STATE OUTDOOR NEWS –– Tennessee is one of just seven states to provide free access to all 56 state parks. January is the month to show your appreciation and financially support your favorite Tennessee Stat Park during their annual My TN State Park Fundraiser. After week one, Tims Ford State Park is currently ranked #21 with $225 in donations.

In fact last year, three Southeast Tennessee state parks – Tims Ford, Falls Creek Falls, and Harrison Bay – were among the top four for visitation in the state this fall. Now locals who enjoy area state parks have an opportunity to give back.

On January 1, the Tennessee State Park system launched the fundraiser hoping to raise some much needed revenue and have a little fun in the process. Every $1 donation equals one vote for Tims Ford State Park or any of your other favorites. Every dollar donated goes directly to support the park of your choice and will be used for things like facility upgrades, the Birds of Prey Program, a new childhood education efforts.

Go to tnstateparks.com/vote. Find your favorite park and click donate. The fundraiser will end on Sunday, January 31. The Times will keep you updated on how Tims Ford State Park is doing in the competition around mid-month. •

{The Lynchburg Times is the only independently owned and operated community newspaper in Lynchburg, Tennessee. We cover Metro Moore County government, Jack Daniel’s Distillery, Nearest Green Distillery, Tims Ford State Park, Motlow State Community College, Moore County High School, Moore County Middle School, Lynchburg Elementary, Raider Sports, plus regional and state news.}