At the dawn of the 20th century Dawson Springs flourished as a nationally known health resort with a thriving tourism business, ties to major league baseball, and unique, natural features with supporting infrastructure. Dawson Springs seeks to rejuvenate its tourism industry to regional and national prominence during the twenty-first century. This can be accomplished by building on the strong foundation of extremely rich history, culture, and tradition that is well documented and appreciated today. Unique natural features with historical significance and recovered wildlife resources abound, awaiting interpretation and wise use. All components in this plan, when established or implemented, should be complimentary and supportive of the over-all tourism/education mission in every possible way.

The Tradewater River borders the city on the south, west, and north. The river and surrounding woodlands are being developed into a recreational asset for the community. The largest state-owned forest in Kentucky, Pennyrile Forest, is located just south of Dawson Springs and encompasses the Pennyrile Forest State Park. The forest provides enormous potential for development as a site to attract naturalists, environmentalists, and nature and outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the state forest, two state-owned wildlife management areas are located within five miles of Dawson Springs. The Tradewater Wildlife Management Area and the Jones-Keeney Wildlife Management Area add to the potential for tourism development for the community.

One of the most important assets of the Dawson Springs community as it relates to quality of life is the abundance of recreational opportunities for the citizenry. The area is blessed with tremendous natural resources conducive to recreational use. The community has immediate access to well preserved and managed wildlife resources, recreational water resources, state parks, US Park Service- managed nature areas, golf courses, and Kentucky and Barkley Lakes, which together, are the largest man-made lakes in the United States. These resources provide the nature lover and outdoor enthusiast with almost unlimited opportunity for excitement and pleasure.

The city’s water source, Lake Beshear, has been recognized as one of the fifteen top bass producing lakes in the state of Kentucky and provides boating, skiing, and sightseeing opportunities for visitors to the community. The state’s third largest whitetail deer population is found in Hopkins County and attracts hunters from across the state and from other states as well. The area has abundant populations of wild turkey and other game animals to attract hunters with varied interests.

From a cultural and historic point of view, the community is ripe with other assets ready to be developed. A number of sites that pre-date Dawson Springs history were utilized by native Americans, but are not well known or publicized. These sites must be preserved for history, and developed for all to experience.

The lower Tradewater River, from the milldam at Riverside Park, to and beyond Olney, is rich with beauty, interesting geologic formations, and wildlife. Any plan development should include provisions for canoeing/kayaking along this scenic waterway.

The rich history of the Dawson Springs community as a mineral water "spa" town provides the potential for substantial tourism development and sightseeing. The history and architecture evident in the downtown business district creates substantial curiosity for the visitor to the community. Properly managed, the economic potential of this rich resource could be almost unlimited.

The historical presence, disappearance and return of the region’s wildlife through modern resource stewardship is demonstrated by the return of bald eagles, ospreys, white-tailed deer, river otters and the eastern wild turkey as a few examples. Strengths in natural areas present today include a large amount of acreage managed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Areas include Pennyrile State Resort Park, Pennyrile State Forest, Tradewater Wildlife Management Area, Lake Beshear, Jones-Keeny Wildlife Management Area, the University of Kentucky's 4-H Camp, Peabody Wildlife Management Area, and the Tradewater River. Land areas for the most part are mature, old growth forest.

Tradewater River Basin

The Pennyroyal region is drained by the upper Tradewater River. It is mostly a ridge and valley area characterized by long, somewhat steep slopes. The northeastern side of this plateau is drained by the tributaries of the Tradewater River Basin while the drainage from the southwestern side flows into the Lower Cumberland. The Tradewater River originates in northwestern Christian County and flows northwest for 132 miles to the Ohio River. The basin includes 520 miles of streams draining an area of 943 square miles. Major tributaries important to the development of this plan include Piney Creek, Donaldson Creek, and Clear Creek. Lake Beshear is the largest impoundment (reservoir) in the basin. Quality fishing in the Tradewater River is a fact, but still a well kept secret.

A new boat ramp and steps have been installed to enhance river access. A canoe/kayak rental business is open today making river trips possible again. A canoe trail brochure and map features several historic natural sites along the river.

Within the past few years, under the direction of the Pennyrile Area Development District, the Tradewater Resource Conservation District was organized and is comprised of representation by all counties including or bordering the Tradewater River. One of the primary objectives of this district is to develop the Tradewater Basin as a tourism resource while improving and protecting the quality of its water, flora, fauna, and wildlife.

The Tradewater River was once used by settlers to transport goods via flatboats. It may be worthwhile to study this historical issue in depth to determine whether tourism assets could be developed in conjunction with others that either exist or have potential.

Additional canoes and kayaks are needed to handle larger group participation. Ground transportation needs to be available to transport guests from river take out locations to starting locations. Inadequate marketing and promotion resulted in the demise of Tradewater Station.

Many canoe/river rafting routes have primitive camping facilities and multiple take-out points available. Thus far, these have not been developed along the upper Tradewater. While adequate take-out points already exist, insufficient effort has been made to map the Canoe Trail or the take-out points, or to provide such maps to users until this year(2005).

Horse and buggy rides could offer a historical perspective to fill this transportation need for the historic river route at Dawson Springs. A strong potential exists to develop an "Outward Bound" type adventure and educational program utilizing the river’s assets and educational opportunities for both tourists and disadvantaged youth. An excellent opportunity for expanded use lies with the potential for opening the "White City Tours" business once again.

River Obstructions—Annual flooding and irresponsible harvesting of timber reserves, along with the continuing practice of illegal dumping create an ongoing difficulty in keeping the canoe trail passable. Currently, only one volunteer has shown any interest in maintenance of the stream trails.

Water Quality—Contaminated and polluted water runoff continues to plague efforts to improve the quality of some segments of the Tradewater River. This runoff occurs primarily during the wet winter months and is noticeably absent during the more moderate and dry months.

Lack of cooperation of private landowners—Private landowners continue to dump trash into the river at various points. In addition, some of these landowners are actively blocking river flow and impeding negotiation of the river trails by harvesting timber from the river bank while allowing the felled tree tops to fall into the river.

Absence of freshwater shower faciilties @ take-out points at strategic locations—

The Tradewater River is known for its muddy, steep banks. Users of the trails routinely exit the river with wet, muddy clothes and equipment. Only recently, has the community implemented provisions to address this problem.

Local Residents—The Tradewater has, in recent years, because of improving water quality, returned to use the river’s assets. During the first two quarters of 2005, Riverside Park management documented the fishing use of the milldam and boat ramp areas adjacent to Riverside Park at an average of 13 individuals/day(May-July).

Area Residents—Because of the environmental damage done to the Tradewater Basin by past mining practice, only recently has the river begun to recover its reputation as a scenic outdoor attraction. Area users are just beginning to visit again, and consist primarily of those interested in the water quality and environmental quality of the river basin.

Regional Canoe/Kayak Enthusiasts—Kentucky is blessed with more miles of waterways than any state other than Alaska. However, local communities and state tourism officials have long overlooked the rich river resources available and have taken no steps to develop a support infrastructure to build upon this great potential asset. Therefore, current regional attraction to these assets is limited to those who search out flatwater canoeing and kayaking adventures.

Environmental Conservation Groups—Recently, the Tradewater/Green River Basin has become a targeted location for groups like the Kentucky Water Sentinals, the Sierra Club, and other environmental watch groups. Annually, these groups are sponsoring and promoting river related activities in this area.

Promotional Brochure—Two promotional brochures profiling the trail system and Riverside Park have been produced. However, the only distribution points for these brochures have been the rest stops along I-24 and the Western Kentucky Parkway, and City Hall.

Word-of-Mouth Referrals—The primary marketing of the River and trail system are currently conducted by this method. Exit interviews reveal that, on balance, the overwhelming majority of users found out about the river and trails from friends or business associates and left with an overall positive experience, indicating their intent to return to the sites.

Tradewater Pirate Baseball Marketing—TPB utilizes the river and trails in its marketing of corporate outings and sponsorships for baseball related events. On average, six times per year, corporate sponsors utilize the canoes and river as a part of the recreational package provided in return for their corporate dollars.

Poor—Much remains to be done in creating a bona-fide tourism asset in the Tradewater Canoe Trail. Currently, no formal marketing and/or promotional system exists. This shortcoming has been identified and the DSEDG is formulating plans to market the assets accordingly.

Pennyrile Forest

The Pennyrile Forest was created in 1930, when the Division of Forestry acquired leases on land in Christian, Hopkins and Caldwell counties totaling 14,654 acres. In 1954, the property was deeded (with certain reservations) by the U. S. government to the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Pennyrile State Forest is managed for sustainable timber production. The Division of Forestry and the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources have jointly managed several projects, including turkey and grouse restoration projects. The area is open to public hunting and fishing, subject to state fish and game regulations, and is available for primitive camping, hiking, mountain biking and picnicking.

The Pennyrile Trail System, stretching 12 1/2 miles through the Pennyrile Forest, currently links the Dawson Springs community to Pennyrile Forest State Park, utilizing a scenic hiking trail with quality interpretive signage. The foot trail passes through a variety of forest habitats with sections near Lake Beshear. A new very high quality bridge connects the hiking trail to the Tradewater Station at the city's southern border. In addition, loop trails and sixty-five miles of mountain bike routes intersect the forest.

Pennyrile Forest and the State Resort Park are commonly referred to as the "best kept secrets" in western Kentucky. While the Kentucky Parks System produces marketing materials and videos to promote the area, it remains underutilized due to a lack of focus in marketing efforts.

At one time, a horseback riding facility was managed within the Pennyrile Forest. With a recent resurgence of interest in horseback riding, the forest remains a tremendous potential asset. With proper leases and agreements in place, the horseback trails and wranglers camps could once again capture a significant portion of tourists interested in this type of activity.

The forest also presents great potential for the development of extensive backpack trails with primitive overnight camp shelters. This asset could be developed in much the same manner as the Appalachian Trail within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

Ever-increasing fiscal demands vs. shortages

Tradewater Wildlife Management Area

Located along the southern corporate limit of the city of Dawson Springs, the Tradewater Wildlife Management Area borders both sides of KY 109 South. Access to the area is from the highway and from Tradewater Canoe Livery, a local canoe/kayak livery service. The management area consists of 724 acres containing steep, hilly terrain, steep bluffs overlooking Tradewater River, rock overhangs, and small caves. Hiking and birdwatching are permitted, and, during specified seasons, hunting is allowed on a limited basis.

Natural beauty, interesting rock formations, scenic bluffs, and abundant wildlife provide something for every nature lover. The area is easily accessible and has some marked trails.

Currently, camping is prohibited, and there is a shortage of marked trails.

With the cooperation of the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife, additional trails could be developed, and one or more primitive camping areas could be established.

This study revealed no current or potential threats to the WMA.

Not Applicable

Jones/Keeney Wildlife Management Area

The Jones/Keeney Wildlife Management Area is comprised of 1,600 acres, located about six miles from the Dawson Springs city limits on U.S 62. The area is home to hilly terrain, forests, much of which is considered old growth, and has limited clearings in some bottom and ridge areas. A substantial vertical bluff lies along the western boundary, providing breathtaking views. The area contains abundant and varied wildlife and birds but contains only a few limited trails and roads.

The old growth forests, deer, wild turkey, and scenic overlooks make Jones/Keeney a wonderful place to observe nature at its best. Almost every nature lover can find a wealth of enjoyment from meandering through this area. The entire area is undeveloped and primitive, with no structures, houses, or farmland interrupting its pure natural attraction.

Currently, access by motorcycles, four-wheelers, and other off-road vehicles is banned, protecting the pristine, natural condition that makes the area so inviting.

The size of the area make it conducive to the design, layout, and construction of primitive hiking/backpacking trails. An extensive network of trails could be established throughout the area, tying the entire area to the developing Pennyrile Trail System.

Very few trails and roadways exist throughout the management area, forcing the sightseer to wander through vast areas of old growth forests, with no obvious sense of direction. It is almost sure that first time visitors will become disoriented and lost while hiking or backpacking. This weakness prevents many from experiencing the finer points of the area. The area is owned and operated by the Kentucky Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, and current policy prevents rock climbing and repelling, two sports that attracted many visitors prior to the ban.

If cooperative agreements with state agencies could be established, a series of marked trails and primitive camping facilities could be developed in the area, increasing its attractiveness to existing visitors, while attracting a new group of individuals with other interests.

Hunters

Limited # of Hikers

Limited to Expenditures of Hunters

Lake Beshear

Located off KY 672 just two miles from Dawson Springs, Lake Beshear was formed when Piney Creek was dammed in 1964 to provide a water source for Dawson Springs and provide flood control in the Tradewater Basin. The 857 acre impoundment is known state-wide for the quality of fishing for bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie. A variety of water sports may be enjoyed on the lake, including sailing, powerboating, and water-skiing.

The two tributaries feeding Lake Beshear, Piney Creek and Clifty Creek, create two separate and distinct areas in which boating and fishing can be segregated. This allows both boaters and fishermen to enjoy the lake without infringing upon the other. The secret is out that the next state record, largemouth bass will likely be caught at Lake Beshear.

The Lake Beshear Dam is located adjacent to the Pennyrile Forest and the Tradewater Wildlife Refuge, tying all three attractions together at a common point. In addition, the dam's spillway feeds water directly into the Tradewater River. With the confluence of these attractions at one point, the potential for developing contiguous trails through all three is very high.

Only one public access boat ramp is available for boaters and it is a "fee" ramp. Boaters must pay $3.00 each time they launch their boats.

The location and character of Lake Beshear are conducive to the further development of tourism related activities. Potential attractions such as lake tours, canoe trails, and hiking trails along the publicly-owned shoreline would attract many additional visitors each year.

The quality of fishing available at Lake Beshear provides the opportunity to attract those interested in fishing competitive tournaments, as well as the recreational fishermen.

Since Clifty Creek originates in the Pennyrile Forest, it is highly likely that a continuous canoe trail from Riverside Park to Pennyrile Forest State Park could be economically developed.

Lack of planned, regulated development.

Recreational Boaters

Personal Watercraft Operators

Residents

Recreational Fishermen

Fee Ramp Receipts

Fuel

Groceries

Promotional Brochures

Website

Very Limited--Poor

Sunset/Night Cruises

Marina/Boat Rental

Sponsored Fishing Tournaments

Western Kentucky Coalfield

Dawson Springs is located on the edge of the Western Kentucky coalfield. This is a strategic location for the interpretation of the coal industry and coals significance to the region.

The western Kentucky coalfield contains millions of tons of unmined coal reserves. A more friendly environmental outlook or the development of clean coal technology supported by the federal government could create an economic boom yet again for multiple counties in western Kentucky.

The high sulfur nature of western Kentucky coal, the depths of some coal seams, and the domestic and international markets have combined to depress coal prices and extraction for the past 15-20 years. Absent significant changes in one or more of these aspects, the future of western Kentucky coal seems to be dismal.

The history of coal production and its impact on western Kentucky can be incorporated into an interpretive center near the NA site and could gain valuable funding support from the coal industry. In the past some coal industry activities resulted in negative impacts on the land and water. These practices were corrected through modern resource management practices as damaged areas were reclaimed. The Peabody Wildlife Management Area near Dawson Springs is a good example and can be incorporated into the exhibits and audio visual presentations.

Local Residents

Area Residents

As a Tourism Asset--Very Limited

None

Insignificant

Unknown at Present

Clear Creek River Basin

The Clear Creek River Basin provides drainage and watershed for most of Hopkins County. Once designated as a "dead waterway", the Clear Creek basin suffered from many years of acid mine runoff from strip mining operations in Hopkins county. Today, the watershed has largely recovered and serves as a model "wetlands" example.

Under Study

Under Study

Local Fishermen

Local Hunters

Area Birdwatchers

Area Environmentalists

None

None

N/A

Near-by Clear Creek located between Dawson Springs and Providence, KY provides excellent opportunities to observe waterfowl and wading birds. Utilization of this area could be greatly enhanced by providing a roadside parking area and boat launching ramp.

Native American Archaeological Sites

Many of the cultural assets present today predate the establishment of Dawson Springs. A unique topography appealed to Native Americans (NA) long ago, and will continue to interest a very broad range of groups and individuals well into the future. NA dwelling and burial sites, unique to our region, are presently well preserved. The location has special scenic qualities and is relatively untouched by modern civilization. To visit is to take a step back in time.

Native Americans once used the present day Dawson Springs site as a place for trading. The Tradewater River served as a major travel route to the Ohio River from Dawson Springs. The river meanders along much of the city’s borders retaining its majestic scenery and historic points of interest.

Tourism opportunities are augmented by the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s ownership of significant public lands nearly surrounding Dawson Springs. A 270-acre Native American site has great potential to serve as a very significant tourism and educational attraction, especially in combination with a state of the art natural and cultural resources interpretive center. A 50-acre plot adjacent to the NA site is required for access to the NA site. This location would be an outstanding site for the interpretive center and parking area. This site was recently purchased by a timber company as part of a 250-acre tract. The 270-acre NA site and the 250-acre adjacent tract are both available for purchase.

The most significant NA site is presently under private ownership. Timber harvest and looting could threaten the uniqueness of this site.

A weakness, in addition to the current lack of ownership of the NA and interpretive center sites, is the narrowness of the paved road leading into the area. This road would best be widened to better accommodate large RVs and buses. Further, the proposed center site currently does not have immediate access to a county water system. Local residents near the site have stated that a water line is being discussed for this area and may be coming soon. The proposed NA/Interpretive Center site is only about one mile from Dawson Springs.

Educational organizations could greatly benefit by seeing a NA site and learning about NA culture. The natural resource story, past, present, and future, can be integrated into the center’s theme.

With good promotion, this unique NA site and facility could generate revenue to support facility staff and maintenance while increasing business in the region. The facility would require a trail to NA sites with guided tours which is outlined currently on a topographic map. The center would include outdoor live native wildlife exhibits, global wildlife tracking systems, internet live cams featuring regional nesting birds, hands on exhibits and a wide variety of interactive programs. Efforts should be made immediately to obtain partnerships and funding to purchase this unique site and to fund construction of unique facilities.

Both properties are mostly mature forests that may be cut soon if the properties are not purchased. For the NA/interpretive center project to be viable, a minimum purchase of the 270-acre NA site and the adjacent 50 acre tract would be required. It would be desirable to purchase the entire 250-acre tract to enhance interpretive center operations, programs and outdoor wildlife exhibits. Purchasing the 50 acres alone results in a higher price per acre.

Interpretive Center. Market segments for NA and natural history would include many general public and group audiences. NA organizations would be interested and supportive. Others interested would include: Natural history organizations such as the Audubon Society, Sierra Club, National Wildlife Federation, Kentucky Ornithological Society, Kentucky Bluebird Society, , etc. Hunting skills workshops and programs could be offered which would interest major hunting organizations including federal and state agencies and membership organizations such as the National Wild Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited, etc. Educational institutions including state government, schools, universities, National Science for Youth Foundation, etc. would be interested and could contribute to funding.

None

None

N/A

Additional private property near the NA site might be purchased in the future to expand operations. For example, the Penny Homeplace, home of the first white family to settle in the Dawson Springs area, is near the NA site and could be restored for cultural resource interpretation.

Additional high priority, natural habitats might be purchased in cooperation with state and federal agencies for environmental education and wildlife management and conservation. The NA site is near the Jones-Kenny Wildlife Management Area (JKWMA). The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) recently purchased additional property enlarging the JKWMA. This purchase included a unique historic land feature. If additional private property becomes a part of the new interpretive complex or state wildlife management areas, the NA site might be connected to JKWMA making additional hiking trail connections possible to additional historic features. A hiking trail might eventually connect the interpretive center near DS to Princeton, KY and beyond. The trail system would then connect Pennyrile State Resort Park to at least Princeton, KY.

A NA "Pow Wow" might be held at an appropriate location in DS. A separate or integrated "Trade Day" event might also be held based on the theme of the historic NA trading area. A reasonable attendance fee can be charged with proceeds going toward expenses and related projects.

A camping area can be offered featuring authentic NA dwellings. A camping fee can be charged to cover costs and to help fund additional plan items.

Hotel and Boarding House Sites and Structures

In the past fifty major hotels and boarding houses were located at DS at the peak of the health spa/tourism era. These facilities were needed to provide for 50,000 visitors arriving by train each season. While only one of the original boarding houses, the Darby House, stands today, many of the original mineral water well sites remain, some of which still have the original well pumps intact. The most famous of the hotels, the New Century, is still considered the "Grand Hotel" of its day.

The rich history and legacy left from the "spa" days

Buildings and resources have been destroyed or razed

Possible Reconstruction of one or more landmarks

Potential for Darby House and well sites to be destroyed

Local Residents

Area Residents

Limited Regional Visitors

Fuel Sales

Food Sales

Promotional Brochures

Website

Speaking Engagements

Development Seminars

Riverside Park

During its heyday, several professional baseball teams visited Dawson Springs for spring training, contributing to its unique history. Visiting teams included the Pittsburg Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, Boston Red Sox, and others. One of the original inductees into the Major League Hall of Fame, Honus (Flying Dutchman) Wagner, spent the last three spring training seasons of his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates plying his trade at Riverside Park. Today, the re-created stadium stands as a monument to that period in history, providing the visitor with a modern-day look at early 1900's history.

The Dawson Springs community has reconstructed the original baseball stadium where these greats played and now offers a functional but unique new baseball facility and playing field on that site. The new facility and program incorporates the city's rich baseball history and tradition with modern-day high school and semi-pro programs, serving as an excellent example of the integration of past and present. Current plans call for expanding the multipurpose facility and program. The baseball history of the community is enhanced by the existence of "coal camp baseball", teams and leagues comprised of both paid and amateur baseball players often hired by coal companies as employees for the sole purpose of improving the company team.

The joint operations of Riverside Park and the Tradewater Pirate summer collegiate baseball team have created the second largest tourism resource in Dawson Springs, second only to Pennyrile Forest State Park. In addition, the park is an attraction for baseball history buffs from almost every area in the United States, due to its unique architecture, history, and atmosphere.

The facility provides an outstanding location for groups to hold picnics, concerts, and various fairs and/or festivals.

Baseball fans attending games at Riverside Park frequently spend one or more nights in the community, enhancing the bottom line for local businesses.

Riverside Park is maintained by the efforts of many volunteers and needs additional resources to have its potential realized. Financial obstacles are an ever-present concern to the city and park management. Currently, the lack of adequate resources limits the enormous potential created by this facility.

The greatest short-term opportunity for Riverside Park lies in the current proposal by Tradewater Pirate Baseball and the Riverside Park Recreational Commission in establishing Tradewater Canoe Livery and Campground at the Riverside Park location. The existing infrastructure, highway access, and the presence of the river and milldam make it a logical choice for development.

The most significant threat to the continuing success of Riverside Park are (1)the possibility that local government could end the lease agreements currently in place with Tradewater Pirate Baseball, and (2)that either the RPRC or local government would limit the expansion of the facilities as recommended by TPB. The success of this venture, like most others, is dependent upon the utilization of a number of attractions, not just a single venue.

Local Residents

Area Residents

High School Baseball Fans

Summer Collegiate Baseball Fans

Curiosity Seekers

Former Residents Returning to Community

Fans, family, and supporters of Pirate Baseball opponents

Corporate and Public Sector Sponsors

Employment Income—Tradewater Pirate Baseball currently uses independent contractors to provide some services such as food services manager, head coach, assistant coaches, and umpires. For 2005, income to these contractors totaled $15,560.

Purchase of Goods/Services from Local Firms—TPB purchases substantial quantities of goods and services from within the local economy. In 2005 alone, expenditures exceeding $11,100 were distributed among the community’s hardware stores, grocery stores, and gas stations. In addition, visitors to the park, on average, spent $18.67/per visit for food, gasoline, lodging, and other items.

Food Services Sales—The food services division of TPB realized gross sales of over $9,000, and a net profit of over $2,000 as a result of the 2005 TPB season.

Ticket Sales

Gate and season ticket sales for 2005 exceeded $6,600, excluding the donations and per/vehicle income generated from the July 4^th fireworks event.

Advertising Sales

The sale of advertising space, printed programs, signs, and banners constitute the ad sales revenues realized by TPB. For 2005, these amounts totaled just over $7,700.

Merchandise Sales

Merchandise sales are not accounted for as a separate category of income for 2005. This income was considered to be incidental miscellaneous income and therefore cannot be quantified precisely.

Local Restaurant Food Sales

Fuel—When the Tradewater Pirate team embarks on a road trip, an average of five automobiles are provided gasoline vouchers for $25.00. This year, the team had 23 such trips, with expenditures at local gas stations of over $2,800.

Additionally, TPB management and maintenance personnel documented monthly average gasoline purchases exceeding $600 for the months of May-July.

Lodging—During this season (2005) Tradewater Pirate Baseball purchased or arranged lodging at Pennyrile Forest State Park, the Stratton Inn, Pennyrile Best Western, and Hopkinsville Holiday Inn at a value of $3,473.00

Promotional Brochures—TPB has developed three separate marketing brochures focused on the team, the facilities, and the Dawson Springs community. These brochures are distributed to area university coaches, players, fans, and media annually. In 2005, the brochures were incorporated into direct mail efforts to attract corporate participation as well.

Formal Marketing Organization—Since 2004, TPB has utilized a part-time marketing and sales representative to generate sponsor and advertising revenues.

Over 43,000 visitors since 1999 (excluding July 4^th special events)

2005- Over 15,000 (to the park and river facilities)

Training Facility—Tradewater Pirate Baseball is uniquely positioned to establish and operate a baseball/softball skills training facility. The contacts made during its seven year history provide access to the most knowledgeable coaches and collegiate players in the tri-state area. The facilities can efficiently be utilized (with some additions and expansions) to provide the best available training for area athletes.

Additional Playing Fields

The hosting and management of youth, summer collegiate, and semi-pro tournaments is prime source of substantial revenues. The addition of two additional playing fields at Riverside Park could generate over $40,000 additional revenue to Riverside Park annually, in tournament fees alone.

Vintage Park Train—In its original long-term strategic plan, a narrow guage railroad, traveling from the US 62 parking lot, across the Tradewater River, around the stadium, and returning to the parking lot would provide transportation to and from the stadium, a source of recreational fee income, and an additional turn-of-the century flair to the already established assets at Riverside Park.

White City Tours—At the turn-of-the-century, tour boats and rental boats plied the Tradewater River from the Milldam at Riverside Park upstream to KY 109 and beyond. A very poplular attraction, the White City was used daily for sightseeing excursions by the tourists spending their time in the community. A reconstructed "White City" tourboat could provide regular scenic tours, cultural education tours, and could be utilized for late\afternoon dinner tours. A novelty such as this simply does not exist anywhere in the region currently.

Baseball Museum—The construction and operation of a local baseball museum would support the tradition and history the community is attempting to revive. Volumes of local photos featuring the rich baseball history have been collected and should be shared with the public for both cultural and educational reasons.

The Old Mill Dam

The historic Mill Dam is still present at the Tradewater River adjacent to Riverside Park. The former water mill building is gone but could be reconstructed as a functional mill including a unique restaurant to serve quality specialty meals. The restaurant alone could become a regional attraction. A very high quality pedestrian bridge connects the milldam area to the ballpark just across the river. The new bridge is on the historic bridge foundation of Dawson Springs' first bridge across the river. The original bridge was burned during Civil War action.

The milldam is one of only three known to exist for so long on Kentucky rivers. The site creates a wonderful atmosphere for visitors to Riverside Park, and insures that river levels above the dam remain adequate for boat travel even through August and September, when some lower sections of the Tradewater become un-navigable.

The milldam site lends itself to re-construction of the old mill as a tourism asset. Feasibility studies are already underway to determine the extent to which it can be developed.

The mill for which the dam was originally built, has long since disappeared. Only memories and a few photos remain.

Provided with thoughtful planning and needed capital resources, the milldam site could be one of the most unique and interesting river sites in all of Kentucky. The reconstruction of that building as a restaurant/museum/gift shop would provide a much-needed boost in tourism numbers.

While some efforts are being made to stabilize and improve the milldam area, the natural course of water flow downstream has been impeded by the siltation of the area immediately downstream of the milldam. This, in turn, has resulted in the growth of trees that traps floating debris during times of flooding. The entrapment of debris then alters the course of river currents away toward the banks, resulting in bank erosion on the riverbank adjacent to the park. If this situation is not corrected, the park will eventually be damaged beyond repair.

Local Residents—Since Riverside Park was reconstructed and the milldam area were cleaned, the milldam site is heavily utilized by local and area individuals as a favorite fishing "hole". The addition of the boat ramp in 2000 created a totally new user opportunity since boats could once again be placed on the river from that location.

Area Residents—The area of the milldam is being used frequently by area visitors and residents for photography reasons. From wedding and prom parties, to tourism photography, the milldam is generating substantial visitation.

None

Promotional Brochure—The community’s tourism brochures, TPB brochures and marketing publications, and Tradewater Canoe Livery promotions now incorporate articles and photos regarding the milldam area.

Website

The effectiveness of current marketing has not been quantified.

Mill Restaurant

Functional Grain Mill Operation

Functional Cider Mill Operation

Dawson Springs Museum/Art Center

Local Residents

Area Residents

Former Residents Visiting Community

Limited to Occasional Purchases of Visitors

Promotional Brochure

Website

Baseball Museum

Baseball Exhibits

Pennyrile State Resort Park, seven miles south of DS, provides quality lodging, meals, meeting facilities and much more. The park and its activities attract over 100,000 visitors annually. Eight other state parks are located within a two-hour drive of Dawson Springs, and horse racing and casino gambling are available within a 1 1/2-hour drive.

A recently revived downtown business district is now attractive and primed to accept new investment in retail and service businesses, especially those with natural ties to tourism development. A number of vacant buildings are currently being renovated and refurbished for occupancy.

Pennyrile Forest State Park, is without question, the tourism anchor for Dawson Springs. The park has a number of assets that attract visitors currently. One of the best kept secrets in western Kentucky, the park provides an eighteen hole golf course, campground with full amenities, a rustic lodge, tennis courts, recently renovated cabins, and a structured recreational program throughout much of the year.

The local community has been unable to generate the support structure needed to help the park realize its full potential. Additional tourism assets need to be developed to enhance and compliment the park’s offerings.

Local Market

Regional Market

National Market

Data Unavailable

Active marketing and promotion effort

Occupancy rate near 100% from May to November reveals outstanding success

Re-Involvement of Division of Forestry in Establishing a Tree Nursery—The nursery that once

Reconstruction of the Pennyrile Ampitheater--At the turn of the 19^th century many theaters provided a variety of entertainment for DS guests. A community theater could be restored for modern use with plays and live musical acts performing routinely and during special community events. New community special events could be initiated. A live radio show could be broadcast from the theater reaching at least all of Western KY. A recording studio could be included for recording regional talent at the interpretive center. Recordings could be sold at DS gift shops to help produce revenue for the tourism/educational projects.

The Dawson Springs community is favorably located with regard to major east-west and north-south interstate highways and US highways. The potential for further development of the I-69 project bodes well for the community.

Access to four lane highway transportation networks is readily available to the Dawson Springs area. The east west Western Kentucky Parkway lies adjacent to the city’s northern corporate limits, only one mile from the West Hopkins Industrial Park and less than two miles from the heart of downtown Dawson Springs.

The Western Kentucky Parkway provides direct access to I-24 only 24 miles from Dawson Springs and access to the north-south Pennyrile Parkway, only 14 miles from Dawson Springs, assuring that major commercial centers are reachable via superior multi-lane highways.

One of the potential routes for the proposed I-69 interstate highway lies along the Western Kentucky Parkway from the Pennyrile Parkway to U.S. 641 near Princeton, Ky. The decision to utilize this route would cause a dramatic increase in the numbers of people traveling through the area.

The Dawson Springs community is fortunate to have rail transportation capabilities available within its corporate limits. Rail service is provided by the Paducah & Louisville Railway and consists of a direct main line rail extending from Paducah to Louisville providing efficient and economical connections with other major rail service providers.

Major marine transportation facilities are located only a short distance from Dawson Springs along the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers, just 30 miles away.

Some area highways need to be upgraded and resurfaced. State and federal two lane highways passing through the community need to be widened and resurfaced.

Currently, no commercial airline service is available to the immediate area. The nearest available direct route airline capability is through Dress Regional Airport in Evansville, Indiana, about 78 miles away. International and nationwide direct airline routes are available from the Nashville International Airport, about 89-mi. to the south.

The WKP Dawson Springs exit could be landscaped to become the most attractive exit on the WKP. Abundant floral displays should be managed and obvious signage installed promoting Dawson Springs visitor opportunities. A radio message can be provided to alert travelers of attractions. Obvious signage should continue from WKP to a new DS Welcome Center presently under development. A radio message station could also be established at the Welcome Station. Quality uniform signage should easily lead guests to all major attractions.

Pennyrile Forest

Riverside Park

Tradewater Canoe Trail

Pennyrile Trail System

Lake Beshear

Historic Downtown

WMA’s

Many of the community’s existing tourism assets are underutilized due to a lack of overnight lodging capabilities. One important yet relatively inexpensive way to address the problem is to provide campsites, shelters, and cabins at Riverside Park and other potential locations for those who are using the Pennyrile Trail System, the Tradewater River, Riverside Park, and the nearby WMA’s.

The development of such facilities at Riverside Park would not only enhance the opportunities for better utilization of Riverside Park, but would be a natural and practical way of improving the usage of those other assets at minimal cost and investment.

In addition to increasing usage, economies of operation could be realized by sharing manpower responsibilities such as maintenance and security, while centralizing clerical/office/managerial spaces.

A second logical step in bringing cohesion to the overall plan is the concept of providing Tradewater Pirate Baseball the ability to expand into training and conditioning of area athletes. TPB could reach new clients from its existing fan base and following to recruit, train, and condition younger athletes who then could become a talent pool or feeder program for the summer collegiate program. In addition, TPB is uniquely qualified to sponsor and manage summer youth baseball activities such as teams, leagues, and tournaments. Providing the organization with these capabilities could exponentially increase revenues to the organization and Riverside Park Recreational Commission.

The relocation of Tradewater Station Canoe Livery to Riverside Park will also provide increased utilization and economies of efficiency. The existing livery site is undeveloped and the cost to develop bath/shower facilities, offices, and infrastructure is prohibitively expensive when compared to the possibility of locating it at Riverside Park where all of the necessary infrastructure is in place (water/sewer/electricity/phone service).

Riverside Park is a short hike from the proposed Fort Ridge development. A logical and cost efficient development of the Fort Ridge project would produce yet another hiking/backpacking/cultural heritage asset for which Riverside Park campground could serve as a base.

It has been proposed by the Dawson Springs Museum and Art Center recently that annual exhibits reflecting the Fort Ridge native American site and the community’s historical ties to the Pittsburg Pirates and baseball be designed and developed. The proposed baseball exhibits would be jointly sponsored by Tradewater Pirate Baseball and the museum, benefiting both organizations.

Yet another way of integrating assets and efforts is the planned organization and development of a local hunting/fishing guide service. Tradewater Outdoors, operating in conjunction with the campground at Riverside Park, would provide cabin and campsite rentals to its clients during their hunting trips. It is also possible that this operation could provide guided trips on the river, to Fort Ridge, and along the Pennyrile Trail, adding a measure of comfort and security to those users who may be uncomfortable going alone.

Tradewater River Basin

Develop river access points at strategic locations along the entire upper and middle Tradewater River to accommodate users.

Promote the basin, river, and surrounding areas through a formal, aggressive marketing campaign.

Pennyrile Forest

Encourage the KY Division of Forestry to rebuild the Pennyrile Nursery as an educational, hands-on facility for nature education.

Convince the Division of Forestry to allow the construction and operation of primitive camp facilities along the Pennyrile Trail.

Encourage the Division of Forestry to design and develop horseback riding trails within the Pennyrile Forest

Tradewater Wildlife Management Area

Develop interpretive nature trails, scenic trails, and hiking trails within the WMA.

Jones/Keeney Wildlife Management Area

Develop interpretive nature trails, scenic trails, and hiking trails within the WMA.

Lake Beshear

Encourage the adoption of land use regulations and planning

Western Kentucky Coalfield

Under Study

Clear Creek River Basin

Under study

Native American Archaeological Sites

Acquire the real estate containing the Fort Ridge native american site.

Develop a trail connecting the site to Riverside Park

Examine potential funding sources that could assist in preserving the site and in promoting it as a cultural heritage asset

Hotel and Boarding House Sites and Structures

Complete the planned restoration of Darby House

Regain control of the historic mineral water wells and develop them as tourism assets.

Riverside Park

Expand the facility to include two additional playing fields.

Relocate Tradewater Station Canoe Livery to Riverside Park

Develop proposed Riverside Campground within Riverside Park

The Old Mill Dam

Rebuild the mill once located at the mill dam

Renovate and improve the area immediately adjacent to the mill dam

Examine the feasibility of creating a restaurant/gift shop at the original mill site.

Dawson Springs Museum/Art Center

Develop new exhibits relating to the native American presence

Develop new exhibits related to the community’s baseball legacy.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

Work to achieve a marketing partnership with the park

Identify and promote activities and projects that would mutually benefit the community and the park

Tradewater Canoe Livery

Relocate facility to Riverside Park and develop infrastructure to accommodate users.

Provide management assistance and expertise to assure long-term success

Tradewater Pirate Baseball, Inc.