Conserving Fish & Wildlife

Tennessee is the most biologically diverse inland state in the nation. Ensuring the conservation of the hundreds of fish and wildlife species in Tennessee is at the very heart of Tennessee Wildlife Federation’s mission. We have successfully recovered several species that were on the brink, and today they drive billions in economic activity and are highly valued by many. But our work is not done. Tennessee contains more than 1,400 species of fish and wildlife whose futures are in question, and it is up to us to ensure they will be here for generations to come.
A lone stag in a forest clearing

Chronic Wasting Disease in Tennessee

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a major threat to Tennessee’s deer and elk populations, as well as the conservation funding they generate. Tennessee hunters are at the forefront of managing the spread of CWD and protecting these beloved resources.

Invasive Carp Threaten Native Fish

Invasive carp have taken over the Mississippi River system—and have moved aggressively into the Tennessee and Cumberland River systems. These non-native fish are a serious threat to the aquatic species, recreation, and economy in Tennessee, and surrounding states.

A close-up look at invasive carp
A wet raccoon finds a red plastic cup in the wilderness

Stop Litter, Preserve the Land We Love

Tennessee has a pollution problem. Litter affects wildlife, agriculture, recreation, and much more—all of which lead to negative impacts on Tennessee’s economy, health, and wild places.

Speak out

Let your lawmakers know conservation is important to you.

Help lead Tennessee's wildlife and habitat conservation movement by making your voice heard.

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Donate to support wild Tennessee and our great outdoors.

Your generosity helps manage wildlife populations and restore habitats for a more vibrant Tennessee.

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More Fish & Wildlife Concerns

Viewed from the front, an eastern river cooter turtle tucked inside its shell

Unsafe Roadways for Wildlife

Roads connect us, but they are often impossible and deadly barriers to wildlife. Creating tunnels, bridges, and other wildlife-friendly infrastructure to increase habitat connectivity and reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions is essential to improve the safety of wildlife and people traveling through these areas.

Growing Need for Long-Term Funding

The hard-earned conservation successes from the past century are at risk. In the early 1900s, conservationists ignited a movement to find management and funding solutions for our land, wildlife, forests, and water. The problems of today are more complex but share the same foundations. This means it is time to come together again to address the growing need for long-term conservation funding.

Two volunteers in camo help clear fallen limbs

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2025 General Assembly Preview

2025 General Assembly Preview

Conservation will be a big topic again in the 2025 session of the Tennessee General Assembly. Join our Action Alert email list now to be notified when your voice is needed to speak up for conservation.

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Response to Recent Report about CWD

Response to Recent Report about CWD

Making policy decisions around good science and data is how conservationists throughout the 20th century brought back many of our wildlife species—and is a big reason we can all enjoy the outdoors today.

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Make Your gift for tennessee's wildlife and great outdoors.

Tennessee's wildlife, water, and wild places are under more pressure than any time in decades. Conservationists like you make all the difference.