It’s considered America’s Most Biodiverse River and recent cuts created by the Big Beautiful Bill have sunk a program intended to focus on stream restoration and protecting aquatic habitat on the Duck River.
The Duck River Watershed Society (DRWS) recently announced that the 2024 Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) project, valued at $20 million, has been rescinded through recent legislation passed by Congress and signed by the President.
The RCPP is a five-year program administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The DRWS project was one of only three in Tennessee – and one of 92 nationwide – to receive an award. The focus of the project was stream restoration within the Duck River Watershed, aimed at protecting and enhancing aquatic habitat in what is considered America’s Most Biodiverse River—the Duck River and its tributaries.
In a press release, project directors said they extended heartfelt thanks to their incredible partners: The Tennessee Nature Conservancy, the Tennessee Environmental Council, and the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. “These organizations have worked tirelessly to protect and preserve our state’s natural environment, and their support was instrumental in the selection of our project,” they said.
They also acknowledged Richard Hanson and the Ecosystems, Planning, and Restoration (EPR) group for their invaluable contributions. “Their expertise in ecosystem restoration is world-class, and they remain national leaders in environmental engineering,” they said.
Despite this setback, the Duck River Watershed Society remains laser-focused on their mission: educating the community about the uniqueness, biodiversity, and vital importance of the Duck River Watershed. The group pledges to continue to be champions not only for people, but for the 650+ aquatic species that call the Duck River home.
“We are committed to seeking new opportunities that support a healthy, sustainable watershed for generations to come.” •
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