EWING, Va — One of an area park’s most popular programs is returning to teach locals some potentially life-saving information. Wilderness Road State Park in Ewing, Va., will host Slitherin’ Snake Adventure on Saturday, May 16 at 1 p.m. and Sgt. Stephen Sutphin of the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries will explain to visitors how to identify poisonous snakes in Virginia, provide information on what to do in case of a snakebite, and let participants interact with a live Corn Snake.

“Last year, Mr. Sutphin was kind enough to offer this program in response to some concerns one of our nearby residents had about poisonous snakes in our area,” said Mike Brindle, Concessions Manager at Wilderness Road State Park.

Brindle said the program was a huge success.

“We were hoping for a good turnout, but were overwhelmed at the attendance we had,” he said. “More than 120 visitors participated in the program, far surpassing Mr. Sutphin’s expectations as well as the park’s. With so much interest in the program, we approached Mr. Sutphin about doing another program this season and he was very happy to oblige.”

Brindle added that, in many ways, the program was too successful.

“We were not expecting that big of a crowd, so some of our visitors were unable to fully enjoy the experience,” said Brindle. “This year, we are going to limit the participation to the first 50 people to register. If the program again draws a lot of attention, we may work out a second program that would begin at 3 p.m. the same day”

Sutphin’s goal with the project is to take people’s common fascination with snakes but educate the public more about the risk and rewards of the reptiles, as well as hopefully squash some myths about snakes.

Only three poisonous snakes are found in the Commonwealth of Virginia: the Copperhead, Rattlesnake (Timber and Canebrake), and the Cottonmouth. The Timber rattler is found in the Western portion of the state while the Canebrake is located in the marshy lowlands of the East. Once thought to be two different types of rattlesnakes, scientists now recognize the two as one species.

“I think everyone left here very pleased with the program,” said Brindle. “We received nothing but huge compliments from our visitors. Corny, the live Corn Snake, proved to be the hit of the show, but I think everyone had a good time and learned a lot. Snakes, like sharks, are far too often misunderstood. The large majority of snakebites that occur in Virginia are caused by carelessness and misinformation. That is why I encourage those interested to register early and prepare for a great show!”

A PowerPoint presentation, along with a question and answer session will also be included in the program. For more information, or to register, please call the park office at 276-445-3065 or e-mail them at WildernessRoad@dcr.virginia.gov.The program is free of charge, but normal parking fees will apply. Wilderness Road State Park is roughly 10 miles east of Middlesboro on Highway 58 in Ewing, Va.

Daily News Staff Writer Stephen Woodward can be contacted via e-mail at swoodward@middlesborodailynews.com