#451 - Bats & Mussels to Caves & Rivers: Tennessee’s Wildlife Action Plan Is A Game-Changer!

Get ready for an electrifying episode of Tennessee WildCast with hosts Jason Harmon and Don King. This week, we’re diving into the heart of the Volunteer State’s biodiversity with an action-packed show that’s all about the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). Join us as we explore Tennessee’s incredible natural diversity, from Mountain City to Memphis, with over 1,600 species under the care of our dedicated Biodiversity Division. Our guests, Josh Campbell and Chris Simpson, spill the beans on their thrilling careers—stocking fish, surveying caves, and protecting everything from bats to mussels. Learn how the SWAP, a proactive conservation blueprint since 2005, keeps Tennessee’s wildlife thriving by tackling threats and prioritizing habitats. With vibrant stories of cave-diving teams, conservation partnerships, and the upcoming Tennessee Biodiversity Summit on October 22nd at MTSU, this episode is a must-listen for nature lovers! Discover how you can get involved, from volunteering to exploring SWAP’s interactive maps at TNswap.com or TNwildlife.org. Don’t miss the chance to hear about white-nose syndrome, endangered species like the Indiana bat, and the tireless work of a small but mighty team of 27 making a massive impact. Like, share, and keep coming back for more Tennessee WildCast—your ticket to the wild side of Tennessee!