The East Penn Concerned Citizens is turning over $1,300 to the Lehigh Gap Nature Center.

The group was formed in 1999 to oppose Lehigh Asphalt Paving and Construction Company's proposal to quarry 114 acres on Hollow Road in East Penn Township.Nancy Blaha and Maryann Leavitt headed the citizens and did the zoning research. When there was no time for fundraising Amandeus "Junior" Steigerwalt stepped in and helped.The money was needed to bring in expert witnesses for the many hearings that were held.A letter passed on by the township said Lehigh Asphalt had, on Dec. 17, 2014, requested that its bond in the amount of $246,050 be released as all plans to mine the site had been canceled.Blaha said the money remaining in the Concerned Citizens treasury was being turned over the nature center because of its important contributions to the township.Restoring and maintaining the natural beauty of the township is consistent with the mission of the group, she said.Dan Kunkle, nature center executive director, asked if there was any preference for use of the $1,300.Blaha asked for suggestions. Kunkle suggested the educational fund, or endowment fund which will provide money to be sure the center remains funded."It is where we put windfall gifts," he said. That is where Blaha thought the money could best serve the community."I would like to compliment you for the hard work and perseverance," said Kunkle.