Re-Air: Tennessee’s wetlands are at risk

Tennessee has a precious natural resource: wetlands. We even have wetlands right here in the heart of Nashville. And they are at risk.

During the 2025 legislative session, Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill that will cut some of the protections for wetlands across the state. Developers now have the option to build over wetlands without informing the state and will no longer be financially incentivized to develop around them.

Today, we hear why wetlands are a valuable part of a healthy ecosystem. We also break down the legislation and check in with local groups working to protect this natural resource.

This episode was produced by Caroline Eggers, WPLN’s environmental reporter, and Katherine Ceicys.

GUESTS

• Dr. Justin Murdock, Ecologist and Professor of Biology, Tennessee Tech University
• Grace Stranch, CEO, Harpeth Conservancy
• LaTricea Adams, President of Young, Gifted and Green

FURTHER READING & LISTENING

• WPLN | Wetlands have some protections in Tennessee. The state legislature might remove them.