TWRA Issues 2026 Labor Day Boating Report

Thursday, September 10, 2026 | 10:00am

NASHVILLE --- The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is pleased to report no boating-related fatalities over the Labor Day holiday weekend. The TWRA Boating and Law Enforcement Division compiled the holiday statistics after receiving reports from the Agency’s four regions.  

There were three injury incidents across the state, occurring on Kentucky Lake, Chickamauga, and Watts Bar reservoirs. There were four other property damage incidents. TWRA game wardens made eight boating under the influence (BUI) arrests.

Over the three major weekends of the summer boating season, which also includes Memorial Day and July 4th, there were no fatalities during those extended periods. It also marks the fifth consecutive year for no boating fatalities over the Labor Day weekend. Statewide boating‑related fatalities total 15 for the year, down three from the same period in 2025.

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---