Fall Creek Falls Named Excellence in Facilities Management

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) named Fall Creek Falls State Park the winner of the 2018 Excellence in Facilities Management Award.

Parks and Conservation Deputy Commissioner Brock Hill said the award took into account many operations of Fall Creek Falls.

Fall Creek Falls Park Manager Jacob Young Accepts Excellence Award. (Photo: TN State Parks)

“This recognition is extremely significant in that it encompasses the many operations conducted throughout the entire perimeter of Fall Creek Falls, including the grounds, natural areas, trails, cabins, and camping facilities,” said Brock Hill, “Several facility upgrades, such as fresh paint and new roofs, have been made. Staff has removed many invasive plants in the area around our newly renovated Betty Dunn Nature Center and removed potentially dangerous timber. These combined efforts are appreciated by our millions of visitors each year.”

A press release states that Tennessee State Parks nominated for the Facilities Management Award demonstrate excellence in the care of the park and facilities.

Other award criteria include facility, preventative, grounds and trail maintenance, and cleanliness of the park.

The Excellence in Facilities Management Award also recognizes the grounds workers, maintenance crew, building staff, housekeeping crew, office personnel, rangers, supervisors and all seasonal and part-time employees.

Fall Creek Falls worked on a number of capital maintenance projects in 2018, including the nature center, gift shop renovations, and the sewer project.

In 2018, all state parks installed interior and exterior recycling bins, contributing to the overall cleanliness of park grounds.