Algae choked water pools behind the lowhead dam in Franklin

The Water Quality Protection Program works on projects like:

Demonstrating use of tools for Williamson County, City of Franklin, and developers to use to plan growth and set aside undeveloped areas to minimize water pollution and stream bank erosion from new development — specifically focusing on the Five Mile Creek growth corridor along I-65.

Bringing in expertise and facilitating discussions on the appropriate analysis to determine how to maintain adequate flow in rivers like the Harpeth for fish, wildlife, and recreation, and increase water use efficiency as drinking water needs grow in communities like Franklin that withdraw from the Harpeth.

Responding to issues that arise such as working with state legislators on the importance of the State of Tennessee Scenic Rivers Act to protect important waterways like the Harpeth, one of 13 state scenic rivers, by prohibiting landfills near select scenic rivers in the Act to reduce the risk of water pollution.

Current Issues and Projects:  2010-2012


Franklin Restoration of Harpeth River at Lowhead Dam in Franklin: Removal of structure and installation of Natural Channel Design Features and upgrade Blueway canoe access.

Reduce Discharges into Harpeth From Sewage Treatment Plants:  Bring water quality in the river during the low flow summer months back up to state required standards that protect human health and wildlife.

IMPORTANT UPDATE APRIL 2012:  City of Franklin's Consultants propose long-term sewer and water plan that does not improve water quality in the Harpeth.