An unidentified speaker at the banks of the Duck River in Tennessee urged immediate action to protect the river, saying it is among the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the state and the world and that a conservation strategy has been developed over several years.

The speaker, identified in the transcript only as "Unidentified Speaker," described a lifelong connection to Tennessee rivers and made a direct appeal to preserve them for children and grandchildren. "Our rivers are very unique in Tennessee, and this river in particular is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems, not only in Tennessee, but in the entire world," the speaker said.

The remarks framed conservation as both an environmental and a stewardship priority. The speaker said a conservation strategy has been "developed over the next several years and including the past several years that recognizes the value of our natural resources and our need to protect them." The speaker linked such planning to future recreational and scientific activities, saying that only by considering conservation now "will our children and our grandchildren be able to paddle these rivers and fish these rivers and tag mussels in these rivers."

No formal policy action, vote, or sponsoring organization is recorded in the transcript. The remarks appear to be an appeal to the public and to stakeholders to cooperate on conservation efforts rather than the announcement of a new, binding regulation or funding decision.

The speaker closed by urging collaboration: "That's why we have to work together, and we will work together to make sure that Tennessee stays the most beautiful state in America." The statement sets a public call to action but does not specify timelines, funding sources, implementing agencies, or legally binding measures.