Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 18, 2012
Contact: Julie Buchanan, Senior Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-786-2292, julie.buchanan@dcr.virginia.gov
Public's input is sought on proposed tree canopy adventure course
RICHMOND - A meeting to gather public input about a proposed tree canopy adventure course at Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. Shenandoah River State Park will be May 30 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be in the park visitor center located at 350 Daughter of Stars Drive in Bentonville, Va.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, which manages state parks, is evaluating the proposal from Virginia Canopy Tours LLC. The course would feature a series of above-ground zip-lines, observation areas and platforms. Equipment would be affixed to trees and other supporting devices.
DCR and Virginia Canopy Tours staff will provide more information about the project during the meeting.
Accepting the proposal requires an amendment to the park's master plan. A master plan is written for each state park and serves as a guide for development. Amending a plan is a public process, and public meetings take place when major changes are considered or when new parks are acquired.
DCR is evaluating the proposal under Virginia's Public Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act. The course would be designed, built and, once completed, operated by Virginia Canopy Tours according to existing state laws and regulations. The company would compensate DCR financially for conducting business on park property.
Written comments will be accepted through June 29. Send written comments to: Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Attn. Chuck Wyatt, 203 Governor St., Richmond, VA 23219.