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Hello to all my River Neighbors and friends: 

This is a beautiful time of year to enjoy the outdoors, and we see plenty of hikers, walkers, and photographers on our trails. We have about 180 miles of trails, including six new miles added this summer on the Loyston system. Mountain bikers have been eager to try out that new loop, but not everyone is that adventurous! If you’re looking for more of a gentle stroll, look at our new story that points you to the easiest TVA trails.
 
As Halloween approaches, our scientists and researchers at TVA remind you this is International Bat Week, and although bats have a bad image, they are friends to the ecosystem and play an important role. We have programs that help save endangered and threatened bat species, including placing tiny tags on some of them so we can track their movements. It’s pretty interesting work, and you can learn more here.
 
Teachers and homeschool parents: our Public Outreach group has been busy creating some new videos for you in which we recreate our popular water monitoring class. You can request free supplies too. Find all the information here.
 
Enjoy your time on TVA public lands and waters, and of course, remember to be safe. Watch for wildlife along the trails that may be more active in cooler weather, and always obey warning signs when boating. We’re happy to host you. Have a great autumn.
 
Allen Clare
Vice President, TVA River & Resources Stewardship

We’re bats about bats!

Bats get a bad rap. After all, they’re often portrayed as spooky, freaky, or downright nasty when in truth, they’re our helpful neighbors. Unless seriously disturbed or harmed, bats are peaceful and quiet, and bats in our area eat bugs, not blood—feasting on moths, flies, beetles, and mosquitoes. In fact, the more you understand about bats, the more you want them around.
Bringing Back the Bats (tva.com)

Older adults enjoy the many benefits of hiking

Staying active on trails can allow for stronger muscles and improved heart health. These benefits shine through whether the path requires a brisk walk or an intensive hike.
Trekking TVA Trails

Hands-on water monitoring labs let kids be scientists for a day

It’s a muggy, late-summer afternoon, and the sixth-grade students in Jackie Greer’s classroom at Mumford Middle School are restless. They’re here to learn about science, but outside the classroom in Tipton County, Tenn., a mix of fresh air, freedom, and the ever-present cell phone beckons. Until that is, Jessica Stevens walks in. 
How's the Water? (tva.com)

Tiny snail darter makes a big comeback

TVA's 49-year history with the snail darter first began when University of Tennessee ichthyologist Dr. David Etnier discovered the small unknown fish in the Little Tennessee River in 1973.
Threatened No Longer (tva.com)

Taking out the trash

Plastic bottles, tennis shoe soles, and various sports balls trash the islands of the Tennessee River near Knoxville. Across the world, various lakes, rivers, and oceans continue to be filled with litter. However, intense efforts combat this in the Tennessee Valley region.
Escaping the Trash: Keep the Tennessee River Beautiful Works to Improve the Valley (tva.com)

So much more than fishing

C.A.S.T for Kids makes a difference in the lives of children with special needs.
So Much More Than Fishing (tva.com)

His job is for the birds (literally)

If you’re looking for Damien Simbeck, an excellent place to start is outside. On any given day, he’s working toward a goal that many people don’t even know exists - balancing the use of TVA public land with resource stewardship to achieve the most significant benefit for the public.
A Love for the Outdoors (tva.com)

Camp-Right Campgrounds

Is your favorite campground closing for winter? There are plenty of opportunities for late fall - early winter fun at a Tennessee Valley Camp-Right Campground. Our list of certified campgrounds provides an easy way to plan your next adventure. Word to the wise – Be prepared for whatever the weather throws your way!

Tennessee RiverLine

Is it getting too chilly to paddle? The Tennessee RiverLine has you covered. Though words and photos, viewers can enjoy a virtual paddle that takes them down 652 miles of this storied river. Stop at all 20 Tennessee RiverLine communities and discover more about this generational project.

Explore TRV

November is Native American Heritage Month, the ideal time for a cultural adventure in southeastern Tennessee and a deep dive into history.  Over 20 federally recognized Native American groups have a religious and cultural connection to this area. Celebrate these Indigenous people by exploring their ancestry, culture, and art at tva.com/tribal. The information you need for an unforgettable trip is at Explore TRV.

Clean Marina

Even when cold weather arrives, a marina operator’s job is not over. A slight water system leak can be surprisingly wasteful if not quickly repaired. Often, a simple alteration, like automatic shut-off nozzles on hoses, can make a big difference. Technology, such as a Wi-Fi-enabled water hose, helps marinas become even more environmentally friendly. Visit Tennessee Valley Clean Marinas to discover more.

The Wayback Machine

It’s always a great day when you have a great catch. This angler shows off a string of fish he caught near Andersonville Boat Dock on Norris Lake in 1945.

Explore with the Tennessee River Valley MapGuide
Looking for new places to explore by foot, car, or boat? Check out the Tennessee River Valley MapGuide. There are plenty of things to see and do close to home.

Got a question? Pick the PLIC
TVA’s Public Land Information Center (PLIC) is your single source for answers to questions about a variety of public land topics, including recreational opportunities and shoreline permits. Call (800) 882-5263 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET or submit your question using the form found here.

Ongoing maintenance:
Keep up with road closings, bridge repairs, and all kinds of things here.

See past issues of River Neighbors here.

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Boone Dam Project
We publish this newsletter to keep TVA's stakeholders informed about the programs and projects associated with TVA’s environmental stewardship, recreation and river management efforts.

Our mailing address is:
Tennessee Valley Authority
400 West Summit Hill Drive
Knoxville, TN 37902

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