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Governor Bredesen Lauds Environmental Stewards

The Nature Conservancy – Hatchie River Project wins 2004 Award

Nashville, TN—28 October 2004—Governor Phil Bredesen joined Environment and Conservation Commissioner Betsy Child today in presenting The Nature Conservancy and its partners on the Hatchie River Project with the Scientific Aquatic Resource Preservation Award. The Nature Conservancy and partners were recognized in a ceremony at the State Capitol where Child presented the 2004 Environment and Conservation Stewardship Awards to individuals, community organizations, businesses and government agencies whose work has protected and improved Tennessee’s natural resources.

"Effective environmental stewardship is key to improving the quality of life for all Tennesseans," said Bredesen. "Efforts like those represented here today are essential to the continued protection and conservation of Tennessee’s fantastic natural resources. Congratulations to each of these volunteers whose work has ensured we have a cleaner, healthier Tennessee."

The partnership between The Nature Conservancy, state and federal agencies, county governments and local landowners addresses erosion and sediment in the Hatchie watershed. The Hatchie River is one of just a few rivers in Tennessee that has not been channelized and where the natural flow of the river remains unchanged. Under the leadership of The Nature Conservancy and with the cooperation of local landowners, the partnership is restoring deep, eroding river channel in Richland Creek to its natural state. The partnership is also designing erosion control measures and exploring other conservation measures within the Dry Creek watershed.

"Each of us has a responsibility to protect our shared environment, and we must involve every Tennessean in environmental protection," said Child. "We are here today honoring individuals and organizations whose work demonstrates real commitment to the stewardship of our natural resources. Indeed, they are modeling the way for others."

Each year, the Environmental and Conservation Stewardship Awards program recognizes exemplary voluntary actions that improve or protect our environment and natural resources. These projects are not required by law or regulations.

A panel of judges representing agricultural, conservation, forestry, environmental and academic professionals select award recipients from many well-deserving nominated projects in several categories.

For more information about the Environment and Conservation Stewardship Awards program, visit the TDEC website at www.tdec.net/awards.

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