Bredesen Proclaims April 5-11 Tennessee State Natural Areas Week

NASHVILLE – Governor Phil Bredesen has proclaimed April 5–11 Tennessee State Natural Areas Week, and Tennesseans are encouraged to join in a weeklong celebration with activities such as wildflower hikes, guided tours and volunteer stewardship efforts.

 

“Tennessee's Natural Areas reflect the rich, diverse landscapes of our state,” said Bredesen. “I encourage all Tennesseans to celebrate State Natural Areas Week by getting outdoors to explore these beautiful areas.”

 

The State Natural Areas Program provides long-term protection for rare, threatened and endangered plant and animal life. The program also protects ecologically sensitive areas, areas of geological and archaeological interest and areas of great scenic beauty. First established in 1971 by the Tennessee Natural Areas Preservation Act, there are now 80 state natural areas covering more than 116,000 acres.

 

“Nearly 40 years ago, people all across the country helped put into motion the Natural Areas Preservation Act,” added Environment and Conservation Commissioner Jim Fyke. “Those efforts and that support remain today, as Tennesseans continue to enjoy and appreciate the ecologically significant land found in our great state.” 

 

The week includes a full schedule of events in many of these 80 natural areas. A wide variety of interesting activities – including a privet pull, canoe float, native tree identification programs, and guided wildflower and birding hikes – are planned to engage Tennesseans in appreciating and enjoying these special areas. 

 

For a complete schedule of events and trip details, please visit the Resource Management Division’s state natural areas Web site at: www.tn.gov/environment/na/events/ or call (615) 532-0431. Many activities require reservations, so please call early to ensure an opportunity to participate.

 

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