Paris Tenn.–Supporting the county’s proactive stance to keep Henry County beautiful, Mayor John Penn Ridgeway recently proclaimed October as Keep the Tennessee River Watershed Beautiful Month.
“There are numerous reasons why this river and its watershed are important to us,” Ridgeway said. “Among the most vital is the role the river and its lush adjoining lands play in our local economy. As the most biodiverse river in North America, touting 230 species of fish, it is the linchpin of our recreation industry. Likewise, we can’t emphasize enough its role in helping the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) provide affordable electricity to our region.”
Rachel Terrell, manager of Public Outreach and Support, TVA Natural Resources agreed. “It’s inspiring for local leaders across the Valley to celebrate the value of the Tennessee River and its watershed. TVA appreciates Henry County’s informed leadership, including Mayor Ridgeway, the county commissioners, Keep Paris/Henry County Beautiful, and Keep Tennessee Beautiful.”
Ridgeway reminded locals and visitors, alike, that “keeping litter off our roadsides and waterways begins with simply stowing trash in receptacles designed to keep it contained. Be especially careful that trash doesn’t blow out of your boat or truck,” he warned.
The mayor encouraged Henry Countians to “consider taking some time during the month of October to pick up a nearby road, street or shoreline and sharing your photos on social media to inspire others. You can also contact Henry County Litter Coordinator Diann McGuire at 731-642-3162 to find out when local litter pickup events are scheduled.”
TVA and Keep Tennessee Beautiful were founding partners who initiated the formation of Keep the Tennessee River Beautiful as a nonprofit that rallies support for the 652-mile Tennessee River. The organization has several opportunities to participate throughout the fall according to Terrell. Find out more at KeepTNRiverBeautiful.org.
Photo: Henry County Mayor John Ridgeway borrows a pen from Rachel Terrell, manager of Public Outreach and Support, TVA Natural Resources. Ridgeway recently signed a proclamation declaring October as Keep the Tennessee River Watershed Beautiful Month in Henry County. The two are joined by Diann McGuire, the county’s litter grant coordinator for Keep Paris/Henry County Beautiful-Henry County Litter Program. For more information contact McGuire at 731-642-3162.