Third Tennessee Conservation Summit at Montgomery Bell State Park

The TWRA was well-represented at the third annual Tennessee Conservation Summit in early August at Montgomery Bell State Park in Dickson County where stakeholders gathered to align priorities and develop further strategies around conservation. There were 150 people registered for the event, representing multiple state and federal agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Gov. Bill Lee delivered the keynote address at the beginning of the two-day summit. TWRA Executive Director Jason Maxedon participated in a panel discussion with state leaders.

During the morning general session, TWRA Biodiversity Chief Josh Campbell gave a presentation on Tennessee’s State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). Later during the afternoon general session, Deputy Director Brandon Wear gave an overview of the TWRA Private Lands Management Plan. Biodiversity Assistant Chief for Aquatics Jason Miller made a presentation on Conservation and Recovery of Freshwater Mussels. On the second day, Public Relations Director Emily Buck gave a presentation on R3 (Recruit, Retain, Reactivate) during the final breakout session.

Following the sessions on the first day, Agency Fisheries staff were on hand to provide fishing opportunities for participants. Boating and Law Enforcement had the ROV unit on display. Staff also set up a fish attractor for viewing next to a display of the Bill Dance Signature Lakes.