16th Annual Cherokee-Crane Festival Attracts More Than 4,000 Visitors

NASHVILLE — The 16th Annual Cherokee-Crane Festival attracted more than 4,000 people Jan. 19-20, 2008 at the three venue event that included TWRA’s Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge, Hamilton County’s Birchwood School, and the adjoining Cherokee Indian Removal Memorial.

“I think the event was a real success because of the TWRA personnel that came to help do anything that needed to be done,” said Dan, Hicks, Region III Information and Education Coordinator. “It was the best Crane event in 16 years at the Hiwassee Refuge.  A lot of credit needed to go to Manager Jason Jackson.  This was his first year after taking over for Wally Akins, and he and his team, Jeff Womac and Lloyd Garrison deserve thanks for a job well done.

“Special thanks go out to all of Area 33, AKA the Tent Brigade, Bernie Swiney and David Shelby from Yuchi WMA. Don King, Lee Wilmot, Todd Maszaros, and Jason Harmon came from the Nashville Office. Also, to Dave Gabbard, (who traveled) all the way from Region I, and Region III’s Billy and Anita Swafford, Kirk Miles, Mark Thurman and Chris Simpson from the Non-Game side, and Saundra Gilmore and Bruce Anderson.

The star of the event each year has been the flock of thousands of migrating sandhill cranes that visit the Hiwassee Refuge from late fall to early spring.  Many species of fowled friends were also spotted during the two days. Visitors also had the opportunity to hear presentations by guest speakers. The final days of the event saw very cold temperatures.

The Cherokee-Crane Days is co-sponsored by the Tennessee Wildlife Federation and TWRA in cooperation with Birchwood School, Cherokee Removal Memorial, Ijams Nature Center, and the Tennessee Aquarium.