Tennessee is preparing for the emergence of millions of 17-year cicadas. Brood Fourteen, which last appeared in 2008, will emerge when soil temperatures reach 64 degrees, anticipated in late April to early May. Although loud, these insects are harmless and will be prevalent throughout the state, particularly in East Tennessee. Experts indicate that the cicadas …
Category: Outdoors
Chattanooga is North America’s First National Park City
Chattanooga has been named the first National Park City in North America by the National Park City Foundation. This grassroots movement aims to make cities greener, healthier, and wilder. Chattanooga will prioritize connecting people to the outdoors, a key aspect of its identity. To celebrate, an event will be held on Saturday, April 19th, from …
Deadline Approaches for TWRA Calendar Entries
The March 17 deadline for entry into the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency 2025-26 photo contest for publication in the Tennessee Wildlife annual calendar is quickly approaching. All interested photographers are invited to submit up to 10 of their best photos of wildlife species native to the Volunteer State. Hunting, fishing, and boating photos are also welcome. The …
Miracle on the Mountain Play Outside Park Breaks Ground in Grundy County
The Miracle on the Mountain Play Outside Park groundbreaking was held Thursday in Grundy County. The organizers are so grateful to those who donated, volunteered, supported, inspired, and started the process many years ago so that the children of this county can enjoy this dream park. Miracle on the Mountain Play Outside Park, located at …
First Day Hikes at Tennessee State Parks
Tennessee State Parks will hold First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day. Most of the 59 state parks will host the events as part of the parks’ year-long Signature Hikes series. The free guided hikes, led by park rangers, are available for all ages and abilities. The First Day Hikes vary from easy walks to …
Waterfowl And Wild Bird Precautions For Avian Influenza
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is reminding hunters to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions as reported cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza increase among wild birds, backyard domestic flocks, and commercial poultry flocks in the Southeast. HPAI is highly contagious among bird populations and is known to be deadly for domestic fowl. “Numerous states …
Boat Registration, Hunting and Fishing Licenses Fees Increasing
As expected, the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission (TFWC) voted to raise hunting and fishing licenses in the state and boat registration fees. The increased fees will take effect July 1, 2025. The last such increase was in 2015. Wildlife officials said that the Consumer Price Index has increased by more than 31 percent since …
Vandals are Warned to Stay Away from City Decorations in Dunlap
As we enter the holiday season, you may have noticed that City of Dunlap employees have been busy decorating Harris Park with festive displays. They kindly request your cooperation in preserving these decorations, which reflect the community’s diligence and civic pride. The City of Dunlap maintains a strict policy against vandalism of city property and …
2024-25 Gun Hunting Season for Deer Opens November 23
Tennessee’s 2024-25 statewide gun hunting season for deer opens Saturday, Nov. 23. The season traditionally opens each year on the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving. During gun season, sportsmen may also use muzzleloaders or archery equipment. The statewide bag limit for antlered bucks is two. No more than one antlered deer may be taken per day, …
Hunting, Fishing, and Sportsman Licenses Might be Cost More Next Year
The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission (TFWC) discussed a proposal to increase prices for boating registration, hunting, fishing, and sportsman licenses, said the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). According to the Tennessee Secretary of State, annual boating registration fees currently range between $15 and $59. However, they would increase by 22%. Sportsman and Lifetime license fees, which …