The Chattanooga Audubon Society is hosting its first annual friend and fundraising Gala on Feb. 29 from 7-9 p.m. at Southern Belle Riverboat, 151 Riverfront Pkwy in Chattanooga. Cost is $100 per person. For more information, contact Darlene Carlson, executive director, at dcarlson@chattaudubon.org or 423-892-1499.
"The Chattanooga Audubon Society protects and preserves over 450 acres in Hamilton County and is the oldest nature sanctuary in the region," officials said. "Its 130-acre sanctuary property in East Brainerd, Audubon Acres, houses a small museum in its Visitor’s Center, is home to a historic cabin built in the late 1700’s, is the site of an UT archeological dig and houses the CE Blevins Avian Jewels (replica bird egg) Collection.
With over 5 miles of walking trails, and access to South Chickamauga Creek for canoe, kayak, and tubing activities, it is truly a sanctuary in a very busy area of Chattanooga. A lovely, peaceful place for the entire family."
The Chattanooga Audubon Society was founded by Robert Sparks Walker in 1944 and celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2019. Mr. Walker’s novel, Torchlight to the Cherokees, was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and is the inspiration behind the name of the event. Although Mr. Walker gained international fame for his work, his largest impact remains in his native Tennessee. He helped to found the Chattanooga Audubon Society, including preserving his childhood home through Audubon Acres. Mr. Walker has been recognized by the State of Tennessee, as the Lifetime Achievement Award for Environmental Stewardship is given in his name.
Funds raised from this Gala will help Audubon expand its educational offerings to the community, help Audubon to maintain its sanctuary properties, and make needed repairs to existing structures.