Blue Ridge Parkway hosts informational open house in Roanoke on May 1

The National Park Service invites the public to attend the 2018 Blue Ridge Parkway Season Preview, a showcase of upcoming Parkway activities and projects. The event takes place on Tuesday, May 1, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Virginia’s Blue Ridge Visitor Center in Roanoke.

Parkway staff will provide a “behind the scenes” look into projects and operations to promote awareness and understanding among Parkway communities, neighbors and visitors of the National Park Service’s stewardship mission.

The event will highlight multiple initiatives organized into information stations. Park staff will be available at each station to answer questions and discuss projects such as restoration of historic facilities including Humpback Rocks Farm, vista management, resource education initiatives, and more.

“We’re excited to welcome park neighbors, visitors, and all those who love this place, to spend time learning about how our management decisions today translate into projects that serve to protect our resources and enhance visitor experiences for years to come,” said J.D. Lee, incoming Parkway Superintendent. “We know events like this one are important outreach opportunities and a model for building meaningful relationships with our park neighbors and stewards.”

Representatives from Parkway partner groups including the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Blue Ridge Parkway Association will also be on hand to discuss the roles each group plays to support the Parkway and how to get involved in this work. Additionally, representatives from Roanoke County will be on hand to describe ongoing programs and upcoming projects at Explore Park.

The Blue Ridge Parkway’s mission, as one of 418 units of the National Park Service, is to protect a vast array of natural and cultural resources across the park while at the same time providing opportunities for education, enjoyment and inspiration for this and future generations. In order to maintain and manage these resources, numerous projects are identified and implemented each year across the 469-mile Parkway.  The May 1 event invites the public to share in this stewardship mission.