Edgar Evins State Park Awarded Excellence In Resource Management

Edgar Evins State Park recognized for Excellence in Resource Management by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.

Park Manager Brad Halfacre said resource management involves taking care of natural resources such as trees and wildflowers to create a “Native Pollinator Corridor.” He said last year the park sprayed, burned, and hydroseeded over one mile of roadside with a native mix of 21 different wildflower species to provide habitat for native pollinators, including bees, birds, and butterflies.

“We’re providing a buffer zone in a way of helping with erosion and also providing this pollinator corridor for our butterfly species, our bee species,” Halfacre said. “And also providing a beautiful viewshed to our visitors by having this, while still maintaining our curbside appeal.”

Halfacre said the project also required some education with park staff. He said previously, maintenance staff would mow the banks and keep the roadway maintained.

While some visitors prefer to see that “maintained” look, Halfacre said park staff can now educate visitors on native plant and animal species within the corridor.

“It’s a lot of work and upkeep but seeing all of the park is in on it,” Halfacre said. “(…) So now we’re seeing guests stop and take their pictures with the plants or in some of them. It’s a great feeling to see our hard work rewarded by getting this reward.”