Smokies plates raise $800K in 2015
Sales of license plates supporting the Friends of the Smokies were strong in 2015, with sales in North Carolina and Tennessee generating $805,000 this year. Since the program launched in 1999, specialty plates have raised more than $12.5 million to support America’s most-visited national park.
Because the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not allowed to charge an entrance fee, it relies on partner organizations like Friends of the Smokies to help meet its needs. Plate sales fund many projects for the park, including supporting seasonal environmental internship positions, giving children hands-on education through the Parks as Classrooms program, elk habitat management and trail work.
North Carolina plates are $30 and can be purchased regardless of plate expiration date.
