TN State Natural Areas Week offers a variety of opportunities, including guided wildflower hikes
Special Activities Across Tennessee Celebrate the State Natural Areas Preservation Act
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.