Mollusk Conservation Coordinator Provides Insight at Native Plant Society’s Annual Conference

Did you know that the Duck River in Middle Tennessee supports one of the richest freshwater mussel populations in the state, with more mussel species than almost any other river in Tennessee? This was just one of the many fascinating insights presented at the Tennessee Native Plant Society (TNPS) 2026 Annual Conference by Brittany Bajo-Walker, Statewide Mollusk Conservation Coordinator and Aquatic Biologist with the TWRA, who shared her expertise on freshwater mussels and aquatic conservation in Tennessee.

Brittany highlighted the important ecological role freshwater mussels play in maintaining healthy rivers and streams. These remarkable animals naturally filter and purify water, and their complex life cycle depends on fish to help disperse their young. We also learned how mussels move within streambeds to adjust to changing conditions, avoid stress, and position themselves for the best access to food and water flow. Brittany and her husband, Adam, brought along several mussels collected from the Duck River over the weekend, giving everyone an up-close look at these incredible aquatic animals.

One of the most memorable parts of the presentation was hearing about Brittany’s fieldwork, which often involves snorkeling and scuba diving alongside team members to study mussels in their natural habitat and gather valuable conservation data. It was an inspiring reminder of the extraordinary biodiversity hidden beneath the surface of Tennessee’s waterways and of the dedicated people working to protect it. We sincerely appreciate Brittany’s contributions to our conference.

Photo caption: Pictured from left in an outing on the Duck River are Todd Amacker (TVA), Brittany Bajo-Walker (TWRA), Tim Lane (TWRA), and Matt Reed (TVA). 

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