NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Explosive growth is impacting more than just our economy. It’s impacting our rivers too.
Have you ever been to the Duck River in Middle Tennessee? It spans seven counties and is 269 miles in length. It is known for its biodiversity as well as recreation.
According to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), the Duck River is home to 500 species of aquatic plants, 22 aquatic snail species, 56 mussel species, and 151 fish species.
The Duck River is home to many endangered fish and wildlife species. It is recognized as the most Biodiverse river in North America and is now recognized as one of the most endangered rivers in the U.S. for 2024.
The study comes from American Rivers. According to the American Rivers website, the most endangered rivers list is selected by the following criteria:
- The significance of the river to human and natural communities
- The magnitude of the threat to the river and associated communities, especially in light of a changing climate
- A major decision (that the public can help influence) in the coming year on the proposed action
According to American Rivers, the Duck River is the drinking water source for nearly 250,000 people. The water-drawing practices have been unsustainable putting strain on the river and threatening its biodiversity.
In response to comments, TDEC proposed to issue water withdrawal permits that could allow local utility companies to increase the amount of water they draw from the river each day by 16 million gallons.
As the demand for more water increases, the river could be drained during periods of drought. This would put wildlife and communities at risk of being left without habitat and/or drinking water.
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