YOSEMITE FUND CONTRIBUTIONS PAID FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE RED PEAK PASS TRAIL IN YOSEMITE’S BACKCOUNTRY. PHOTO COURTESY OF YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Yosemite National Park’s two largest support groups are just one step away from becoming one. The Yosemite Association and The Yosemite Fund could become united following a meeting of the fund’s board of trustees on Dec. 16.

In November, the Yosemite Association mailed a ballot to members of each organization, asking them to vote to consolidate the two groups or not. According to Christy Holloway, the chairperson of the association’s board of trustees, the membership responded with a resounding “yes.” There were some 4,255 “yes” votes to 181 “no.” That means the consolidation was approved by a 96 percent margin.

Last month, Holloway told members how important the merger was. “We strongly believe that this union combines the best elements and proud histories of each organization and provides the best means for us to continue to protect and preserve Yosemite National Park,” she wrote in a letter to members. “It seems time to prepare for a new and exciting chapter supporting this special place we all treasure.”

Since 1988, The Yosemite Fund has granted over $55 million for more than 300 projects in Yosemite. Fund donors include individuals, foundations and corporations – people who have a real love for Yosemite.

Results of the Yosemite Fund’s work on major projects can be seen most notably at the approach to lower Yosemite Falls ($13.5 million), Glacier Point ($4 million), Happy Isles ($2 million) and Olmstead Point ($1.2 million).

The fund’s signature project this year was the $800,000 rehabilitation of the Half Dome Overlook, which improved vehicle and pedestrian access, educational signage and viewing terraces, and protected natural habitat. Donors also funded projects to restore Wawona Meadow, repair the Red Peak Pass backcountry trail and Valley Loop trail, protect Peregrine Falcons and restore amphitheaters near several Valley campgrounds.

The Yosemite Association is a nonprofit membership organization that provides opportunities for people to learn about, enjoy and experience Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada. It celebrates the majesty and grandeur of the Park through visitor services, publications, outdoor classroom, membership activities and community programs. Its many programs and services help people of all ages and backgrounds gain an enduring and inspirational connection to the Park.