Wildlife Photograph

Ijams as a 300-acre park soon a reality

Saturday December 01, 2007
Imerys Marble properity will add 103 acres

Last month Ijams mailed a letter to all members announcing a spectacular gift of land--103 acres west of Mead's Quarry.  The property was donated by Imerys Marble, Inc. to Legacy Parks Foundation. Following the demolition of derelict limekiln structures, the land will be transferred to the City of Knoxville and added to Ijams' annual city management contract.

What is also special about this gift is that it directly meets one of Ijams' strategic priorities: To acquire adjacent properties, thereby buffering the existing park's wildlife and natural environment. It will also provide for future infrastructure, programmatic expansion, and increased recreational opportunities.

Aside from the structures, and a severely impacted limekiln disposal area, the property contains stunning natural scenery.  The sheer man-made cliffs that were once mined for Tennessee Marble dramatically enhance the ambience of the disused quarry gorge. For a comparison, think of a slice of the Big South Fork only three miles from downtown Knoxville.

In many areas, trails are already in place, formed by old roadbeds, railroad spurs, just enough (illegal) foot traffic, and, unfortunately, ATV users and motorcyclists. In the coming months, points of access to the property will be blocked to discourage the use of motorized vehicles. Official clean-ups, trail improvements and other restoration activities will commence in 2008.

Although a firm timetable for opening the property to the public is as yet undetermined, I hope that you will join the staff and Board of Ijams in looking forward to the day when you can explore almost 300-acres of natural areas at Ijams. That day will be a very special one indeed.

By Paul James

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