NASHVILLE, Tenn. – House Majority Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison, R-Cosby, has secured $100,000 in state funding for the Pigeon River Outfitters Association. The funds will be used for an in-depth study by river engineers to determine how to restore the river for whitewater rafting and other recreational activities. “The Pigeon River is a vital waterway […]
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – House Majority Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison, R-Cosby, has secured $100,000 in state funding for the Pigeon River Outfitters Association.
The funds will be used for an in-depth study by river engineers to determine how to restore the river for whitewater rafting and other recreational activities.
“The Pigeon River is a vital waterway and an important part of the fabric of East Tennessee,” said Faison. “This important project will enhance the rapids into a world-class destination for rafters and water enthusiasts while ensuring future generations can continue enjoying the river’s natural beauty. I’m grateful to my colleagues for supporting this investment and I look forward to seeing the incredible result of this study.”
The Pigeon River stretches more than 70 miles, flowing from Western North Carolina into the French Broad River in East Tennessee. Faison in May joined the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) in releasing approximately 10,000 walleye into the river to support fish populations and bolster natural reproduction.
The appropriated funds are part of a $59.8 billion balanced budget passed by lawmakers in April. Republican priorities include significant investments to improve academic outcomes, provide disaster relief for victims of Hurricane Helene, enhance public safety for all Tennesseans and increase funding to address transportation infrastructure needs.
Republicans also emphasized conservation and agriculture efforts like farmland preservation, new Tennessee State Parks and increased opportunities for environmental education and sciences.
State Rep. Jeremy Faison of Cosby represents District 11 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes Cocke and part of Hamblen and Jefferson counties.