The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has announced a plan to reintroduce the Red-cockaded Woodpecker (RCW), a species extirpated from Tennessee in 1994.
“The return of the Red-cockaded woodpecker is not just a biological milestone—it’s a triumph of collaboration for all Tennesseans,” said Governor Bill Lee. “From land acquisitions in the 1990s to recent restoration efforts, I am proud that this project reflects the power of shared vision and long-term commitment that benefits the Volunteer State. This is conservation at its best, and a promise kept to the land, the people, and future generations of Tennesseans.”
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker, once native to upland mature pine and oak-pine savannas in Tennessee, was extirpated from the state due to fire suppression, logging of old-growth pines, and habitat fragmentation. The last known RCW in Tennessee was observed in 1994 in the Cherokee National Forest.
"The reintroduction of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker is a landmark achievement for our great state,” said Jason Maxedon, Executive Director of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. “This effort reflects our agency’s deep commitment to restoring native species and the ecosystems they depend on. It’s a testament to what’s possible when state and federal partners work together with a shared vision for the future of our natural heritage."
The RCW project started through TDEC’s restoration of land in the Savage Gulf State Natural Area to protect the federally threatened white fringeless orchid. The project quickly expanded to include RCWs after biologists realized the large tracts of land could potentially support the RCW. Federal and state funding were used to initiate habitat restoration on approximately 1,200 acres. The reintroduction process is multifaceted and involves not only land restoration but also the acquisition of RCWs from other states through a federal process. All agencies involved have a completion goal and release of RCWs in 2028.
"Restoring the habitat in the Savage Gulf State Natural Area is another example of Tennessee leading the nation in balancing effective conservation and economic growth,” said TDEC Commissioner David Salyers. "In Tennessee, we care about protecting God's creation - what is authentically Tennessee - and people love living here and want to move here because they can enjoy places like Savage Gulf and the creatures that inhabit the land."
Restoring lands and ecosystems reflects the commitment and pride Tennesseans have to the natural world. Reestablishing a species is unprecedented and can only happen through the efforts of those tending to the natural world on behalf of all citizens of Tennessee. Known as one of the most biologically diverse inland states, Tennessee can look forward to adding a species back. Those wishing to support or learn more about the project can visit the partnership webpage.
David Hanni, Bird Conservation Biologist with TWRA, stated, “The goal of bringing back a species is a career highlight for many of us. Typically, when a wildlife species is lost, it is too lofty a task to restore all the pieces needed to bring it back. This restorative work through unparalleled partnership is something we can all celebrate and find pride in.”
USFWS RCW specialist John Doresky shared, “Some don’t understand the significance of restoration. The analogy of a house that has partially collapsed is a relative comparison. Some things can still thrive in the house, mice, insects, and a cat can find shelter. Flowers can grow through cracks, and water is still available for use. However, a main character meant for the house is missing. This partnership is bringing back the main character in this ecosystem.”
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.