Tennessee State Parks is organizing public meetings at 11 locations across the state to discuss site management plans tailored to each park. These plans are part of a 10-year Comprehensive Strategic Plan that directs the operations of all 59 state parks in Tennessee. The meetings provide an opportunity for the public to engage with park staff and offer feedback on strategic management proposals. These in-person meetings will be held at or near the respective parks.
The plans focus on four key areas of park management: resource stewardship, visitor experience, facilities and amenities, and operational excellence. Greer Tidwell, the deputy commissioner of Conservation for the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, emphasized the importance of public engagement in enhancing the quality of the state park system.
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The meetings will occur from November 4, 2024, through January 28, 2025, with the following schedule:
– Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park: Nov. 4, 5:30 p.m., Manchester Coffee County Conference Center, Manchester, TN
– Fort Loudoun State Park: Nov. 11, 5:30 p.m., Visitor Center Media Room, Vonore, TN
– Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park: Nov. 12, 5:30 p.m., Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park, Byrdstown, TN
– Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park: Nov. 12, 5:30 p.m., Visitor Center, Millington, TN
– Red Clay State Park: Nov. 19, 5:30 p.m., Red Clay State Park Theater, Cleveland, TN
– Fall Creek Falls State Park: Nov. 19, 5:30 p.m., Rec Hall, Spencer, TN
– Natchez Trace State Park: Nov. 19, 5:30 p.m., The Lodge, Wildersville, TN
– Paris Landing State Park: Nov. 21, 5:30 p.m., The Lodge, Buchanan, TN
– Long Hunter State Park: Dec. 10, 5:30 p.m., Visitor Center, Hermitage, TN
– Dunbar Cave State Park: Dec. 17, 5:30 p.m., Visitor Center, Clarksville, TN
– Roan Mountain State Park: Jan. 28, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Conference Center, Roan Mountain, TN
The overarching goal is to maintain a high-quality parks system that provides exceptional parks, trails, and facilities while supporting outdoor recreation and local economies. Public comments can be submitted through February 7, 2025, via an online survey or mail. For more information on the Comprehensive Strategic Plan, systemwide proposals, individual park plans, the meeting schedule, and the online survey, interested individuals can visit this link.
Source: Read Original Release
Volunteers Needed for Playground Cleanup Event
Darrell’s Dream Boundless Playground at Warriors’ Path State Park will be closed on November 9 for a volunteer cleanup event organized by the Friends of Warriors’ Path State Park and Tennessee State Parks. Volunteers are sought for participation, and those interested can contact Mary Steadman.