After more than 35 years of dedicated service, Shelley Johnson, a committed supporter and advocate of Southwest Louisiana, is stepping down from her role on the Creole Nature Trail Scenic Byway District Board of Commissioners. The resignation will take effect on Dec. 15, 2023. 

In her letter to the Board, Johnson expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to promote the natural beauty of Southwest Louisiana and advocate on behalf of the Department of Interior, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the National Scenic Byways program. Throughout her tenure, she committed to showcasing the value of the trail and building lasting relationships with community professionals and stakeholders. 

“I have greatly enjoyed sharing the natural wonders of Southwest Louisiana as well as advocating to our congressional delegation on behalf of the Department of Interior and U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the National Scenic Byways program,” Johnson said in her resignation letter. 

Johnson was pivotal in promoting the Creole Nature Trail, known as “Louisiana’s Outback,” which boasts 180 miles and encompasses four wildlife refuges. The trail holds the prestigious designation of being one of only 57 national scenic byways recognized as an All-American Road in the United States. 

“Shelley’s leadership and commitment to the Creole Nature Trail have been invaluable,” Kyle Edmiston, the president and CEO of Visit Lake Charles, said. “Her passion for promoting Southwest Louisiana has left a lasting impact, and we are grateful for her dedicated service.” 

Download pictures of Johnson and the Creole Nature Trail Scenic Byway District Board of Commissioners here

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About the Creole Nature Trail: 
The Creole Nature Trail is one of only 57 national scenic byways designated as an All-American Road in the USA. It encompasses more than 180 miles and four wildlife refuges and is known as “Louisiana’s Outback.” The gateway to the western side of the trail is Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point, 2740 Ruth St. in Sulphur, La. For more information on the Creole Nature Trail, go to www.creolenaturetrail.org

About Visit Lake Charles:     
Visit Lake Charles, the official destination marketing organization for Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana, is the only organization in Southwest Louisiana providing advocacy, promotion, and education for the tourism industry. For more information on Visit Lake Charles and things to see and do in Louisiana’s Playground, log on to www.visitlakecharles.org