Walley Wrap: Preserving Outdoor Heritage and Improving Waterways

This year, the state budget prioritized investments in preserving Tennessee’s outdoor heritage, specifically improving waterways. With 29 major reservoir lakes, over 61,000 miles of rivers and streams, and countless small lakes and ponds – waterways are a cornerstone of Tennessee’s outdoor heritage. Our rivers, particularly, are sources of commerce, energy production and sustenance to our farmers and communities that depend on them for existence. That is one of the reasons for our rich heritage in flood management, electricity generation, and transportation of goods. 

With the Tennessee river flowing through our district and the Mississippi providing access to the world for goods and services, we need to pay particular attention to good stewardship of these waterways.

Related to this, I have been asked to serve on the Mississippi River Basin legislative cohort, made up of legislators from states bordering the Mississippi River. Our assignment is to collaborate on policies and practices to enhance flood control and navigation on the Mississippi. With Memphis being one of the largest ports on the Mississippi, this is particularly important for our area. 

In regards to waterways investments, I am probably most proud of our legislature agreeing with me to invest $5 million in the City of Savannah’s ongoing efforts to construct a marina on the Tennessee river in Savannah to recognize its importance as a recreational and commercial destination. Commercial river boats are making weekly stops in Savannah and bringing tourists to the region. These funds will enhance their experience and be a significant economic development boost for the community and the region. I will be saying more in the coming weeks on this tremendous development for our district. 

I am also pleased that this year the state budget allocates $15M to the Tennessee Blueways initiative, aimed at enhancing water-based recreation like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The Tennessee Blueways initiative is focused on conserving, developing, and supporting recreational waterways. It aims to ensure sustainable use, promote rural tourism, support economic development, and maintain water quality. Conservation of these waterways is just as crucial as the recreational use. 

This initiative will focus on specific rivers in each grand division that have nominal or zero industrial traffic on the waterway. The initial rivers will be determined through input from state and local officials and stakeholders. 

The Tennessee Blueways Initiative will help to ensure that Tennessee’s extraordinary recreational waterways are preserved, protected, and shared with Tennesseans, our grandchildren, and their grandchildren for generations to come.

I am so grateful to serve as our state senator and never take it for granted. Please contact my office if I can be of assistance to you at (615) 741-2368 or sen.page.walley@capitol.tn.gov.

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