In September 2016, because of Julie’s nomination, the Arkansas Master Natu- ralist organization received the National Association of State Park Directors Presi- dent’s Award for their volunteer contribu- tions to Arkansas state parks.


Park programs


Besides the beautiful grounds, trails and campgrounds, the Bull Shoals-White River State Park offers a full schedule of programs, many of which are free to the public.


The James A. Gaston Visitor Center


provides a historical overview of the Bull Shoals Dam, as well as early history en- compassing Osage Indians, settlers, artifacts, and river and lake habitats. The gift shop sells many Arkansas-made items, including candles, soaps, jams, cutting boards, hand towels, art, glass animals and key chains. Guided hikes include nature, wildflower, wild edible, bird,


eagle, owl and night hikes. The park also offers Dutch oven cooking demonstrations and presentations about birds and larger mammals. Other programs include sunset and sunrise tours, lake and river tours, lake kayaking and summer snorkel- ing adventures.


During the summer, youth ages 7-9 and 10-12 can partici- pate in Nature Camps. Throughout the summer and fall, the


34  SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019  LIVING WELL


An American Painted Lady butterfly sips nectar from a black-eyed Susan wildflower at the Bull Shoals-White River State Park.


“I have loved every minute of it. I’m proud of a lot of things I’ve done


here.” Julie Lovett


park offers kayaking courses, taught by in- terpreters certified through the American Canoe Association. In the fall, the park of- fers workshops on a variety of topics. Last year’s workshops included demonstra- tions on soap-making and weaving. A Women’s Outdoor Weekend also is a


fall highlight. Julie created the women’s event, held the first weekend in October, for women of all ages who want to get out and enjoy nature. Each year, registered participants learn different things, such as basic backpacking, camping and beginner fly fishing.


The second weekend in January fea-


tures Eagle Awareness, which offers a myr- iad of programs highlighting eagles and


birds of prey, and includes programs from wildlife rehabilita- tors and the Little Rock Zoo. Looking back over her years at Bull Shoals-White River


State Park, it’s clear to see Julie’s impact at the park. “I have loved every minute of it,” Julie says. “I’m proud of a lot of things I’ve done here.” Her hope is people will remember what they’ve learned at


the park. “The bottom line is to introduce people to things about na-


ture they’re going to remember and hopefully in turn they will want to protect it,” Julie says. “What they learn here impacts everywhere.”


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