Roger McCoy Named Keynote Speaker for 2025 Tennessee Biodiversity Summit

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. --- Director of Conservation with Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Roger McCoy, a distinguished leader in conservation, has been announced as the keynote speaker for the 2025 Tennessee Biodiversity Summit. The one-day summit will be held on October 22 at Middle Tennessee State University and will spotlight ongoing efforts to protect the state’s rich biological diversity.   

McCoy, currently the Director of Conservation for TDEC, has dedicated 26 years to advancing conservation strategies for state lands and rare species. He also holds the honorary title of State Naturalist, awarded in recognition of his vast knowledge, contributions, and impacts in stewardship and conservation.

Like most in conservation, McCoy was drawn to an outdoor career from a young age, after reading his father’s wildlife magazine and finding an interest in game species. His interest took him to Southern Illinois University where his focus and interests expanded to botany. After receiving his M.S. in plant biology, McCoy’s skills and knowledge brought him to TDEC where he has served in distinctive roles and advanced conservation strategies for natural areas and rare species.  

“Roger McCoy is held in high regard for his contributions to conservation in the state,” said Josh Campbell, Chief of Biodiversity at TWRA. “McCoy is known for his outgoing personality and enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and passion about biodiversity. His fervent knowledge of Tennessee’s conservation and preservation reflects the intentions of this summit. He is a perfect introduction to this event.”

McCoy expressed enthusiasm about addressing a diverse audience and emphasized the summit’s all-encompassing spirit. “This event is inclusive and invites everyone into the realm of conservation in Tennessee,” he said. His keynote will focus on finding common ground in conservation and ways to engage residents across the state in protecting its rich natural heritage.

Organized by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), the summit highlights research and management projects dedicated to preserving Tennessee’s unique wildlife diversity. It aims to bring together anyone with an interest in the outdoors including scientists, bird watchers, land managers, students, and nature enthusiasts, for a day of learning and inspiration.

The summit will feature eight speakers from across the conservation landscape along with educational booths, networking opportunities, and more. Anyone with an interest in the outdoors, wildlife, or protecting Tennessee’s natural resources is encouraged to attend. Registration is now open here.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.

---TWRA---

More Information about the 2025 Tennessee Biodiversity Summit