TDEC Names Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency a Governor's Environmental Stewardship Award Recipient

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has named Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency (TWRA) as the recipient of the 2026 Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award for Water Quality. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards which honors individuals, businesses, and other organizations for their commitment to preserving the state’s natural resources.

The award for Water Quality recognizes measurable innovation in improving water quality, preserving water quantity, enhancing aquatic health, and advancing water treatment or conservation practices.

TWRA led a coalition of state, federal, and nonprofit partners as it completed the Harm’s Mill Dam Removal and Elk River Restoration Project, restoring the free-flowing condition of one of Tennessee’s most biologically significant [KG1.1][JD1.2]rivers. The obsolete low‑head dam was a longtime barrier to aquatic species and a public‑safety hazard and was removed in late 2025, marking the largest dam removal of its kind in Tennessee.

Located in Lincoln County, Harm’s Mill Dam was the only major barrier on the mainstem of the Elk River, dividing 804 downstream miles from 780 upstream miles. Its removal reconnected an extraordinary 1,114 miles of free‑flowing river, immediately reopening migration routes for fish, mussels, and other aquatic wildlife.

The ecological benefits are among the most significant of any recent restoration project in the state. According to TWRA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 46 species of greatest conservation need will benefit, including 19 federally listed species such as the rare boulder darter and multiple imperiled mussel species. Agencies also relocated sensitive fish and mussels before demolition to ensure species protection during construction.

The project also improves public safety and recreation. The deteriorated dam and abandoned powerhouse had become a known hazard, attracting visitors despite unstable conditions. The dam removal reduces danger to paddlers and anglers while enhancing overall river health and recreational quality on a popular paddling destination.

There are ten categories for the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards. Other recipients include:

• Agriculture and Forestry – Cumberland River Compact
• Building Green – iFixit
• Clean Air and Transportation Solutions – Clarksville-Montgomery County School System
• Environmental Education and Outreach – Clearloop and Jackson-Madison County School System
• Energy and Renewable Resources – Memphis Light, Gas and Water
• Materials Management – Toyota Boshoku Tennessee LLC
• Natural Resources – Keep the Tennessee River Beautiful
• ursuit of Excellence – OxyChem
• Sustainable Performance – Carlex Glass America, LLC

The Robert Sparks Walker Lifetime Achievement Award will be announced at the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards event in September.

For more information on the recipients and the awards program, visit the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards website.