Rock Island one of 39 state parks across Tennessee participating in Tennesse Promise Saturday on June 25th.
Park Ranger Ethan Greene said that the event occurs annually as a way to help Tennessee Promise scholars get last-minute volunteer hours. He said that the service work varies at each state park, and Rock Island State Park will focus on removing an invasive species of plant called “tree of heaven.”
“So we’ll be working on the hillside of the Twin Falls side of the park which is one of our more scenic areas,” Greene said. “And we’ll be taking those trees down and treating them carefully. By removing them it allows for more room for those rare sunflowers that grow there to expand.”
Greene said that the clean-up day is not just for Tennessee Promise scholars. He said that any who wants to give back to the community is welcome to sign up to volunteer at the park’s website.
Greene said that long pants, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and lots of water are recommended. He said that tools for clean-up will be provided.
“If you’ve never been involved with your state park I encourage you to recognize the value that it brings to your community,” Greene said. “So if you’re living in an area that you live close to a state park, even within an hour, that place has an influence on your community. I would encourage you that if you have never gotten involved with your state park just get out there and see what’s going on.”
Greene said that people might be amazed to see what kind of resources are available and what kinds of people you can meet at your local state park.
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