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KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) – If you’ve recently visited Warriors’ Path State Park, you might have noticed some exciting developments taking shape on Duck Island, including the establishment of a new meadow.
Park Ranger Ethan Sane shared that the initiative stemmed from discussions among park officials about enhancing the park’s offerings. With the aid of the Iris Fund—a $15,000 grant dedicated to resource management and habitat restoration—the decision was made to revitalize Duck Island for the benefit of the local community.
The new project will introduce a 30-by-40-foot meadow, complete with an array of plants and botanicals designed for both sightseeing and educational engagement. At the heart of this green space, visitors will find a pollinator garden adorned with picnic tables, surrounded by native perennials and shrubs.
“The concept is to create a venue where our rangers can conduct programs that showcase everything you’d encounter on one of our trails, all in one convenient location,” explained Sane. “It’s a microcosm of the park’s natural beauty, right here.”
In addition, the area will feature fruit and nut-bearing trees, aiming to support local wildlife and enhance the park’s ecosystem.
Before restoration, two vacant tennis courts were located on Duck Island, along with damage from Hurricane Helene. Sane told News Channel 11 that the grant brought restoration efforts to return the space to natural life.
Warriors’ Path State Park visitor and retired school teacher Jan Street told News Channel 11 she thinks the renovations will provide educational benefits for all ages.
“You may be able to get schools to bring in classes to teach them and let them learn,” Street said. “Anytime we can have something like that, that’s educational, adds beauty, it’s a win-win for everyone.”
Another Warriors’ Path State Park visitor, Tim Briscoe, said the meadow will be a nice addition to the park’s scenery for those who visit for exercise.
“There’s a path all the way around Duck Island so people can see it no matter what direction they go,” Briscoe said. “I think that’s great and most people live close by and will want to come here when they’re out exercising or walking.”
According to Sane, the majority of the project should be completed by the summer.
Volunteers are needed to help remove invasive plant species on March 28 so that native botanical flowers can be introduced. With 30 people signed up, the total goal is upwards of 60. Breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. at the park. Volunteer work will start at 9:00 a.m. and last through lunch. Visitors are encouraged to stop by to volunteer. Click here to learn more.