(tn.gov/Peg Broadcasting News)
Gov. Bill Lee has designated March 31 as Mack S. Prichard Day, honoring Tennessee’s first state naturalist and state archeologist.
Prichard, who died last year at 81, built a career of state service beginning at age 16. He worked to conserve Tennessee’s landscape and was instrumental in the acquisition of more than 40 sites for Tennessee State Parks, natural areas and archeological areas.
Mack Prichard was known throughout Tennessee for presenting slideshows, leading hikes and informing outdoors enthusiasts about wildlife and native plants. Prichard’s writings, presentations and thousands of photographs can be found at www.mackprichard.com.
Last year a $2.4 million visitors center named for Prichard opened at Cummins Falls State Park near Cookeville.