Jacob Young, a former DeKalb County resident, became the new park manager at Edgar Evins State Park on March 1.
Young, the son of Sherry Williams and grandson of Georgia and Morris Young grew up in Liberty. He attended DeKalb West School and DeKalb County High School before earning his degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Science from Tennessee Tech in Cookeville.
"When I graduated college I went to work at Edgar Evins State Park as a seasonal interpretive ranger working under Mr. Carl Halfacre," Young said. "I quickly fell in love with Tennessee State Parks that summer and shortly after that I was hired as a fulltime park ranger at Roan Mountain State Park in Carter County. I have been at Roan Mountain for 10 years. I worked there eight years as a ranger and the last two years as the park manager."
He and his wife, Crystal, have been married for 11 years. They have three children: Madyson 8, Kylie 5, and Hunter 1. They are currently in the process of adopting the younger two.
"I love state parks", Young added, "It is an honor for me to know that we are providing quality outdoor opportunities for our friends, family, and especially our children. I firmly believe in a park that is clean and well maintained, that offers ample opportunities for the visitor’s, recreational and educational, that has a knowledgeable and courteous staff, and works closely with the public, officials, media, local business, etc. These are some of the things I have been able to accomplish at Roan Mountain, and we will strive for this success at Edgar Evins. God has blessed me and my family in so many ways, and we are excited about this new opportunity."
Fount Bertram, president of Friends of Edgar Evins State Park, said that while the retiring Halfacre will be missed, he looks forward to working with Young. "The Friends of Edgar Evins State Park had a very special regard for Carl Halfacre. We are expecting to also have a great working relationship and friendship with the new manager as well. We are looking forward to working with Mr. Young to enhance the park experience for all."
There is more information about Edgar Evins State Park on the internet at http://www.tnstateparks.com/EdgarEvins and on Facebook. For more information about the Friends of Edgar Evins State Park go to http://foeesp.alturl.com/ or at www.facebook.com/friendsofeesp