Friends of the Smokies
Mission: Friends of the Smokies is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the preservation and protection of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As an official partner of the National Park Service, it works to enhance the park's ecological health, visitor experience, and cultural heritage.
Founded: 1993
Region Served: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Independence Note: This profile is independently researched and provided for educational purposes. Art for Our Parks is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or partnered with Friends of the Smokies. Artists apply and donate directly through the organization’s official website.
Why This Matters to Artists
Artists can help highlight the beauty, biodiversity, and conservation efforts of the Smokies. Through artwork, photography, and creative storytelling, artists can inspire public engagement, raise awareness of ecological challenges, and celebrate the park’s natural and cultural treasures.
Quick Facts
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Forest restoration, wildlife protection, native plant conservation, trail maintenance
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Hemlock restoration, Cades Cove habitat recovery, support for Appalachian Bear Rescue, Ginseng conservation
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Trail work, habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, educational programs
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Tax-exempt nonprofit organization
Programs & Impact
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Since 2003, treated over 280,000 trees and released 570,000+ predator beetles to combat the invasive pest and restore hemlock populations.
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Funds prescribed burns and mechanical treatments to restore historic fields, encourage native plants, and reduce invasive species.
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Supports Appalachian Bear Rescue and installs food storage cable systems at backcountry campsites to reduce human-bear conflicts.
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Marks ginseng roots to deter illegal harvesting and protect this valuable native plant species.
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Partners with the National Park Service to fund a full-time trail crew restoring high-use trails like Rainbow Falls Trail, while engaging volunteers in hands-on conservation efforts.
Ways Artists Can Help
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Ways Artists Can Help *
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Celebrate the park’s landscapes, wildlife, and restoration projects.
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Participate in trail work, habitat restoration, or wildlife monitoring.
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Support conservation projects, trail crews, and wildlife initiatives.
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Inspire public awareness and action through art highlighting the Smokies’ natural and cultural treasures.
Call To Action:
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Call To Action: *
Support the Great Smoky Mountains: Donate / Learn More
Explore Volunteer Opportunities & Programs: Visit Friends of the Smokies
Independence Note: Art for Our Parks is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or partnered with this organization. Artists interact directly with the organization through the official website.