Natural Areas Week April 7-13, 2008

Governor Phil Bredesen has proclaimed April 7-13 Tennessee State Natural Areas Week, and Tennesseans are encouraged to join in a weeklong celebration with activities like wildflower hikes and guided tours.

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 77 state natural areas covering approximately 110,000- acres.

The week includes a full schedule of events in many of these 77 natural areas. A wide variety of interesting activities – including driving tours, cave exploration and wildflower or birding hikes – are planned to engage Tennesseans in appreciating and enjoying these special places.

For trip details and a complete schedule of events, visit http://www.tn.gov/environment/na/ and click on “Natural Areas Week” or call (615) 532-0431. The full text of the news release from the Department of Environment and Conservation is provided below:

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News Release - 2008 Natural Areas Week

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