The Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival took place on Friday April 20th and Saturday April 21, 2018 (10:30 AM – 5:30 PM) in Franklin, Louisiana.
Making its first debut in 2004 with its mission to “be the development of an eco-friendly environment for the endangered black bear population that resides in St. Mary Parish” [1].
The Goals of the Festival Include [1]:
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Raising awareness by educating residents of the Louisiana black bear population and its environment in St. Mary Parish
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Assisting with the development of recreational opportunities at the Bayou Teche Wildlife Refuge
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Developing and cultivating an appreciation and respect for the environment
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Providing another opportunity for economic development in St. Mary Parish
Residents from all around the parish including natives of Louisiana and out of state visitors enjoyed the beautiful weather along the Bayou Teche.
CWPPRA’s public outreach team, arrived on the morning of April 21st in the Historic District of Franklin. Community events included, a color run, jambalaya cook-off, wooden boat show, live and digital music, along with multiple food and service vendors for the Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival.
Residents were able to park downtown, then walk to which ever event or vendor they prefer. Families of all shapes and sizes were offered fresh food, hand crafted items, educational literature, and free music.
CWPPRA was fortunate enough to table next to the Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge in which had a wildlife display with a corn snake, soft shell turtle, small American alligator, and other fresh water turtles like the red-eared slider.
CWPPRA made an impact talking with the public about their experiences with wetland restoration and flooding. We met residents from places like Golden Meadow, LA — Wisconsin, and many local residents of Franklin.
Materials Included:
- Protect our coast posters
- Henri Heron’s Activity Book
- Watermarks Magazines
- Understanding CWPPRA
- CWPPRA’s Partners in Restoration Booklet
- Coastal Wetland Restoration: Resident’s Guide
CWPPRA would like to thank the Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival for hosting the event this year, and to the residents who participated in the Festival.
Work Cited:
[1] Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival, 24 April 2018, http://www.bayoutechebearfest.org/index.html.
CWPPRA 