Governor Bill Lee is committing a large amount of state funds to conserving a vital water resource that dried up in several stretches just last summer.
In his “State of the State” address Monday, the governor announced more than $100 million will be set aside to help preserve the Duck River, which is the most biologically-diverse freshwater river in North America.
One idea includes a water pipeline from another river to ease pressure on the Duck River.
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Duck River Watershed Society Awarded $20 Million for Landmark Conservation Project
The Duck River Watershed Society (DRWS) has secured $20 million from the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) for 2024. This funding will support vital habitat restoration efforts in the Upper and Lower Duck River watersheds in Tennessee.
DRWS, in partnership with Ecosystem Planning and Restoration (EPR), The Nature Conservancy, Tennessee Environmental Council, and the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, will focus on restoring aquatic habitats, reducing erosion, and preventing localized flooding. These efforts aim to empower local landowners, particularly underserved and minority farming communities, to engage in conservation at no cost.
Founder Kevin Vann emphasized the goal to restore up to 20 miles of the watershed, calling the grant “a transformative opportunity for the Duck River ecosystem.” Applications for landowners and farmers are set to open in Spring 2025. This five-year initiative marks a major step in supporting Tennessee’s most biodiverse river.
Duck River Watershed Society Awarded Prestigious Grant
The Duck River Watershed Society (DRWS) is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a 2025 Jump Start grant from the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. This generous grant will enable DRWS to further its mission of fostering sustainability, promoting health, and advancing education for the Duck River Watershed—recognized as the most biodiverse river in America.
The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, a nonprofit dedicated to creating a thriving and inclusive community for generations to come, transforms thoughtful generosity into meaningful impact. This Jump Start grant was funded by the John F. Lee, Jr & Sara Rodes Lee , Unrestricted Fund of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee is yet another testament to their commitment to supporting organizations making a difference.
The grant funding will strengthen the DRWS by supporting general operating expenses, expanding organizational capacity, and enhancing partnerships with other vital programs working to protect the Duck River and its ecosystems.
Kevin Vann, founder of the Duck River Watershed Society, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm, stating, “The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee’s Jump Start grant is most appreciated and impactful for us. It ensures that the Duck River Watershed Society can continue its essential work in preserving the health and vibrancy of the Duck River—keeping it a shining example of biodiversity and a treasure for generations to come.”
For more information about the Duck River Watershed Society and its initiatives, visit www.duckriverws.com.
Fall Canoe Trip is a Great Success
We accomplished some great things with the help of our great community. Keep watching for news about our 2025 trip!
