PHOTO BY SUSAN REEVES
milestone moment
Nature’s Calling
Eno River State Park celebrates its 50th anniversary thanks to grassroots heroes, stewards and visitors who respect and advocate for this community gem BY AN N A WESLEY DUB ACH
E
no River State Park Superintendent Kim Radewicz
describes her place of work as an “oasis of nature in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the Triangle.” The idyllic natural haven encompasses more than 4,600 acres of protected area and boasts more than 31 miles of paths along 18 trails. Its remarkable transformation into a cherished destination, which draws close to 1 million visitors a year, owes much to a group of concerned Durham citizens who rallied against the city council’s proposal to dam the Eno for water supply purposes. This grassroots group, initially known as the Association for the Preservation of the Eno River Valley Inc. and now recognized as the Eno River Association, formed in 1966 and
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DID YOU KNOW? You may have encountered herons, turtles or even deer on the trails, but have you seen a beaver, otter or wild turkey? Thanks to several thousand acres of undeveloped wilderness, the park is a home to a wide array of plant and animal life, including some you might never spot yourself. In fact, 14 known rare, threatened and endangered species, like the Neuse River waterdog, can be found in the park.
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quickly took action to save the natural beauty of the river both by raising awareness in the community through organized hikes and canoe trips as well as by engaging public officials and newspapers. Eno River State Park joined the North Carolina State Parks system in 1973; this year, the park celebrates the 50th anniversary of that monumental event. The Eno River State Park and the Eno River Association continue to work closely together on land acquisitions, fundraisers, public recommendation evaluations and events such as EnoFest and the annual First Day Hike at the beginning of each year. “North Carolina State Parks are for everyone,” says Kim, greeting yet another park guest and their pup as they pass her by during our interview. She is an avid believer that a ranger’s job is to not only ensure the safety of