Otters of Blairsville

a public art program

Members of the Blairsville community and the Blairsville UGRR recognizes the historic importance of the Conemaugh River to Blairsville.  Post-industrial revolution resulted in the river becoming nearly decimated of  life.  The many reports of the return of the river otter is an indication of the health and vitality of our river. The Otters of Blairsville public art project, funded in part by a grant by the Creative Arts Collective, celebrates the health of the Conemaugh, our native otters, and the talented artists who have created these unique statues.

The word “Conemaugh” is derived from  “kwënëmuxkw,” the Unami-Lenape word for otter.

Your otter will be listed on the Otters of Blairsville tour map, and promoted on the Blairsville UGRR website and Otters of Blairsville social media platforms. 

It the design of the Otters of  Blairsville public art program to increase tourism to Blairsville, foot-traffic to downtown businesses, and recreation on the beautiful Conemaugh River.