Tennessee State Parks is kicking off a "How To" program for greenhorns to the great outdoors to introduce the basics of outdoor recreation to the uninitiated. Starting September 7 at Pickwick Landing State Park, beginners can get their feet wet — quite possibly literally if they're trying kayaking — with several no-cost skill-building sessions.
In an initiative that's as refreshing as a mountain breeze (except we're in Tennessee, so make that a valley zephyr), the state's park department is opening arms wide to those who might not know their stern from their bow or their carabiner from their crankbait. As detailed on the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation website, these programs cover a veritable smorgasbord of outdoor activities, from the serene art of stargazing to the rugged challenges of backpacking.
It's not just about fun and games, though that's surely on the menu. Greer Tidwell, deputy commissioner for Conversation at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, emphasized the inclusive nature of this initiative: "While many of our visitors are well-versed in various recreations in the parks, we recognize that many Tennesseans want to learn the basics of some outdoor recreational activities in order to fully engage and have a great experience," Tidwell told the department's news page. This sentiment is a welcome handhold for those on the edge of exploring nature's bounty.
The push to get more folks outdoors isn't just a local effort; it has some motor under the hood thanks to the Bronco Wild Fund's $15,000 grant. Lest anyone thinks this is merely a PR stunt from the Ford automotive company, the real drive is to foster a deeper connection between people and parks, which Lewis Ledford, CEO of the National Association of State Park Directors, believes is quintessential. Paraphrasing his words from the same department news page, it's not just skills being imparted here — it's the keys to forging lifelong relationships with Mother Nature.
Sessions are capped at a cozy 20 participants each, fostering a group dynamic suitable for learning and laughing in equal measure. With the bonus of free equipment, it's the perfect opportunity to dip a toe in without fear of taking a plunge into the financial deep end. For those interested, a full schedule of the sessions and the scoop on how to sign up can be found on the Tennessee State Parks' website.
