Thirty years ago, Dale Hollow Lake was celebrating 50th anniversary, along with the founding of Friends of Dale Hollow Lake. In the past 30 years, the Friends of Dale Hollow Lake has provided countless hours of service to raise funds, assist in clean-ups and events, and participate in enhancement projects in partnership with the Corps of Engineers.
Almost every month since 1993, the group has had something positive to offer the public. At the 75th anniversary of the lake, the friends helped with tours of the powerhouse and other celebratory activities. The group has assisted with public lands day, cleaned up large amounts of trash from the lake, helped with the Kids Fishing Rodeo, trail maintenance, and events such as Eagle Watch tours, where they’ve provided hot refreshments and a friendly welcome.
“No matter what they’re involved in, the group gives it their all,” said Crystal Tingle, Dale Hollow Lake Resource Manager. “It is awe-inspiring to see the passion and involvement within the group that is kind enough to donate their time to Dale Hollow Lake.”
There are many reasons people have become involved with the group. President of the Friends of Dale Hollow Lake Kinion Dunn said, “The Friends of Dale Hollow Lake is a caring and dedicated group who make a difference by improving the lake. My youngest son’s Boy Scout Eagle project was to clear the trail between Lilly Dale and Willow Grove campgrounds. The Friends of Dale Hollow Lake honored his contribution by placing commemorative placards at the trail heads. Ever since, I have enjoyed the group’s dedication and enthusiasm for the lake.”
At their December meeting and Christmas Party, Dale Hollow Lake Park Ranger Desmaray Brown presented the friends with a custom gavel to signify the importance and impact of their 30 years of service. The gavel is a small token of appreciation for all their hard work throughout the last three decades. One member stated, “It is meaningful to be a part of the Friends Dale Hollow Lake because we’re able to help promote and protect the lake and all the wonderful amenities that the Corps of Engineers provide.”
If you love Dale Hollow and want to be a part of the protection and preservation of its natural beauty, the friends are a like-minded group who would love for you to join their team! The Friends of Dale Hollow Lake, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting and conserving Dale Hollow and supporting the Corps of Engineers. For membership information, call 931-243-3136.