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Commission approves naming at Herb Parsons State Fishing Area; Bill Dance Lake name adopted for lake
Summary
The commission approved naming the Herb Parsons State Fishing Area and referring to the lake as Bill Dance Lake at Herb Parsons Refuge after committee review; the family supported the request and the agency will add interpretive signage.
The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission approved a naming recommendation on Aug. 22, 2025, to designate the non-lake amenities of the site as "Herb Parsons Refuge" and to refer to the lake itself as "Bill Dance Lake at Herb Parsons Refuge."
General Counsel Tory Grimes told the commission the naming matter began in February 2025 and followed the agency's naming policy and due-diligence procedures. The committee recommended that non-lake features use the name Herb Parsons Refuge and that fishing-specific references use Bill Dance Lake at Herb Parsons Refuge. The family of Herb Parsons supported the request, Grimes said, and the agency will seek interpretive signage honoring both individuals.
Commissioners heard two public comments on naming during the public-comment portion of the meeting (one for, one against), and the committee reported two public comments on the docket. The commission moved, seconded and approved the committee recommendation by voice vote.
Chairman Chris Devaney thanked Commissioner Cox for leadership on the naming process and noted the committee also updated naming rules and procedures as part of the due-diligence work.
Votes at a glance: Naming of Herb Parsons State Fishing Area / Bill Dance Lake — approved by voice vote; tally not specified.
