Tennessee State Parks will hold public meetings across the state in the coming weeks to discuss site management plans specific to 14 parks.

The plan for each park is part of a 10-year Comprehensive Strategic Plan that guides the operations of all 62 state parks in Tennessee. Each park plan is required to be reviewed and updated within that period.

The meetings are an opportunity to hear more about the plans from each park’s staff with an opportunity for public response. The parks have developed specific strategic management proposals and are inviting input about those objectives. The in-person meetings will be held at or near the individual parks.

Key components of the plans for each park focus on the four cornerstones of park management: resource stewardship; visitor experience; facilities and amenities; and operational excellence.

“Public input is vital to the continued success of our state parks,” said Greer Tidwell, deputy commissioner of Conservation for the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. “These meetings are a fun opportunity for Tennesseans to help shape the future of our state parks and fulfill our mission to preserve, protect, and share Tennessee’s natural and cultural resources while providing safe and quality outdoor experiences.”

The meetings will be from Nov. 10 through Jan. 8. The closest meeting to Lynchburg will take place at the following:

Booker T. Washington State Park, Thursday, Nov. 13, 5:30 p.m., Booker T. Washington Assembly Hall, 5871 Champion Rd., Chattanooga, TN  37416

David Crockett State Park, Tuesday, Dec. 9, 5:30 p.m., The Restaurant at David Crockett State Park, 245 Crockett Park Road, Lawrenceburg, TN 38464

Comments by mail should be addressed to: Attn: Liz Campbell, Davy Crockett Tower, 500 James Robertson Parkway, 8th floor, Nashville, TN 37243

A theme throughout the plans is the commitment to a high-quality parks system that delivers world-class parks, trails, and facilities, is known regionally and nationally for its standard of excellence and supports unique outdoor recreation opportunities for all. This comes while contributing to local economies and the quality of life in Tennessee. 

Comments will be accepted through Jan. 31 in an online survey or via mail.

Anyone interested in the Comprehensive Strategic Plan, the individual park plan updates, and the meeting schedule can go to this link. Go to this link to access the online survey and provide comments.•

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