Niles Deneen
Favorite part of working at Deneen Pottery? Everything! Working alongside and inspiring our awesome staff and assisting our incredible customers. Getting to be around such a creative process and talented artists - the variety of 'opportunities' that fill my day keep me on my toes. Witnessing the transformation from proof to product.
At Deneen Pottery, we take immense pride in collaborating with organizations that share our passion for preserving and celebrating the natural beauty of America’s landscapes. One such esteemed partner is the Canyonlands Natural History Association (CNHA), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the educational and research efforts of various federal agencies overseeing public lands in southeastern Utah. Our partnership with CNHA has been both fulfilling and enduring, exemplifying our mutual commitment to enhancing visitor experiences in national parks.
About Canyonlands Natural History Association (CNHA)
Established in 1967, CNHA operates as a nonprofit organization with a mission to assist the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management in their educational and visitor programs. By managing retail outlets and providing educational materials, CNHA plays a pivotal role in enriching the public’s understanding and appreciation of the region’s natural and cultural resources. The association’s efforts span several notable locations, including Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Bears Ears National Monument, and the Manti-La Sal National Forest. Read more about it here.
A significant portion of CNHA’s funding is generated through sales from their retail stores. These proceeds are reinvested into the parks to support various programs such as outdoor education, ranger equipment, and scientific research on the Colorado Plateau. In recent years, CNHA has contributed approximately $1.5 million annually to these initiatives, underscoring their dedication to the stewardship of public lands. Click here to learn more.
The Genesis of the Deneen Pottery and CNHA Collaboration
Our collaboration with CNHA began when they sought to introduce high-quality, American-made mugs into their retail offerings. They were particularly interested in products that reflected the unique character of the parks they represent. Deneen Pottery’s handcrafted mugs, produced in Minnesota, aligned perfectly with these criteria. The decision to partner was driven by our shared values of quality craftsmanship and support for domestic manufacturing.
Sam Wainer, who served as CNHA’s Operations Manager before becoming the Executive Director, played a crucial role in initiating this partnership. He recognized that our handmade mugs would resonate with park visitors seeking meaningful souvenirs. The collaboration quickly flourished, leading to the creation of custom mugs featuring iconic imagery from the parks, such as the Delicate Arch of Arches National Park.
Insights from Sam Wainer on Deneen Pottery
In a previous article, Customer Spotlight: Canyonlands, we highlighted our collaboration with the Canyonlands Natural History Association (CNHA) and the impact of our handcrafted mugs in national park gift shops. The article explores how our partnership began, the role of CNHA in supporting public lands, and insights from Sam Wainer on why Deneen Pottery mugs have become a visitor favorite. This long-standing collaboration continues to thrive, reinforcing our shared commitment to preserving and celebrating the beauty of America’s national parks.
In this article, Sam Wainer has expressed appreciation for the partnership between CNHA and Deneen Pottery. He noted that our mugs have become a staple in their retail stores, offering visitors a tangible connection to their park experiences. The handcrafted nature of our products, combined with the detailed artwork representing the parks, has made them highly sought-after items among park enthusiasts.
Valuing and Sustaining the Partnership
At Deneen Pottery, we deeply value our partnership with CNHA. Collaborating with an organization that is dedicated to the preservation and education of national parks aligns seamlessly with our mission. We continue to produce custom mugs for Canyonlands and other parks, ensuring that visitors have access to quality souvenirs that commemorate their experiences. This ongoing collaboration reflects our commitment to supporting the educational and conservation efforts of CNHA.
Deneen Pottery’s Commitment to National Parks
Our dedication to national parks extends beyond our partnership with CNHA. We have a longstanding tradition of supporting various national parks and monuments across the country. For each mug sold from our National Parks & Monuments collection, a portion of the proceeds is donated to support park initiatives. Shop Mugs here.
In light of recent challenges facing national parks, such as significant budget cuts, we recognize the importance of continued support and advocacy. The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has reported substantial reductions in funding for the National Park Service, which could lead to decreased staffing and resources. We stand with organizations like NPCA in their efforts to protect and preserve these national treasures.
Resources for Supporting National Parks
For those interested in learning more about and supporting national parks, the NPCA offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for involvement. Their work spans various regions, including the Midwest, and focuses on ensuring that national parks are protected for future generations.
By engaging with organizations like CNHA and NPCA, individuals can contribute to the preservation and enhancement of national parks. Whether through direct donations, volunteering, or purchasing products that support park initiatives, every effort helps in maintaining the beauty and integrity of these natural spaces.
In conclusion, our partnership with the Canyonlands Natural History Association exemplifies Deneen Pottery’s commitment to supporting national parks through quality craftsmanship and collaborative efforts. We are honored to contribute to the missions of organizations dedicated to preserving America’s natural heritage and look forward to continuing these valued relationships.
Niles Deneen
Favorite part of working at Deneen Pottery? Everything! Working alongside and inspiring our awesome staff and assisting our incredible customers. Getting to be around such a creative process and talented artists - the variety of 'opportunities' that fill my day keep me on my toes. Witnessing the transformation from proof to product.
