COLUMBIA, Tenn. (WZTV) — The Duck River Conservancy Board of Directors voted to oppose efforts to revive the halted Columbia Dam project.
“Our top priority is the preservation of the Duck River, and this dam would seriously harm the biological diversity and environmental health of one of our nation’s most important rivers,” said Doug Jones, chairman of the Duck River Conservancy.
The Duck River stretches 248 miles and is home to over 50 species of freshwater mussels and 151 species of fish. The river provides water for approximately 250,000 Middle Tennessee residents and supports recreational activities for about 150,000 people annually.
The river has been affected by historic drought conditions and increased water withdrawals by utilities. Duck River Conservancy says the river would have less water if the dam is built. The Tennessee Wildlife Federation also has previously spoken out for the protection of Duck River.
Landowners have raised concerns about the dam’s efficacy, pointing to severe water waste by utilities due to leaking pipes. According to Duck River Conservancy, experts estimate that some utilities along the river experience up to 40% loss of existing water supplies because of poor infrastructure.
“These companies should focus on making good use of the water we already have, rather than sucking up even more water from an endangered river,” said Danny Rochelle, vice president of the Duck River Conservancy. Rochelle stressed the importance of protecting the river from the pressures of growth and development.
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