Groundhog Day preparations underway at Dauset Trails

As temperatures begin to warm up across Middle Georgia following cold temperatures and some unexpected snowfall, many are eager for the beloved tradition of Groundhog Day.

JACKSON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – As temperatures begin to warm up across Middle Georgia following cold temperatures and some unexpected snowfall, many are eager for the beloved tradition of Groundhog Day.

This Sunday, February 2, hundreds of visitors are expected to gather at Dauset Trails in Jackson to see if General Beauregard Lee predicts six more weeks of winter or an early spring.

Preparations are underway at Dauset Trails, where caretakers are ensuring everything is in order for his appearance. The home of General Lee is receiving some finishing touches to welcome guests.

“Getting his house looking nice and his yard squared away and presentable, because over the year he does a lot of yard work on his own and he likes to remodel everything,” Gordon Respess, the educational supervisor at Dauset Trails, said. “So, we have to kind of tidy things up a bit for him.”

According to Madelyn Brown, the animal’s caretaker, they are working hard to create a stress-free and comfortable environment for Beauregard. She says he is getting his favorite snacks: peanuts and corn and a “very well-balanced diet for him to make sure that he is staying healthy and that he’s very energetic for the big day.”

Respess says there will be entertainment and refreshments available prior to General Lee’s much-anticipated appearance. While Respess is hopeful for a prediction of an early spring, he acknowledges that the final decision rests solely with General Beauregard Lee.

“I’m hoping that he will predict an early spring, because we’re a little tired of the cold weather, but as you know, Beau knows,” Respess said. “We will have to wait and see.”

The free event is open to the public. Gates open at 6 a.m. Sunday and the prediction will happen around 7:30.

Dauset Trails is located at 360 Mount Vernon Road.