Environment and Conservation Increasing Patrols and Surveillance at Piney Falls State Natural Area
GRANDVIEW, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is increasing patrols and surveillance at Piney Falls State Natural Area in Rhea County in an effort to protect the site from ongoing trespassing and vandalism. A new gate has also been installed and illegal access points blocked.
Because there are sensitive species located at Piney Falls, only foot traffic is allowed in the natural area. It is open for day use from sunrise to sunset. Parking and hiking trails are provided. The 440-acre site features pristine forestland with creeks, deep gorges, waterfalls and old growth forest. There are virgin white pine and hemlock trees found in the gulfs created by Little Piney Creek and Soak Creek. Piney Falls State Natural Area is one of 14 places in Tennessee registered by the U.S. Department of Interior as a National Natural Landmark.
Unfortunately, off-road vehicles have damaged the entry road and other areas of the site and have helped spread invasive species further into the natural area. Trespassers camping illegally have increased the amount of broken bottles and litter, cut trees for campfires and created unwanted trails through the forest.
The state natural areas program is working with Tennessee State Parks to increase ranger patrols at Piney Falls in an effort to protect the natural resources at the site and maintain a clean, peaceful environment for visitors. As a state natural area, Piney Falls is protected under the Natural Areas Preservation Act of 1971. Those who violate the Act are subject to legal action. The department encourages visitors to enjoy the recreational benefits of Piney Falls within the confines of the rules governing the management of this area, which include trail hiking. Motorized vehicles, alcohol and camping are not permitted at this site.
For more information about Piney Falls State Natural Area, visit the website at http://tn.gov/environment/na/natareas/piney/.
###