A Decade of Impact: Celebrating 10 Years of the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy
The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy began in 2016 as a nonprofit partner to Tennessee State Parks. The organization was created from the enthusiasm and dedication of State Parks employees and operated as a supporting organization within the Tennessee State Parks offices.
“The creation of the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy marked an important step forward for our parks. We recognized that by pairing strong public stewardship with private support, we could do more,” said Bob Martineau, former Commissioner of Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation from 2011 to 2018.
Bridging the Funding Gap
Today, the Conservancy operates as an independent 501(c)(3) organization. At its core, the Conservancy bridges the gap between public funding and the growing needs of our state parks.
While a park friends’ group supports a single park, the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy raises funds and awareness for the entire statewide park system. The organization raises private support to fund projects and programs that would not otherwise be possible.
“We can look across all of Tennessee’s state parks and invest where the need—and the opportunity—is greatest. By raising private support and building broad awareness, we help fund critical projects and innovative programs that simply would not be possible otherwise,” explained Cathy Cate, the Conservancy’s board chair.
Getting More Kids Into Parks
From the beginning, the Conservancy focused on getting more kids into parks. It provides school transportation grants that support outdoor learning opportunities for students at Tennessee’s Title 1 schools.
Over the last four years, the program expanded and sent more than 20,000 students on state park field trips.
The numbers matter, but the stories resonate long after each class returns home. When kids share they saw a night sky full of stars for the first time, you never forget it.
Making Parks More Accessible
The Conservancy also helps make Tennessee’s state parks more accessible. It removes barriers so everyone can experience the outdoors.
This work includes all-terrain wheelchairs, accessible kayak launches, colorblind viewers, and adult changing tables. It began with support from Gov. Bill Lee, the General Assembly, and Jim Bryson. Bryson served as Deputy Commissioner for the Bureau of Environment and Conservation, which operates the Tennessee State Parks system.
“Working alongside the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, we were able to expand what it truly means for our parks to be accessible to all Tennesseans,” said Bryson, now Commissioner of Finance and Administration for the State of Tennessee.
Supporting Tennessee’s Trails
Trails are among the most popular features in Tennessee State Parks. Conservancy members support trail construction and maintenance across the park system.
You can support Tennessee’s trails by becoming a member of Trail Pack.
Protecting Tennessee’s Parks
Over the past year, the Conservancy launched an ambitious effort to help secure six strategic land parcels. These properties are essential for creating new state parks and expanding existing ones.
“The future state parks along the Buffalo River and in the Clinch River Valley show what’s possible when strong public leadership and private support come together. The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy has been a vital partner, helping secure key properties, engage donors, and advance projects that benefit all Tennesseans. These parks are lasting investments in conservation, recreation, and our state’s future,” said Brian Clifford, Deputy Commissioner of the Bureau of Environment & Conservation.
A Decade of Impact
The Conservancy’s impact on Tennessee’s state parks over the past decade has been extraordinary.
“The reason behind our work always comes back to our supporters and the stories they share about what these places mean to them,” said Conservancy Executive Director Alex Wyss.
“Those stories include family reunions, weddings, first hikes, and learning to fish with a grandparent.”
Stories That Inspire
The following testimonial from a park champion says it all:
“From Lost Cove to Savage Gulf, we discovered the remarkable gifts of state parks. Dipping through tunnels of mountain laurels, paying homage to giant hemlocks and cucumber magnolia trees, picking our way over ancient roots and rocks, restores my soul, and taking a plunge into an icy cold pool under a rushing waterfall is a baptism like no other!”
Looking Ahead
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we are honored to have supported Tennessee State Parks over the last 10 years. The organization is excited about the impact it will have over the next 10 years.
Conservation, Outdoor Recreation, Park Support, State Parks, Tennessee State Parks Conservancy