TVA , U.S. Fish and Wildlife Collaborate To Protect Endangered Species

March 5, 2007

TVA will fine tune its management and operation of the Tennessee River system to enhance protection of sensitive species following a review of the effects of operations at TVA dams along the entire length of the river system.

The review was performed after lengthy discussions with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and it resulted in a better understanding by the USFWS and Tennessee Valley states of TVA’s integrated operation of the river system and the benefits it provides. As a result of the review, TVA is adjusting operations at three dams -- Bear Creek and Wilson Dams in Alabama and Tims Ford Dam in Tennessee. TVA will also conduct additional fish studies at Great Falls Reservoir in Tennessee.

“The USFWS appreciates TVA’s collaborative process, which included the USFWS and Tennessee Valley states, in assessing the operation of dams and their effects on fish and wildlife in the Tennessee Valley region,” said USFWS Supervisor Lee Barclay. “We cooperated fully with TVA throughout this study. This collaboration led to a better understanding among agencies of how we can collectively work to support continued health of multiple fish and other aquatic and wildlife species in the Tennessee Valley.”

TVA staff worked first to identify the species of plants and animals that could be affected by its operation of dams and reservoir structures. After careful review of these species in conjunction with USFWS, it was determined that TVA operations have a positive effect on the environment, helping a number of species including the preservation of endangered mussels. However, adverse impacts on some other species were also identified.

The USFWS requested that TVA make adjustments in its operations at some dams to reduce or eliminate adverse effects. TVA began immediately implementing the adjustments to operations at the dams.

Changes include lessening water level fluctuations year round, monitoring various fish and mussel species, continued work on stream bank stabilization and restoring habitats.

“These adjustments we are making as a result of this review are part of TVA’s mission to be good stewards of the environment,” said TVA aquatic biologist Peggy Shute, lead staff member on the collaborative review process. “TVA is doing the right things necessary to protect Tennessee Valley resources.”

TVA is the nation’s largest public power provider and is completely self-financed. TVA provides power to large industries and 158 power distributors that serve approximately 8.7 million consumers in seven southeastern states. TVA also manages the Tennessee River and its tributaries to provide multiple benefits, including flood damage reduction, navigation, water quality and recreation.

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Barbara Martocci, (423) 751-7153
TVA News Bureau, Knoxville, (865) 632-6000

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