Tennessee, along with all 50 states, has developed a pro-active State Wildlife Action Plan to conserve fish and wildlife before they become too rare, and while it is still cost-effective to protect them.

Tennessee is one of the most bio-diverse states in the nation, with over 1,400 species of fish and wildlife. Many of these species are declining because they lack adequate habitat.  They occupy all kinds of habitats, and can be found in all regions of Tennessee. It’s not too late to take pro-active actions to conserve these species, to keep them healthy for now and future generations.

Tennessee’s State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) outlines specific consensus steps developed by scientists, sportsmen, conservationists AND members of the local public, working together.  The plan represents an unprecedented effort to develop a comprehensive plan that would lead to the conservation of all of Tennessee’s wildlife.

To accomplish this effort, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and The Nature Conservancy came together in partnership to develop a blueprint for action to conserve our fish and wildlife. The plan also had input from numerous agencies, organizations, and individuals, and represents the best available scientific knowledge on fish and wildlife.

Tennessee’s SWAP offers specific, immediate actions to protect all wildlife in the places they live, starting with the animals most in need of help and those for whom we can do the most good.  Additionally, supporting Tennessee’s SWAP will conserve our state’s wildlife and natural places by protecting clean water and air – making both wildlife and people healthier.
As our communities grow, Tennessee’s Wildlife Action Plan can help us fulfill our responsibility to conserve wildlife and the places they live for future generations.

Tennessee is one of the nation’s fastest growing states, and the SWAP identifies the most important areas in the state to conserve for wildlife – conserving these important wildlife areas will help us grow responsibly, and protect our quality of life.

For more information on the Tennessee SWAP, click here.