Clarksville, TN – The Friends of Dunbar Cave are pursuing a purchase of 30 acres adjacent to Clarksville’s only state park, Dunbar Cave State Natural Area (DCSNA). The 30 acres, known as the Ritter-Caroland property, is the only remaining property contiguous to the park that is undeveloped.
The current park consists of 110 acres. This additional 30 acres would greatly expand the size of the park, as well as protect the environment of the area which includes the Red River Watershed (the drainage system for the park.)
“The park has more than 250,000 visits per year and is of great cultural and historical importance to our community, in addition to the bio-diversity and delicate ecosystem it supports,” stated Senseney. ” We have received a wonderful donation of $150,000 from the Jaycees Foundation towards the purchase of the property. Their generous act of giving back to the community will be coupled with state funding in order to buy the land.”
He added, “We have received enthusiastic support from our State Legislative Delegation in this effort. We are very hopeful that we can purchase this land for this special part of our community.”
However, help the Friends of Dunbar Cave’s voice be heard, by contacting Clarksville-Montgomery County legislative delegates. Their contact information is provided below:
- Senator Mark Green, 615.741.2374, sen.mark.green@capitol.tn.gov
- Rep. Joe Pitts, 615.741.2043, rep.joe.pitts@capitol.tn.gov
- Rep. Curtis Johnson, 615.7471.4341, rep.curtis.johnson@capitol.tn.gov
- Rep. John Tidwell, 615.741.7098, rep. john.tidwell@capitol.tn.gov
The public can also help expand the park by donating to the Friends of Dunbar Cave Land Acquisition Fund.
Checks can be made out to:
Friends of Dunbar Cave
P.O. Box 254
Clarksville, TN, 37041
Donations can also be made at our website, http://www.dunbarcave.org.
For more information, please contact the Friends at friendsofdunbarcave@gmail.com.
The Friends of Dunbar Cave is a 501 c-3, non-profit organization of volunteers who support the Dunbar Cave State Natural Area.
