Thurmond Lake park to be operated and maintained by Lincoln County

SAVANNAH, Ga. - A popular day-use recreation facility in Lincoln County is being turned over to the county from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Thurmond Dam and Lake Project entered into a five-year lease with Lincoln County to operate and maintain Cherokee Park.

"Lincoln County's operation of Cherokee Park will allow our county to enhance its recreation program in the coming years," said Wade Johnson, Lincoln County commission chairman. "We intend to keep the park operating at the same level with similar services as to what the public has come to expect from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers."

The park's new operator will honor the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' annual day-use pass until July 1. Groups or individuals wanting to schedule special events, purchase a Lincoln County annual park pass, or rent group shelters at Cherokee Park should contact the Lincoln Co. Planning and Zoning Office at (706) 359-5523.

"This is a great partnering opportunity for the Army Corps of Engineers and Lincoln County. We look forward to a seamless transition with continued quality service for visitors and park improvements to the Cherokee recreation area in the future," said Scott Hyatt, Thurmond Operations Project Manager with the Corps.

Cherokee Park offers a large boat ramp, day-use area with swimming beaches, group shelters and picnic sites. The park is a popular spot with bass fishermen and hosts almost 85,000 visitors annually.

For additional information, contact the Corps' Thurmond Project Office toll free at 1-800-533-3478 or the Lincoln Co. Planning and Zoning Office.