Winter Lecture Series: "Love Our Lake - The SMLA Story"

Our Winter Lecture Series is back for its twenty-first year! Our SMLSP Friends Group has worked hard to bring you a great line-up of presenters for this year’s series. We kick off 2026 with an informative program on the Smith Mountain Lake Association (SMLA) presented by Mary Colligan. SMLA, the largest and oldest volunteer organization on the lake, has served as a steward of Smith Mountain Lake since 1969 with a mission to protect the water quality and promote safe recreation.

Ms. Colligan has a master's degree in marine affairs and worked for over twenty years as a wildlife biologist for the National Marine Fisheries Service in Massachusetts, and as the Assistant Regional Director for Ecological Services with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Alaska. In 2021, Mary retired from federal government service and moved to Smith Mountain Lake to be closer to family and continue contract work as a wildlife biologist. She currently volunteers with the Smith Mountain Lake Association in an effort to help safeguard the integrity of the Smith Mountain Lake ecosystem.

The Winter Lecture Series is presented by the Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Proceeds go to help fund educational programs and projects in the park. Dates for the 2026 Winter Lecture series include January 11, February 8, March 8, and April 12. 

Ticket Prices: Single ticket: $10, Season ticket: $30
Friends of SMLSP member: Single ticket: $8, Season ticket: $24

Prices include parking. All tickets paid at the door. For more information call: (540) 297-6066.

Find a Job at
Virginia State Parks

Order your Virginia State Parks
license plate

eNewsletter Sign-up