Download the Tennessee Factsheet

Download the LWCF Factsheet for Tennessee, FY 12 Projects and Talking Points

Download the LWCF Support Letter from Mayors

LWCF Success in Tennessee

The Land and Water Conservation Fund has helped protect some of Tennessee’s most treasured places.  Tennessee has receieved more than $134 million over the past four decades, protecting places such as the Cherokee National Forest and the Stones River National Battlefield.

Obed Wild and Scenic River

The Obed Wild and Scenic River is one of the crown jewels of the northern Cumberland Mountains in TN.  Flowing through Morgan and Cumberland counties, the Obed is critical to local economies and communities as a tourist and recreational destination.  Working with the Park Service; local county governments, tourism boards, and non-profits (such as Friends of the Obed, TNC and TN Citizens for Wilderness Planning) have raised critical funds to match LWCF money used to acquire and protect critical riparian corridor, public access points and scenic vistas along the Obed - maintaining its reputation as one of the most beautiful rivers in the eastern U.S.

Economic Benefits

Active outdoor recreation is an important part of the Tennessee economy.  The Outdoor Industry Association has found that active outdoor recreation contributes more than $6.3 billion annually to Tennessee’s economy, supports 67,000 jobs across Tennessee, generates $297 million in annual state tax revenue and produces $4.6 billion annually in retail sales and services across Tennessee.  Further, the
U.S. Census reports that each year over 2.8 million people enjoy hunting, fishing and watching wildlife across Tennessee, contributing $2.3 billion to the state economy from wildlife recreation spending. With full LWCF funding, Tennessee’s outdoor recreation economy will stay strong and continue to create sustainable long-term economic growth.

Download "The Active Outdoor Recreation Economy Report for Tennessee"

A man enjoys the natural beauty of the Cumberland Trail.