Restoring Streams & Rivers

Tennessee Wildlife Federation’s goal is to conserve Tennessee’s healthy and abundant waterways. Water is one of our state’s greatest natural resources. Tennessee contains more than 60,000 miles of streams and rivers which provide habitat for fish and wildlife, fresh water for agriculture and public consumption, and numerous recreation opportunities.

Why Streams & Rivers?

28%

of Tennessee’s streams and rivers that have been assessed are polluted or their health is impacted, meaning they do not support their classified uses. Less than half have been assessed.

40%

of Tennessee’s streams & rivers are not fit for human recreational use.

565

miles

of river have public advisories for contaminated fish (as of June 2022).

Streams and rivers are some of the most important natural resources in the state.

Tennessee’s more than 60,000 miles of streams and rivers create habitat for numerous species of fish, mussels, aquatic insects, and much more. They also irrigate cropland and provide drinking water for people and wildlife across the state.

Historically, it was common to channelize streams and rivers or modify the banks and path of the water for agricultural purposes. Today, Tennessee Wildlife Federation is working to restore the natural channels and flow of streams and rivers across the state, which will improve water quality, create healthier ecosystems, and provide numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation.