Dear Sirs:
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Duck River Watershed Society (DRWS), I am writing to you to express our strong opposition to the proposed construction of a dam on the Duck River.
As everyone is well aware, the counties within the Duck River Watershed have experienced explosive growth over the past two decades. With growth comes the inevitable demand for new infrastructure—especially the need for a reliable water supply for households, agriculture, and industry. But let’s be clear: our beloved Duck River simply does not have the capacity to provide a consistent, sustainable supply of water to meet these needs—even if one were to impound the river to create a seasonal lake.
We must remember 2007, when Middle Tennessee endured a severe and protracted drought. Normandy Lake, the reservoir supplying water to municipalities in the Upper Duck River, was projected to run completely dry within just a month. Only in early 2008 did the rains return—some might say by divine intervention—recharging the lake and averting disaster. That crisis forced government agencies to consider raising the lake level, but after extensive study, the conclusion was undeniable: the idea was simply untenable.
Everyone living within the watershed must recognize what an ecological treasure we have right here in our backyard. The Duck River is not just a Tennessee jewel—it is the most biologically diverse river in North America and, for its size, the most biodiverse river on the planet. Think about this: in this nearly 300-mile-long river, there are more species of fish than in all the rivers of Europe combined. Let that sink in!
Governor Lee wisely created the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership to develop a comprehensive strategy for the future of the river. Their ideas should be released within the coming months, and when they are, every citizen in the watershed must engage—read the draft, critique it, and make your voice heard.
This is our river. This is our future. Yet, in truth, this river belongs to the world as well. Let us celebrate its uniqueness, honor its irreplaceable value, and work together to forge a sustainable path forward.
Best regards,
Kevin Vann, RN
Founder/CEO
Duck River Watershed Society (DRWS)
We are here to protect the most biologically diverse river in North America
Biodiversity in Our Backyard
The Duck River Watershed flows for nearly 300 miles throughout Middle Tennessee before emptying into the Kentucky Lake on the Tennessee River. The river’s landscape ranges from small cities and towns to sparsely populated rural areas.
The watershed is one of the most biodiverse waterways in North America and features several endemic species found nowhere else on the planet.
Did you know …
The Duck River features several endemic species found nowhere else on the planet
The watershed provides over 300,000 people with their drinking water.
The Duck River is home to 35 species listed as federally endangered or threatened.
DRWS Member Ships
Some of the many perks of being a DRWS Member
