Duck River Update
As we experience historic drought conditions in Hickman and Lewis Counties, it is clear that this issue cannot be ignored. We must demand immediate action to ensure that the Duck River and her tributaries remain healthy and vibrant long after we are gone.
Middle Tennessee continues to experience significant residential and industrial growth, creating more opportunities for our residents to build better lives.
While we enjoy a slower pace and quieter life in Dickson, Hickman and Lewis Counties, the impact of this rapid growth is still felt indirectly in our communities.
The natural resources we cherish and rely on, like the waters that flow in our springs, creeks and rivers, are viewed as commodities to be captured and redirected to the hundreds of pop-up neighborhoods and industries recruited to create jobs for the new residents arriving daily in our neighboring counties to the east.
As demand for these resources rises dramatically, we must demand that our state and community leaders establish a balance between courting or welcoming growth and preserving the critical resources that sustain us and make our area so desirable.
Some necessities like electric power, internet access, or wastewater treatment can be built or expanded to meet the demand. Water, however, is a finite resource that cannot yet be produced in a factory for mass distribution. Where we source our drinking water and how we deliver it to your tap requires careful, long-term planning with constant care placed on protecting the source for future generations.
Listen to my comments here and see for yourself.
As we experience historic drought conditions in Hickman and Lewis Counties, it is clear that this issue cannot be ignored. We must demand immediate action to ensure that the Duck River and her tributaries remain healthy and vibrant long after we are gone.
Farmers from Shady Grove to Only and all points in between depend on us to protect and preserve their way of life as fervently and aggressively as we promote and recruit new industry and economic growth.
I am committed to being part of the solution—working with our state’s leaders and local communities to ensure the preservation of Duck River for generations to come.
Together, we can protect what makes Middle Tennessee special while fostering sustainable growth.
You can read more about my efforts here and here.
I will keep you updated as we push forward with this important work, and I encourage you to share your thoughts and concerns by emailing me at jodybarrettfortn@gmail.com or visiting my Facebook page.
Sincerely,
Jody Barrett
State Representative, 69th District