Since acquisition by the University of Tennessee in December 2015, Lone Oaks Farm has made tremendous strides toward becoming the national model for connecting youth and adults to the land. One of the Farm’s objectives is to use the outdoors to encourage a deep appreciation for the land, conservation, and agriculture. The transformation from private ownership to what we will come to know in the coming years is still ongoing. That said, the process has been remarkable and brought about even more opportunity than anyone expected.
The last 16 months have been a remarkable journey for the farm where it has hosted over 2,400 people at 120 different events. Events included both youth and adult gatherings, comprised of 4-H camps, church retreats, weddings, reunions, and retreats.
Upon acquisition, the Farm met the needs of and objectives of those it serves as well as any. With that in mind, any transition would require some infrastructural fitting. Limited camping facilities have meant 4-H events have been limited to single day and overnight experiences, that is expected to change soon.
Perhaps one of the Farm’s most notable commitments was the tentative approval from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) for a $2.7 million project grant. The grant will fund the construction of a shotgun facility, including trap, skeet, and sporting clays. Plans also include a classroom for hunter education and firearms safety instruction.
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