Over the last year, our community along with local and state lawmakers battled for protections for the Duck River- the most biodiverse river in North America, which is located in my hometown.
This is still an issue we are facing: Learn more, get involved.
The Duck River at Finch Island in Maury County
However, a Louisiana-based company is proposing a 300+ acre regional landfill that would be located approximately 1,000 feet from the Duck River at an old Monsanto site. The old Monsanto property is designated as a Superfund site, which is mandated for EPA rehabilitation due to the presence of hazardous waste. (Source: The Columbia Daily Herald)
Members of the Maury County community packed the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee meetings as House Bill 477- the Scenic Duck River Bill was discussed and ultimately signed into law.
This was a big win for our river, but the out-of-state company continued to push forward by pursuing an appeal against our regional waste management board’s decision to deny a permit for the landfill.
So, a group of concerned citizens formed to inform our community about this threat to our most vital natural resource. We set up on the courthouse square, formed a committee for a music and silent auction event and I pushed out press coverage, emails, and social media campaigns to get people’s attention and to help offset legal fees associated with fighting this multi-million dollar company.
Duck River outreach during First Fridays in Columbia, Tennessee.
DUCK RIVER JAM: On Instagram: A community event to raise awareness and benefit the Scenic Duck River. #theduckriverismyjam
The Duck River Jam and Silent Auction (link to social reel) at Columbia State Community College raised awareness and $43,000.
As I type, this battle isn’t over. This company continues to seek to create a 300+ acre regional landfill on the banks of this biodiverse sanctuary for thousands of animals and protected species of muscle and snail, a recreational waterway, and the sole source of drinking water for 300,000+ people.
Me and the fam on one of our many trips down the Duck River.
We must do better and think deeply about our future generations of animals and the communities to come.