Register Now for Tennessee Greenways and Trails Forum

Forum Will Be Held April 24-26 at Montgomery Bell State Park

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s Greenways and Trails program will hold a forum at Montgomery Bell State Park April 24-26, 2013, which will be hosted by the department’s Recreation Educational Services Division and the Commissioner’s Council on Greenways and Trails.

The 2013 Tennessee Greenways and Trails Forum is a three-day educational workshop and networking conference, designed for parks and recreational professionals, planners and city and county officials.  This year’s theme is “Walk, Ride and Float! What’s Your Favorite Trail Type?” and forum sessions will highlight the impact of greenways and trails in Tennessee’s communities, such as improving health and combating obesity, promoting economic development and tourism, providing alternative transportation opportunities and connecting people to nature.

Charles A. “Chuck” Flink, president of Greenways/Alta Planning, will serve as the keynote speaker on April 25. Widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading greenway planners, Flink has completed comprehensive greenway and open space plans for more than 225 communities in 35 states and is an award-winning author.

Carol Evans, executive director of Legacy Parks Foundation, will also be a featured speaker.  With more than 20 years in marketing, public relations and event management, Evans’ experience includes establishing corporate marketing initiatives for the Scripps Networks and developing marketing and fundraising campaigns for multiple clients.  Evans served as the first marketing director for the University of Tennessee’s Lady Vols. During her tenure, the program set national attendance records in several sports, including basketball.

“The Tennessee Greenways and Trails Forum is a great opportunity for parks and recreation professionals to learn the latest trends in greenways and trails, make new contacts and strengthen existing relationships,” said Bob Richards, Greenways and Trails Coordinator. “The forum will feature expert presenters in addition to a variety of diverse field trips and educational sessions.”

Advanced registration received prior to April 6 is $75. Registration received after April 6 is $100. Interested students will receive a special $25 rate. Registration fees include access to the event, educational sessions, networking events, workshops, field trips and lunch and dinner on Thursday. For hotel accommodations, conference attendees will receive a rate of $77 (excluding tax) at Montgomery Bell State Park Inn by calling 615- 797-3101 by March 14 and mentioning Tennessee Greenways and Trails.

The Tennessee Greenways and Trails program encourages communities to save their special green spaces, promote the volunteer spirit of Tennesseans and work to preserve and conserve the natural and cultural resources that make each community in the state special.

More information on the 2013 Tennessee Greenways and Trails Forum, including a list of speakers, an official event brochure, event sponsors and online registration can be found at http://www.tn.gov/environment/recreation/.    

###