Our History
Our organization’s story started with the creation of the
Kenai Mountains – Turnagain Arm National Heritage Area.
How it All Began
Established in 2009 as a federally designated National Heritage Area, the KMTA NHA was formed out of recognition for the unique cultural, historical, and natural significance of the region.
The journey toward designation was driven by a grassroots effort led by local residents, historians, and community leaders who sought to preserve the area’s natural and cultural resources. As required for all National Heritage Areas, an organization was established to coordinate and implement the region’s goals. With the designation of the KMTA NHA, our nonprofit was formed under the name Kenai Mountains-Turnagain Arm National Heritage Corridor Communities Association (commonly referred to as KMTA).
Our First Phase
The first 15 years of KMTA’s operations were defined by significant investments in the communities within the NHA boundaries. KMTA focused on preserving and promoting the region’s unique resources through a federal pass-through grants program. This initiative leveraged annual federal appropriations to support mission-aligned projects led by community groups and organizations.
Without much fanfare, KMTA quietly invested nearly $1.5 million in cultural and natural preservation projects throughout the NHA. These efforts resulted in a lasting impact, with many of the completed projects still visible and accessible to this day – testaments to their sustainability and value to the region.
A Critical Juncture
In 2020, KMTA faced a pivotal moment as it approached the end of our NHA’s initial 15-year authorization. Unlike many other national designations (e.g., National Parks, National Monuments, National Historic Trails) all National Heritage Areas were established with an initial authorization period, during which they were eligible for federal funding to steward the resources of their respective regions.
The looming expiration of the NHA program nationwide spurred a robust advocacy campaign to secure the future of these vital organizations. After a multi-year effort, the historic National Heritage Area Act (S. 1942) was signed into law by President Biden in January 2023. This landmark legislation reauthorized KMTA and the nation’s 61 other NHAs for another 15 years, ensuring the continued stewardship of these treasured landscapes. With strong bipartisan support, the National Heritage Area Act became one of the final bills passed during the 117th Congress.
Our Evolution
Following the passage of 2023’s historic legislation, KMTA embarked on a period of introspection and strategic planning. We set ambitious new goals and refined our priorities to ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability. Recognizing the need to diversify our revenue streams and reduce dependence on federal funding, KMTA transitioned away from its sub-granting program.
Instead, we redirected our energy toward developing staff-led programs shaped by community input and designed to address local needs. This evolution marks a new chapter in KMTA’s story, as we build on our legacy of stewardship while creating innovative opportunities for the future.