FAQ
We are unique because you are the engine behind the movement. We provide the fuel to get you going!
- What is the MillionMile Greenway?
- What is the ultimate goal of the MMG?
- Why a “million?”
- How is a mile of the MMG defined?
- Does the MMG compete with other local conservation or trail organizations?
- How is the MMG organization structured?
- Does MMG offer funding to start a greenway project?
- Are there already established affiliates?
- How do I get involved?
- How does an established group become part of the MMG?
- What tools and resources are available?
- Does the MMG build trails?
- Does the MMG help obtain land?
- Does the MMG help resolve zoning issues?
1. What is the MillionMile Greenway?
We are a non-profit organization that serves as a mentor for people who want to save greenspace. All we ask of those who use our resources is to include three components in their plan: conservation, recreation and connectivity. Each section of the MillionMile Greenway should conserve greenspace, provide recreation for the public and connect to an existing greenspace.
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2. What is the ultimate goal of the MMG?
We want to encourage people to find opportunities for conserving greenspace in their communities. But our ultimate goal is to connect those greenways to create a network throughout Georgia and beyond.
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3. Why a “million?”
It’s a great goal for this growing project! The Peach State features mountains and beaches, waterfalls and farmland. But each day, the metropolitan Atlanta area covers 55 acres of land with concrete, asphalt and buildings. Other states and cities face similar challenges. With our help, any group of citizens can make a real difference by helping us reach the MillionMile mark.
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4. How is a mile of the MMG defined?
Each mile of the MMG must have three components: conservation, recreation and connectivity.
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5. Does the MMG compete with other local conservation or trail organizations?
Not at all. We focus on inspiring the public to create trails and greenways at the local level. Then we help plug each community’s greenspace into a greater framework, linking neighbors. We offer long-term help to fulfill each town’s vision from organization to completion. Our success depends on building local constituencies, programs and agendas that will benefit all conservation and recreation organizations.
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6. How is the MMG organization structured?
The MMG is a not-for-profit organization with a nine-member Board of Directors and a 40-member Advisory Council. We have full-time staff located in Atlanta, Georgia. Additional volunteers contribute their time working on committees of MMG such as the Tools Committee and the Marketing Committee.
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7. Does MMG offer funding to start a greenway project?
Yes, MMG offers grants and packages of services to help communities start greenway projects. For information on applying for a grant, email us at info@millionmilegreenway.org or download our application by clicking here.
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8. Are there already established affiliates?
We are currently working with the East Coast Greenway Alliance to establish local greenway organizations in Northern Virginia and in the coastal counties of Georgia. We also have pilot initiatives underway in Metro Atlanta and Northeast Georgia. Stay tuned for more information about the progress of these pilot initiatives.
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9. How do I get involved?
There are several ways to get involved with the MillionMile Greenway. You may become a volunteer at the organizational level through our Marketing, Membership, Sponsorship, or Tools Committees. You may establish a greenway affiliate at the regional or local level or choose to get involved with an already established affiliate in your local community. You may join the MillionMile Greenway and become a member of our organization by contributing an annual fee. In return you will receive regular updates, quarterly e-newsletters, invitations to social events in your area, and a window decal. If you are interested in contributing to the MMG but have limited time, we invite you to make a tax deductible donation to the organization.
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10. How does an established group become part of the MMG?
We are excited to welcome anyone or any similar organization into the MillionMile Greenway family. But we do ask that our affiliates design ideas with the following three components:
- A conservation purpose to preserve greenspace, watersheds or historic sites
- A recreation purpose so the public can use the land or water in some way
- A physical connection to existing or future greenways
We will provide links on our website to our affiliates.
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11. What tools and resources are available?
We aim to empower individuals and local community organizations who want to bring about change. Our most exciting tool is a piece of software called the Greenway Analyst. It maps out perfect spots for trails, greenways and parks. Fundraising ideas, volunteer recruitment strategies, and references to local organizations are also on the site. We have advice on dealing with zoning problems, planning organizations, local governments and conservation easements. And we offer a budget calculator to help you determine the funding needed for your project and a timeline to keep you on schedule. Check out more on available resources.
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12. Does the MMG build trails?
No, we do not. But some of our affiliates can help you build them in your community. We will put you in touch with them.
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13. Does the MMG help obtain land?
No, we do not. But we will put you in touch with our affiliates who can help you buy land or create conservation easements.
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14. Does the MMG help resolve zoning issues?
No, we do not. But we will link you to websites and other affiliates who have successfully conquered zoning issues.
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