Tennessee's Duck River is endangered. What conservationists say is needed to protect it
A Middle Tennessee treasure, the Duck River touches seven counties and is one of the most biodiverse rivers in the world.
But as the region sees explosive growth, the river is also one of the nation’s most endangered.
Residents and environmental groups are now fighting against a plan by local water utilities to drain 19 millions gallons from the river, for a total of 73 millions of gallons pumped daily.
The Southern Environmental Law Center, on behalf of the Tennessee Wildlife Federation, this week filed an appeal against state-issued water permits that the group says will cause long-term damage to the river’s health.
What’s the concern over Duck River?
Eight utility companies are petitioning to drastically increase the amount of water they take from the river. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) in March issued permits to three of the eight utilities approving their requests for more water, according to the law center.
The law center argues that the newly-approved permits are insufficient and do not include enforceable flow restrictions that regulate how much water is pumped during low flow or drought periods. It says TDEC should have better protections.
“Relying upon surface water from smaller rivers in Middle Tennessee is a failed long-term strategy for growth, our great outdoors, and the Tennesseans who rely upon the Duck,” Mike Butler, CEO of the Tennessee Wildlife Federation, said in a statement. “We can improve these permits, and start the discussion for a regional solution that meets water needs and protects the Duck. What we do now, with these permits, will decide the fate of the Duck River for generations.”
The center says the permits also allow utilities to leak up to 25% of the water daily, for a possible waste of more than 18 gallons if all permits are approved.
What does TDEC say?
TDEC in a statement said it has long recognized the river’s value and has been taking proactive measures to ensure its protection while balancing the needs of a growing region. The agency since 2020 said it has a comprehensive permitting process that includes public meeting and input from stakeholders.
“We will continue to meet with stakeholders, be responsive to the public’s interest in the Duck River, and utilize the checks and balances within our regulatory authority to ensure this precious resource remains protected and utilized appropriately,” the agency said.
The agency in the coming months could issue final water withdrawal permits to the remaining utilities.
Why is Duck River important to Tennessee?
The river, which flows 269 miles across Tennessee, has been recognized as the most biodiverse freshwater river in North America and is home to more than 200 species of snails, mussels and fish. Many are federally endangered or threatened. It also provides drinking water for roughly 250,000 people.
This year, the river was named as the country’s third most endangered river by American Rivers, due to growing demand and overconsumption.
Among the efforts to protect it, the Tennessee General Assembly last year passed legislation that expands protections for 30 miles of the river in Maury County.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee's Duck River is endangered. What's needed to protect it
