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.
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.
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 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.
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Help lead Tennessee's wildlife and habitat conservation movement by making your voice heard.
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More Streams, Rivers, & Wetlands Concerns
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.
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.
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Repairing Nature Through Habitat Restoration
As of June 2023, the Federation has enhanced and protected more than 15,000 acres of land across the state and planted more than 500,000 trees.
2023 Conservation Achievement Award Winners
This year, the Federation celebrated 17 individuals and companies from across the state who are conserving our wildlife and wild places.
Conservation Groups File to Defend Longstanding Clean Water Protections
Clearer, more consistent clean water protections for streams, fisheries, and wetlands that provide habitat and protect communities from storms are at stake.