spotlight important updates on environmental policy, including a timely webinar on the phase-out of EV tax credits and what that means for Ohio’s clean transportation future. Plus, don’t miss a chance to join an incredible photographic outing to Death Valley this October — a perfect adventure for nature lovers and shutterbugs alike.

Finally, we highlight our ongoing commitment to energy efficiency through support for Building Performance Standards in Cincinnati, helping shape the city’s green future.

Together, these efforts reflect the breadth and passion of our community’s work — and we invite you to jump in wherever your skills and interests lie.

For questions or to express interest in any role, please reach out to Steve McPhee, Nominating Committee Chair, at steve.neosierra@gmail.com, or Ericka Copeland, State Director, at ericka.copeland@sierraclub.org.

Thank you for being part of this movement — your leadership and participation are what keep Ohio’s environment strong and vibrant.

Yours in the movement,

Ericka Copeland

State Director, Sierra Club Ohio Chapter

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: 
Ohio Chapter Elections Coming This Fall!
CALL FOR 2026 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CANDIDATES

We are excited to announce that the 2025 Nominating Committee is now recruiting passionate and talented individuals to run for two open seats on Sierra Club Ohio’s Executive Committee.

Serving on the Executive Committee is a unique opportunity for volunteer leaders to help guide our established Chapter and make a lasting impact on Ohio’s environment. These leaders play a key role in fostering a community of Ohioans committed to creating meaningful change.

Once candidates have been selected by the Nominating Committee, Sierra Club members throughout Ohio will elect leaders to carry forward Sierra Club’s tradition as a grassroots environmental organization.

We know that Ohio is full of accomplished, dedicated individuals who care deeply about our home and environment. We invite you to join us on this journey to protect, enjoy, and explore the Buckeye State.

CANDIDATE PROCESS

If you are ready to make a difference and would like to run for a place on the Executive Committee, you have two options for potential candidacy. You may choose the avenue to pursue candidacy. Candidates must become members of Sierra Club before applying.

Position Description: Executive Committee Member Sierra Club Ohio Chapter

Nomination: Complete the 2026 Sierra Club Ohio Executive Committee Member Application to be considered by our Nominating Committee as a candidate for the Executive Committee Elections. Applications are due August 29, 2025.

Petition: Prospective candidates may also seek to get on the fall ballot by submitting a petition signed by at least 25 Ohio Sierra Club members in lieu of applying to the Nominating Committee. Petitions are due September 12, 2025.

• The Executive Committee is made up of 4 at-large members, plus Group Representatives chosen by their respective groups
• Terms are one or two years, and begin in January 2026
• Ballots will be sent in October, with results announced in November
• Orientation of the new members of the Ohio Chapter ExCom takes place in January 2026

* Has your contact information (name, email) changed in the last year? Keep our records up to date so you can participate in the election process!*

Questions about the Election?

Please contact:
Steve McPhee, Nominating Committee Chair, steve.neosierra@gmail.com

We are Recruiting Volunteer Leaders
Please Apply Today!

Now Recruiting: Help Lead the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter!

The Sierra Club Ohio Chapter is currently seeking passionate and committed volunteers to fill several key leadership roles. These positions are essential to the Chapter’s success and offer a meaningful opportunity to help guide our work across the state.

We are actively recruiting for the following roles:

Executive Committee Member Sierra Club Ohio Chapter
 
2026 Sierra Club Ohio Executive Committee Member Application

• Sierra Club Ohio Chapter - Compliance Officer Position Description
• Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Fundraising Chair Position Description
• Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Membership Chair Position Description

These leadership roles play a critical part in shaping our priorities, ensuring accountability, and building a strong and inclusive movement for environmental and social justice in Ohio.

We invite you to consider serving, and encourage you to share these opportunities with friends, family, and your broader networks. Together, we can build a vibrant, effective Chapter for the years ahead.

Click the link below to apply:

Help Rebuild the Outdoors for All Program

Join the Outings Committee!

Location: Virtual

Time Commitment: ~5 hours/month

Position: Volunteer – Outings Committee Member

Are you passionate about the outdoors, equity in access to nature, and environmental protection? Do you believe everyone should have the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Ohio? If so, we invite you to join the newly formed Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Outings Committee.

As part of our strategic plan, rebuilding and strengthening the Outings Program is a top priority. The goal? To reduce barriers to outdoor access and Ensure Outdoors for All — while inspiring and empowering the next generation of environmental leaders.

About the Role:

The Outings Committee provides leadership and oversight for the Chapter’s outings program, coordinating with local groups and sections across Ohio. Committee members will help shape a program that not only encourages outdoor adventure but connects people more deeply to conservation efforts in their communities.

Responsibilities

As a member of the Outings Committee, you will:

• Stay up to date with Sierra Club outings policies and training (OLT)
• Promote and support the development of new outings programs and leaders
• Help ensure local and chapter outings meet safety and policy standards
• Communicate with national and local teams to relay updates and opportunities
• Integrate conservation education into outings where possible
• Assist with scheduling, planning, and publicizing outings
• Maintain required records and documentation

Must be a current Sierra Club Member

This is a great opportunity for anyone who loves nature, values inclusive access to the outdoors, and wants to make a meaningful impact statewide — all while volunteering remotely with a flexible time commitment.

Interested in joining?

Join the Sierra Club Ohio Issues (Conservation) Committee

Issues Committee Members Needed

Are you passionate about protecting Ohio’s environment and shaping the direction of our advocacy work? The Issues (Conservation) Committee plays a vital role in guiding the Sierra Club’s environmental efforts across the state — and we’re looking for dedicated leaders to join us.

This committee provides programmatic and strategic direction for the Chapter’s work and reports directly to the Chapter Executive Committee.

Committee Structure:
The Conservation Committee will be made up of:

• Issues (Conservation) Chair
• Issue Chairs for:
  • Energy
  • Land
  • Water
  • Air
• A representative from the Young Environmental Leaders Committee
• A representative from the Legislative Committee
• A representative from the Grassroots Network
• Members of the Chapter staff

Together, the committee will coordinate and support the work of subcommittees, networks, campaigns, and coalitions that advance our mission throughout Ohio.

Ready to lead?
Fill out the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Volunteer Intake Form to get started:

Volunteer Treasurer Position

Support Sierra Club Ohio's financial management systems, manage and oversee the integrity and accuracy of Ohio's financial management process and procedures

Volunteer Opportunity:

Communications Committee Members Needed!

Are you a passionate communicator who wants to make a real impact in Ohio? Sierra Club Ohio’s Communications Committee is looking for new members to help elevate our message and expand our reach.

What You’ll Do:

• Craft compelling content and messaging
• Help plan engaging public events
• Strengthen connections with our supporters and communities
• Amplify environmental justice and conservation efforts across the state

Whether you're a writer, designer, strategist, or social media enthusiast — your voice matters here.

Be the voice of change.
Get involved: chad.stephens@sierraclub.org

EV Tax Credits Are Ending:
What You Need to Know and
What Comes Next

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act speeds up the phase-out of major EV and charging tax credits like 30D, 30C, and 45W. What does this mean for fleets, cities, and clean transportation advocates?

Join the Electrification Coalition in a timely webinar on August 12th to break down what’s changing, explore what’s next in federal and local policy, and stay energized through this transition. Learn how to act now, adapt, and lead. A must for public officials, fleet managers, and industry partners shaping the future of electrification.

Register Here

Ohio at Risk:
What Happens if LIHEAP Disappears?

LIHEAP is at Risk — And So Are 265,000 Ohio Households

If Congress eliminates the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), over 265,000 Ohio households could lose access to critical support for heating, utilities, and weatherization services. This program is a lifeline—especially for seniors, families with young children, and individuals with disabilities.

Who’s at risk?
People across Ohio who rely on LIHEAP to stay safe, warm, and healthy in their homes—particularly during our harsh winters and extreme weather events fueled by climate change.

How can you help?

Learn who’s at risk—and how you can help protect this vital program

#SaveLIHEAP #EnergyJustice

Data Centers: Power Plays - But Who Pays?

August 20, 2025 | 7:00 PM ET

Join the Sierra Club to learn about the scale of this data center wave, the massive impact it’s having on the electric sector, and how utilities are responding. This webinar will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly in emerging state policies and utility approaches, and what you can do to help hold technology companies, utilities, regulators, and policymakers accountable.

Columbus Seeks Public Input on Updated Climate Action Plan

The City of Columbus is renewing its commitment to achieving its climate goals. To stay on track for a 45% reduction in pollution by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050, the City is updating the Columbus Climate Action Plan . This update will refine each of the community’s climate actions to ensure alignment with the 2030 target and reflect the progress made so far.

Community feedback is essential! Residents are encouraged to help shape the 2025 update of the Columbus Climate Action Plan by taking the survey today.

Support for Building
Performance Standards

The Sierra Club works to advance efficiency and conservation in Ohio by advocating for better building codes at the state level and better energy policies at the local level. 

In 2023, the City of Cincinnati adopted a goal in the Green Cincinnati Plan of developing Building Performance Standards to encourage energy conservation and efficiency. The Sierra Club has now been invited to participate in a 2025 Building Performance Stakeholder Working Group that will “help shape the discussion surrounding a BPS, ensuring representation from key stakeholder groups throughout the development process.”

Public land near Stillwater Creek in Tuscarawas County targeted for fracking

An unknown oil and gas company just submitted a new nomination to frack under public land in Ohio. This time, they’re targeting land owned by the Ohio Department of Transportation – which means that they want to drill under our highways to extract oil and gas.

This nomination is for approximately 7 acres along State Route 800 in Tuscarawas County. Across the highway, and less than 150 feet away from this proposed fracking site, lies Stillwater Creek.

Over 10,000 people depend on drinking water from surface waters in the Stillwater Creek watershed – including the residents of Cadiz, who haven’t had access to safe drinking water since late June for unrelated reasons.

Studies have shown that fracking near public water sources increases the presence of dangerous chemical contaminants in the drinking water. Fracking on this land would pose a serious threat to these communities' water quality, which is already compromised.

Tell the Oil and Gas Land Management Commission: Ohioans do not support the leasing of our public lands for fracking.

Please visit the Nomination Comment Form, choose Nomination #25-DNR-0009, and submit a public comment telling the Commission you OPPOSE this nomination.

You can draw from the sample letter below — but please personalize to explain why preserving our public lands is important to you:

To the Ohio Oil and Gas Land Management Commission:

I am writing to strongly oppose Nomination #25-DNR-0009 to frack 7 acres along State Route 800 in Tuscarawas County.

These parcels are in close proximity to Stillwater Creek, which is part of the Stillwater Creek watershed. If this nomination goes through, fracking will occur beneath land that is a mere 150 feet from the creek. Considering the fact that two-thirds of fracking jobs use at least one chemical that the Safe Water Drinking Act recognizes as harmful, fracking here is a significant environmental and public health risk. Over 10,800 people living in Cadiz, Dennison, and Uhrichsville rely on drinking water from surface waters in the Stillwater Creek watershed. By opening up this land to fracking, the state will put these communities at risk for water contamination.

Furthermore, fracking requires tens of millions of gallons of freshwater per fracking job. Access to potable water is an urgent priority for the communities who will be impacted by this fracking project: residents of Cadiz have not had access to safe drinking water since late June, in part due to extended drought conditions. We urgently need to conserve our freshwater, not transform it into toxic brine that can never re-enter the water cycle.

The people of Ohio pay for and use our public lands. Our public lands should not be sold to the highest bidder or used for oil and gas extraction. Please protect the people and environment of Ohio, and DENY nomination #25-DNR-0009.

Saturday | August 23 | 12 - 5 P.M.

Whetstone Park

3923 N. High St.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

Columbus ArborFest returns bigger and better!

Celebrate trees with five hours of delightful outdoorsy festivities, including naturalist-led tree walks, activities for all ages, live music, and plenty of food!

Save the Date for Sun Day!

WHAT IS SUN DAY?

SUN DAY is a national day of action on September 21st, 2025 that will celebrate wind and solar power and stand up to the wealthy and well-connected who are doing everything they can to stop the clean energy transition.

The Sierra Club is joining Sun Day to harness the power of the sun!

We’ll harness the power of people, culture and advocacy to defend the progress we have made and demand policymakers do everything they can to accelerate the deployment of clean energy. We’ll build, march and rally in communities across the country to demand the investment and policies we need to get solar and wind projects built.

• Solar and wind power are no longer "alternative" energy – they're now the most reliable, practical choice for powering our future, and the fastest growing energy sources in the world.
• Instead of letting fossil fuel interests control the narrative, we will make Sun Day the story of America that day: people coming together in communities across the country to celebrate clean energy solutions and demand action on climate.

Alongside local organizers, partners, and leaders from across the climate, environmental justice, and clean energy movements, we will demonstrate organized people power that can accelerate the transition to a clean energy future.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to join us for Sun Day on September 21, 2025.

Sun Day will harness the power of people, culture, and advocacy to accelerate the clean energy transition and showcase the businesses, organizations and communities that are already leading the way.

There are many different ways to get involved including:

Hosting a solar open house
Going for an EV test drive
Attending a clean energy parade
Showing off your solar savings
Joining a digital action
…and more!

Stay tuned to the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter website and social media channels to learn about more activities as they are being planned across the state.

Head to sunday.earth for everything you need to know. Follow us and @sundayofaction for updates on how to get involved between now and Sun Day.

How will YOU celebrate the power of the sun?

Capture the Beauty of Death Valley: Photography-Focused Sierra Club Outing This October

Sierra Club National Outings is offering a unique opportunity to experience Death Valley at its most breathtaking—during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. This special trip, designed with photographers in mind, will take place October 16–19, 2025, and includes visits to eight iconic Death Valley locations during the best lighting conditions.

While the itinerary is tailored to photography enthusiasts, anyone interested in exploring the stunning landscapes of Death Valley is welcome to join. The group is limited to 12 participants, and six spots are still available.

If you're interested in joining this memorable adventure, visit the Sierra Club website for details and registration:

Capture the Beauty of Death Valley: Photography-Focused Sierra Club Outing This October

Sierra Club National Outings is offering a unique opportunity to experience Death Valley at its most breathtaking—during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. This special trip, designed with photographers in mind, will take place October 16–19, 2025, and includes visits to eight iconic Death Valley locations during the best lighting conditions.

While the itinerary is tailored to photography enthusiasts, anyone interested in exploring the stunning landscapes of Death Valley is welcome to join. The group is limited to 12 participants, and six spots are still available.

If you're interested in joining this memorable adventure, visit the Sierra Club website for details and registration:

Capture the Beauty of Death Valley: Photography-Focused Sierra Club Outing This October

Sierra Club National Outings is offering a unique opportunity to experience Death Valley at its most breathtaking—during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. This special trip, designed with photographers in mind, will take place October 16–19, 2025, and includes visits to eight iconic Death Valley locations during the best lighting conditions.

While the itinerary is tailored to photography enthusiasts, anyone interested in exploring the stunning landscapes of Death Valley is welcome to join. The group is limited to 12 participants, and six spots are still available.

If you're interested in joining this memorable adventure, visit the Sierra Club website for details and registration:

Thank You!

We greatly appreciate your dedication to environmental conservation in Ohio. We eagerly anticipate hearing from you and connecting with you soon!