Defending Streams, Rivers, & Wetlands

Water is the most essential natural resource. Fish, wildlife, and Tennesseans themselves all depend on it for survival. But thousands of miles of Tennessee’s rivers and streams are not able to support the aquatic life, water supply needs, and public recreation they are intended to support. Tennessee Wildlife Federation works to ensure this critical natural resource is managed appropriately as our state continues to grow.

Conserving Tennessee’s Wetlands

Wetlands are vital to Tennessee’s wildlife, environment, and communities, providing critical habitats, improving water quality, and reducing flood risks. Right now, state-level action is more important than ever to safeguard these essential ecosystems.

Conserve Wetlands

Cypress trees on the edge of a flooded wetland habitat.

Protecting the Duck River

The Duck River is the longest river flowing entirely in Tennessee. It is one of the most biodiverse rivers in North America. And it is facing threats that will undoubtedly impact the future health of the river’s ecosystem.

Protect the Duck River

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.

Stop Invasive Carp

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More Streams, Rivers, & Wetlands Concerns

Reducing River Overcrowding

Water is a public resource utilized by anglers, boaters, canoers and kayakers, and other recreationists. With a significant increase of recreational use in recent years, overcrowding on Tennessee’s rivers has reached a critical level and solutions are needed so we can all enjoy this natural resource.

Share Our Rivers

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.

Prevent Litter

A wet raccoon finds a red plastic cup in the wilderness

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

Inadequate Water Resource Management

Regional growth is good for the economy, but if not done responsibly it will have detrimental impacts on the lands, water, and wildlife that draw many people to Tennessee. The health and abundance of Tennessee’s waterways needs time and resources to plan and monitor regularly.

Improve Water Planning

Keep Public Land in Public Hands

Approximately 10 percent—2.4 million acres—of Tennessee land is public land, yet public land generates $30 billion for Tennessee’s economy every year.

Protect Public Lands