At a ceremony on Tuesday during the 28th Annual Environment Virginia Symposium, Roanoke County was honored with a 2017 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award for the Explore Park Adventure Plan.

The county received an honorable mention certificate in the category of Virginia Outdoors Plan Implementation for its recently completed vision for the facility.

Governor’s Excellence Award winners were recognized for successes in reducing their own environmental footprint, sustainability services and being examples to others as well as actions they have taken to preserve important natural landscapes for future generations. The awards were presented by the Governor’s Secretary of Natural Resources, DEQ Director and DCR Director.

The Explore Park Adventure Plan outlines key environmental preservation recommendations while providing tools for public interpretation of the park’s unique natural and cultural history. A special places report contained in the plan was prepared by nationally recognized naturalist Michael Gaige.

Explore Park is a 1,100-acre park located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 115.

Proposals are currently being accepted for adventure recreation development for amenities including an Aerial Adventure Course, Overnight Accommodations, Food Services, Retail Services, Programs and Special Events. Submissions are due back to Roanoke County’s Purchasing Department by Thursday, May 17.

Development of the facility is guided by the Explore Park Adventure Plan adopted by the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors in August 2016. For complete details about the plan, visit http://www.ExplorePark.org/AdventurePlan.