OWCA provides educational information and resources to help promote understanding of the Obed River watershed, its ecosystems, and the importance of responsible stewardship.
Citizen Science & Observation
Occultation Tutorial 👈
This video provides an overview of occlusion observations and their use in scientific research. Education resources like this support citizen science efforts and increase understanding of observational data collection.
Recreation & Place-Based Learning
Obed Wild and Scenic River Trailer 👈
This short trailer introduces the Obed Wild and Scenic River, its unique geology, recreational opportunities, and the importance of conservation and stewardship.
The Obed Experience 👈
This video offers an immersive look at the landscapes, recreation, and natural features of the Obed Wild and Scenic River, highlighting why this area is valued by visitors and the surrounding community.
Hiking at the Obed Wild and Scenic River 👈
An overview of hiking opportunities within the Obed Wild and Scenic River, showcasing trails, scenery, and responsible outdoor recreation in the watershed.
Educational materials, including fact sheets, guides, presentations, and other informational resources, will be shared as they become available.
This section includes maps and reference information related to the Obed River watershed.
Watershed maps and related materials help illustrate watershed boundaries, natural features, and the relationship between land use and water resources.
Additional information may be added as materials are identified or developed.
Native plants play a vital role in protecting the Obed River watershed by supporting local wildlife, improving soil health, and preserving the region's natural balance. The resources below are provided to help you learn more and make informed planting choices.
Description of Native Plants
Learn what native plants are, why they matter, and how they support local ecosystems.
👉 View Description of Native Plants (PDF)
Picture Catalog of Native Plants
A visual guide to help identify native plants found in our region.
👉 View Picture Catalog (PDF)
Bloom Times for Native Plants
Plan your planting with a seasonal bloom guide for native species.
👉 View Description of Native Plants (Excel)
Photos of native plants observed in the watershed are available in our Photo Gallery.
Native plants play an important role in supporting healthy ecosystems within the Obed River watershed. Incorporating native plants into home landscapes can benefit pollinators, wildlife, and local waterways.
This section provides educational information and resources on native plant species and their benefits.
Additional resources will be added and shared through this section as information becomes available.
Native Plants Sold Locally
OWCA maintains a limited inventory of native plants to support habitat restoration and encourage the use of native species within the Obed River watershed.
To inquire about current availability or arrange a pickup time, please email obedwatershed1@gmail.com or call (931) 484-9033.
OWCA does not have a storefront. Native plants are made available periodically and only by arrangement. Availability may vary by season.
Tennessee Smart Yards
Tennessee Smart Yards is a University of Tennessee Extension program that promotes environmentally friendly yard practices, including the use of native plants, reduced chemical inputs, and improved stormwater management. These practices help protect local waterways and support healthy ecosystems within the Obed River watershed.
Invasive plant species can threaten native habitats, reduce biodiversity, and impact watershed health.
This section will include general information and educational resources on invasive plants and their impacts in the Obed River watershed, along with links to trusted external sources when available.
OWCA shares reports, publications, and reference documents related to watershed protection, conservation efforts, and community initiatives.
Documents may include organizational reports, educational publications, and materials developed in partnership with other organizations.
Additional items will be added as they become available.
This section includes links to external resources, partner organizations, and downloadable materials related to the Obed River watershed and environmental stewardship.
Links and downloads are provided for informational purposes and will be updated as new resources are identified.
OWCA works alongside and learns from many regional and statewide organizations dedicated to conservation, stewardship, education, and outdoor recreation. The organizations listed below are provided as informational resources and are not operated by OWCA.
Land & Water Conservation (State/ Regional)
Cumberland River Compact 👈
A watershed-based nonprofit working to improve water quality and environmental health across the Cumberland River basin.
Friends of Cumberland Mountain 👈
A nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting land, water, and natural resources in the Cumberland Mountain region through conservation, stewardship, and community engagement.
Save Our Cumberland Mountains (SOCM) 👈
A nonprofit organization working to protect the land, air, water, and communities of the Cumberland Plateau.
TennGreen Land Conservancy 👈
A nonprofit land trust working to protect important natural areas and scenic landscapes across Tennessee.
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation 👈
Oversees water quality, scenic rivers, and conservation programs across Tennessee.
Tennessee Environmental Council 👈
A statewide nonprofit organization focused on advancing environmental education, conservation, and sustainable policies related to Tennessee's land, water, and natural resources.
Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency 👈
Manages fish, wildlife, and habitat conservation statewide.
The Nature Conservancy of Tennessee 👈
The Tennessee chapter of The Nature Conservancy, focused on science-based conservation to protect lands and waters.
Native Plants & Ecosystems
Lady Bird Jonson Wildlife Center 👈
A national leader in native plant research, conservation, and education.
Tennessee Native Plant Society 👈
An organization promoting the conservation, education, and appreciation of Tennessee's native plants and ecosystems.
University of Tennessee Extension 👈
Provides research-based education o water, soil, native plants, and sustainable land-use practices.
Rivers & Watersheds
Tennessee Citizens for Wilderness Planning (TCWP) 👈
A nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting Tennessee's wild and scenic rivers and promoting wilderness conservation through research, education, and long-range planning.
Tennessee RiverLine 👈
A statewide initiative working to connect communities, conserve river resources, and promote stewardship and economic vitality along Tennessee's rivers.
Tennessee Scenic Rivers Association 👈
A statewide nonprofit advocating for the protection and stewardship of Tennessee's rivers and streams.
Tennessee Stormwater Association (TNSA)👈
A state-wide organization promoting education, training, and best practices related to stormwater management and water quality protection.
Trails, Recreation, & Stewardship
Cumberland Trail Conservancy 👈
An organization dedicated to developing, maintaining, and promoting hiking trails throughout the Cumberland Plateau.
Friends of the Cumberland Trail 👈
Supports development, maintenance, and stewardship of the Cumberland Trail system.
National Park Service - Tennessee 👈
Manages the Obed Wild and Scenic River and other protected lands in Tennessee.
Tennessee Trails Association 👈
A volunteer-driven organization supporting trail building, maintenance, and advocacy across Tennessee.
Citizen Science & Environmental Education
iNaturalist 👈
A platform for documenting plants and wildlife observations.
SciStarter 👈
Connects people to citizen science projects across many disciplines.
Supporters may purchase items that help promote OWCA and its mission through our Online Store.
Orders are processed individually by our vendor and shipped directly to your address. Availability and offerings may vary.