Press Release
(Click HERE for more photos)

Governor Phil Bredesen signed the historic Pearl Farm and Museum bill (SB3361/HB3255) on Monday in Nashville denoting the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Museum and Farm as the official location of freshwater pearl culturing in the State of Tennessee.

A complete portfolio about the pearl farm, museum and culturing process was distributed to the participants in the ceremonial signing and photograph.

Present at the signing of the bill was Ken Givens, Commissioner of Agriculture, John Tidwell (74th District Commissioner), Benton County 1st District Commissioner Russell King, Bob Keast (owner of the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Museum and Farm as well as Birdsong Resort Campground and Marina) and various others including staff members of Birdsong Resort.

Keast has strived for many years tirelessly promoting and trying to attract new industry and more jobs into Benton County. This historic bill will serve as a major asset in bringing more tourism to Benton County.

The impact and eventual result of the signing of this historic bill could be phenomenal in bringing both tourism and new industry to Benton County. Keast has always been a professional leader in tourism and industry and with the signing of this bill he has once again demonstrated his ability to involve Benton County in a better future.