Another Neighborhood/Civic Achievement award is given to one of the most significant conservation achievements in the county's history...the creation of the Seven Islands Wildlife Refuge. This refuge, which spans the French Broad River at the eastern edge of the county, was created through the collaborative efforts of the Seven Islands Foundation and Knox County. A few years ago, Pete Claussen formed the foundation and began to set aside protected habitat. He then approached Knox County to conserve additional land and make modest improvements for hiking, wildlife observation and river access. County Executive Tom Schumpert and Park Director Doug Bataille worked with the foundation to realize the larger refuge. If you go there, you'll see birds and butterflies of every description. If you're fortunate enough, you may see an eagle sweeping down to the river and deer foraging in the meadows. Over 350 acres, as well as its historic farm buildings, have been conserved.

The foundation's gift is the largest land transfer for recreation purposes since TVA's assistance in the 1950s and represents the largest private gift ever. The refuge will be a treasured place for future generations to come.

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