2005 TENNESSEE CONSERVATION REPORT
Chris Cole, Director of Conservation Programs
The following is a brief summary of activities in Tennessee by Conservation field staff from July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2005. Should you have questions or comments concerning the information provided or would like to learn more about a particular activity please call me at the Southern Regional Office, (601) 956-1936.
Tennessee Partners Project – The Tennessee Partners Project continued making tremendous progress. Over the course of the reporting period, the TPP biologist worked with 53 private landowners, resulting in the enrollment of 1,820 acres of migrating and wintering habitat. Staff also generated a significant backlog of projects totaling 600 acres. The overwhelming growth of the program has required the partners to begin discussions on expanding personnel, and on exploring new sources for additional funding. TPP staff continued making phone calls and / or site visits to cooperators reminding them of their commitment.
TPP staff supported the state’s grass-roots fundraising effort by attending several banquets to discuss conservation accomplishments in Tennessee and to discuss programs with volunteers and interested landowners.
Tennessee State Convention – The Tennessee State Convention was held June 24 – 26, 2005 at the Cool Springs Marriott in Nashville. Staff made several presentations during the Saturday morning business session, covering a variety of conservation topics applicable to public and private wetlands in Tennessee. One of the more notable highlights from the Saturday evening banquet was Senators Mark Norris’ announcement of the signing of legislation by Governor Bredesen which provides greater flexibility to staff in accessing funds generated through the sell of DU license plates in Tennessee – Kudos to Senator Norris. Another significant part on the evening’s program was the announcemnt of Joe Hopper’s forthcoming retirement and recognition of his 30+ years of service to TWRA in various capacities, more recently as the state’s wetlands and waterfowl biologist. Chairman McCrory presented Joe with a nice black duck craving as a token of appreciation for his many years of dedication and commitment to Tennessee’s wetlands and waterfowl resources. Thanks Joe for everthing!!
Earnest Rice Wildlife Management Area – One of two NAWCA grants in which DU is currently involved in Tennessee includes an acquisition of 300 acres adjoining the Earnest Rice WMA and subsequent restoration. The acqusition has been completed; the restoration phase is scheduled to begin this winter. As a reminder, NAWCA grants are an excellent use of DU dollars, and we are always excited over partnering opportunities associated with this highly important funding source.
Smith Bend-Yuchi Wildlife Management Area – It is our understanding that development has begun on the mosit-soil units at Smith Bend-Yuchi WMA. DU has committed $25,000 toward this enhancement project. A completion date was unknown at the time of this report.
Tennessee Habitat Projects
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 Tyson Foods, Inc. Donates $65,000 to Wetlands Restoration Project
Open Letter to Tennessee Sportsmen
Tennessee Partners Project: Awarded for Excellence
Tennessee Partners Project: 2005 Annual Report
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