OHIO VALLEY ALLIES
About OVA
Founded by Jill Hunkler, the Ohio Valley Allies (OVA) has become a beacon of environmental advocacy and community empowerment in the Ohio Valley Region and beyond. As a “fracking refugee,” Jill Hunkler's personal journey is felt in her dedication to challenging corporate narratives, holding industry and officials accountable, and tirelessly providing resources, supporting community science projects, and fostering connection and knowledge for communities to advocate for their own best interests. This grassroots organization, built for and by the people of the greater Ohio Valley and beyond, unites a diverse and talented group of individuals committed to a vision of peace, environmental justice, and thriving communities free from the legacy of predatory and toxic industries.
What We Do
Our efforts are rooted in the traditions of our ancestors, which includes stewardship of the land and service to the community. When fracking invaded our homelands, we began researching the impacts of the oil and gas industry and witnessed first hand its devastation. Ever since, our goal has been to awaken the people to the harms of this industry and empower communities to protect themselves from oil and gas and associated industries which includes petrochemicals for plastic and hydrogen. We also seek solutions and strive to promote the systems of change that put an end to the fossil fuel economy and empire.
Every community has its own identity, shaped by its culture, history, strengths and challenges. Some are rooted in generational farming, while others have grown around particular industries and trades. OVA recognizes the uniqueness of each community and aspires to offer solutions based on the particular needs of those in harm's way. . We understand that within these communities, there are individuals who place their hopes in the promises of new oil, gas, petrochemical and hydrogen development. We do not impose our views on any community. We simply share the research and lived experience of the negative impacts from these industries. The community then decides for themselves which path they want to support moving forward.
How We Do It
Our experience has shown us that these industries bring with them expert negotiators and marketers, Savvy PR teams and lobbyists and professionally crafted environmental and economic impact studies all designed to sell their projects to the community and its leaders. This presents a real challenge for citizens who are already occupied with managing their farms, raising families, running small businesses, and maintaining their homes.
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It can feel overwhelming to figure out if a project is beneficial for you, your family, or your community, especially when you don't have the time or resources to fully investigate it and challenge these powerful companies’ narratives.
This is the gap Ohio Valley Allies aims to fill. Our mission is to inform and empower people with the tools necessary to be good stewards of the land and to protect themselves from irresponsible development. We provide insights and knowledge to counteract the industry's narratives, exposing flaws in their studies and highlighting deceptive practices.
Our goal is to empower communities by equipping them with scientific data and a broader understanding of the industry's impacts, ensuring they are not exploited. We strive to protect the environment and public health from the adverse effects of these projects, ensuring that the voices and concerns of communities and landowners are heard and respected.