Founded in 1997, the Cumberland River Compact is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization
with a mission to enhance the water quality of the Cumberland River and its
tributaries through education and by promoting cooperation among citizens,
businesses, and agencies in Kentucky and Tennessee. The Compact stresses that a
responsible community will have both a strong economy and a healthy environment. We
strive to seek out the most accurate information and communicate that information to the
broadest array of citizens possible. Our vision is to be a trusted source of information and
education on water quality and to facilitate cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure
that our rivers and streams continue to provide us with clean water, bountiful crops,
healthy fisheries, and abundant recreational opportunities.
Where We Work
The Cumberland River winds for over 696 miles through Kentucky and Tennessee. The area
through which it flows is known for harboring some of the greatest biodiversity in the United
States. It covers 40 counties in Tennessee, 32 in Kentucky and is home to over 2,000,000 people.
Many of the same problems which plague other watersheds (high levels of erosion, sedimentation,
a variety of point and non-point issues) are gaining a foothold here. The Cumberland River Compact
is working proactively to enhance the waters that flow within the 18,000 square miles of land that make up the Cumberland River Basin.
Know what the major Cumberland River pollutant is? Well, it is the DIRT and
the other "stuff" from our yards, our roofs and our driveways that runs off
every time we have a good rain.
If we all kept our dirt in our own yards, the river would be a lot healthier
and safer for everyone.
Visit the Sediment page to learn more about Muddy Waters and what YOU can do
to keep your dirt at home.
