In 1999, complete management of Bear’s Mill was transferred to a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization called The Friends of Bear’s Mill, Inc.  Formed by Terry and Julie Clark, the Friends of Bear’s Mill was a way to ensure the Mill and its history would be protected and remain open to the public for generations to come.

In 2013, Bear’s Mill and surrounding property was purchased by The Friends through funding from a Clean Ohio Fund grant administered by the Ohio Public Works Commission.  Additional funds were provided by the Darke County Soil and Water District in return for a conservation easement guaranteeing the property would remain undeveloped and environmentally preserved.

Further support was also provided by previous Mill owners Terry and Julie Clark.  The Friends of Bear’s Mill are responsible for management, fiscal responsibility, operations, as well as maintenance of the 35 acres of woodlands, dams and levees on the Mill property.