TWRA News: TWRA Leasing Fields for 2026 Dove Season
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is seeking fields to lease for the upcoming 2026 dove hunting season. The first segment of dove season opens at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 1.
Landowners can earn up to $4,200 for providing a dove field for public hunting. These fields must be available for a minimum of three priority hunt dates in September.
Mourning doves are a popular game bird and one of the most widely distributed and abundant birds in North America. More mourning doves are harvested than all other migratory bird species combined in 39 of the continental states. In Tennessee, an estimated 28,000 hunters harvest approximately 399,000 mourning doves each year.
TWRA began its leased dove field program in the late 1980s, and the program has been very successful in providing quality hunting opportunities for hunters. In addition to leased fields, many public dove fields are provided on wildlife management areas (WMAs) in each TWRA region.
The standard fall leased field is a harvested grain field to which TWRA leases the hunting rights for three priority dates. The hunting access rate paid to landowners for fall leased fields may be up to $75 per acre for a maximum of 40 acres. Fields that are top-sown with wheat are eligible for an additional $30 per acre. Interested landowners must register their fields in August.
Anyone interested in leasing a dove field to TWRA should contact their regional office. TWRA offices can be reached between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (local time) using the following contact information:
- Region I (West Tennessee) 731-423-5725 or toll-free 800-372-3928
- Region II (Middle Tennessee) 615-781-6622 or toll-free 800-624-7406
- Region III (Upper Cumberland) 931-484-9571 or toll-free 833-402-4698
- Region IV (East Tennessee) 423-587-7037 or toll-free 800-332-0900
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.
—TWRA—
Smith County Announces Public Hearings on Proposed FY2026-2027 Budget and Property Tax Increase
The Smith County Budget Committee and Smith County Commission have announced two public hearings on Monday, Aug. 10, regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 (FY27) budget and a proposed property tax increase.
The first public hearing will be held by the Smith County Budget Committee at 5:15 p.m. at the Smith County Jail & Courts Facility in Carthage. The hearing will provide residents with an opportunity to comment on the proposed FY27 Smith County Budget.
Residents who wish to speak during the Budget Committee hearing must submit a written request no later than 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 5. Requests should be mailed or delivered to the Smith County Finance Department, 122 Turner High Circle, Suite 100, Carthage, TN 37030. Envelopes should be marked “Attention: Public Hearing.”
Following the Budget Committee hearing, the Smith County Commission will hold a second public hearing at 6 p.m. concerning a proposed 45-cent property tax levy increase. Immediately after the hearing, the Commission will conduct a special called meeting to consider adoption of the FY27 budget and any associated funding adjustments and resolutions.
According to the public notice, the proposed tax increase was submitted by the Budget Committee for public notice purposes without a positive recommendation. The full Commission is responsible for determining the final budget and any related funding actions.
Citizens wishing to speak during the Commission’s public hearing are asked to sign in with the chairman at least 15 minutes before the hearing begins. Each speaker will be allotted up to three minutes to address the Commission.
Both hearings are open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend and share their comments on the proposed budget and tax levy.
Photographers Invited to Enter Best Tennessee Wildlife and Nature Photos
Tennessee Wildlife Federation’s 12th annual Wildlife and Nature Photo Contest is open for submissions August 1-31, 2026.
The contest invites photographers of all skill levels to share their best images of Tennessee’s wildlife, landscapes, and people enjoying the outdoors. From breathtaking mountain vistas and quiet moments on the water to striking wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures with family and friends, the Federation wants to see what inspires you about the Volunteer State’s natural beauty.
Photos can be submitted at tnwf.org/photo-contest.
Photographers may submit up to three photos with a $10 suggested donation or enter unlimited photos for a $25 donation. As a thank-you, photographers who donate $25 will receive a 2027 Tennessee Wildlife Federation calendar. All donations directly support the Federation’s work to conserve Tennessee’s wildlife, waters, and wild places.
Prizes will be awarded for outstanding photos of wildlife, landscapes, and people enjoying Tennessee’s natural spaces, with prize support provided by Bass Pro Shops stores of Tennessee.
A panel of judges will select standout entries for inclusion in the Federation’s 2027 calendar and to be featured across its digital platforms, which reach hundreds of thousands of outdoor enthusiasts each year. The public will also help select a People’s Choice winner through online voting beginning September 8, 2026.
The deadline to submit photos is 11:59 p.m. CT on August 31, 2026. For complete contest guidelines and to enter your photos, visit tnwf.org/photo-contest.
About Tennessee Wildlife Federation
Tennessee Wildlife Federation leads the conservation, sound management and wise use of Tennessee’s great outdoors. Since 1946, the Federation has spearheaded the development of the state’s wildlife policy, advanced landmark legislation on air and water quality and other conservation initiatives, helped restore numerous species, and introduced thousands of kids to the great outdoors. To learn more, visit tnwf.org.
Food for Thought – Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) week in Tennessee
August 3rd-7th is Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) week in Tennessee! FCS consists of four knowledge areas: Community Health, Consumer Economics, Human Development, Nutrition, and Food Safety. Smith County Extension offers programs in each area from Babysitting R.O.C.K.S. Day Camps, On My Own Simulations, Canning Colleges, and Drums Alive. FCS has a program that can benefit infants all the way to older adults.
To celebrate FCS week come visit the Extension office each day to learn more about what FCS has to offer.
- Mindful Monday: Children can create anger catchers at the extension office from 3:00-4:00 pm. This type of learning activity helps children with self-management. This game will help children learn different kinds of techniques that can be used when they feel upset and angry.
- Tasty Tuesday: Youth can stop by the extension office from 3:00-4:00 pm and create a fruit and yogurt parfait. This hands-on demonstration will teach children basic culinary skills while making a nutritious and delicious summer snack.
- Wellness Wednesday: FCS has many partners that help make our programs thrive. Learn more about our health and wellness partners through a partner scavenger hunt. Participants will start at the extension office at 2:00 to hear the rules and directions. The winner of the scavenger hunt will when a basket valued at over $200. Thank you to our wonderful sponsors for donating prizes from: Teresa’s Gifts, Lissa’s Nutrition, Stephanie McCaleb Interiors, Rokabilly Coffee, Acapulco Grill, Sav-Way, Smith County Health Department, Smith County Senior Center, Smith County Fitness Center and Highpoint Health-Riverview with Ascension Saint Thomas.
- Thoughtful Thursday: The community is invited to stop by the extension office for a game of Financial Bingo from 3:00-4:00.
- Family Friday: Stop by the extension office from 3:00-4:00 to get your family’s picture. The first 10 families that stop by will get a take-home popcorn bucket for an at home movie night. Be sure to follow https://www.facebook.com/UTExtensionSmith for tips on each of the FCS knowledge areas throughout FCS week and programs offered throughout the year!
Apple Dumplings
2 Granny Smith Apples (peeled, cored and quartered)
1 stick butter
8 oz refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla
Cinnamon
Wrap one apple piece in each roll. Place in a large baking dish. Set aside. In a saucepan bring butter, sugar and orange juice to a boil. Remove from heat and add vanilla. Pour over rolls. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Spoon liquid over rolls and serve warm. Submitted by: Gale Burns, Carthage FCE Club
Smith County Rest Area on I40 Closed for Repairs til Mid August
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will temporarily close the Interstate 40 Welcome Center in Smith County beginning this week as crews conduct necessary sewer line repairs.
The Smith County Welcome Center, located at mile marker 267, will be fully closed for approximately three weeks. The reopening is tentatively scheduled for Monday, August 17, depending on the progress of the repair work.
Motorists traveling along I-40 will be alerted to the closure through advance signage in the area.
During the closure, the next available eastbound Interstate 40 rest area is located in Cumberland County at mile marker 324.4. The nearest westbound rest area is located in Benton County at mile marker 130.
A complete list of Tennessee Welcome Centers and Rest Areas is available through TDOT’s Welcome Center & Rest Areas webpage, as well as the TDOT SmartWay Map.
Smith County Celebrates National Health Center Week 2026 National Campaign Highlights Innovative Community-Based Care as Upper Cumberland Region Health Departments Celebrate 50 Years as Federally Qualified Health Centers
The Smith County Community Health Center/Health Department celebrates National Health Center Week Aug. 2-8. National Health Center Week celebrates America’s Community Health Centers and their longstanding commitment to providing high-quality, affordable, and accessible health care to millions of people nationwide.
The Upper Cumberland Region is home to 15 community health centers and health departments. This year, the Smith County Community Health Center/Health Department proudly celebrates 50 years of serving our community.
These health centers provide primary medical and dental care services to anyone with private insurance, TennCare or Medicare as well as those without insurance. They are part of nationwide network of health centers that serve more than 52 million people nationwide.
This year’s theme, Building Innovative Care Where It Matters Most, celebrates how CHC’s use creativity and commitment to advance innovative solutions that meet patients where they are an improve primary care delivery, access, and outcomes nationwide.
To learn more about the services of your local community health center, please call 615-735-0242.
Smith County Celebrates National Health Center Week 2026
Carthage, Tenn. – The Smith County Community Health Center/Health Department celebrates National Health Center Week Aug. 2-8. National Health Center Week celebrates America’s Community Health Centers and their longstanding commitment to providing high-quality, affordable, and accessible health care to millions of people nationwide.
The Upper Cumberland Region is home to 15 community health centers and health departments. This year, the Smith County Community Health Center/Health Department proudly celebrates 50 years of serving our community.
These health centers provide primary medical and dental care services to anyone with private insurance, TennCare or Medicare as well as those without insurance. They are part of nationwide network of health centers that serve more than 52 million people nationwide.
This year’s theme, Building Innovative Care Where It Matters Most, celebrates how CHC’s use creativity and commitment to advance innovative solutions that meet patients where they are an improve primary care delivery, access, and outcomes nationwide.
To learn more about the services of your local community health center, please call 615-735-0242.
Forks River Fire Department to Host Community Appreciation Day on August 1
The Forks River Fire Department is inviting residents to join them for their annual Community Appreciation Day on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Forks River Fire Hall.
This year’s event will be held a little earlier than usual and will feature several new additions for the community to enjoy. Attendees will be treated to a free meal catered by Little Creek BBQ, including hamburgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, and drinks.
Families are encouraged to bring the kids to explore the department’s fire trucks and check out its new brush truck. Firefighters will be on hand to visit with community members and showcase the equipment they use to serve the area. Weather permitting, a bounce house will also be available for children.
The event is the department’s way of thanking the community for its continued support while providing an opportunity for residents to meet the firefighters who proudly serve District II.
Those wishing to support the department are welcome to make a donation if they choose. Donations may be mailed to:
Forks River Fire Department
P.O. Box 114
Elmwood, TN 38560
The Forks River Fire Department expressed its appreciation for the community’s support and remains committed to providing professional emergency services whenever they are needed.
Mark your calendars and come enjoy an afternoon of great food, family fun, and community fellowship on August 1 at the Forks River Fire Hall.
Lisa Harville Selected for the Charline Hamilton Powell Outstanding 4-H Volunteer Award
The 2026 recipient of the Charline Hamilton Powell Outstanding 4-H Volunteer Award is Lisa Harville of Smith County. This award is presented to an outstanding volunteer leader who has served as a 4-H volunteer leader for five or more years.
Lisa was presented with this award at the 103rd Annual State 4-H Roundup and All-Star Conference Awards Banquet held at UT Martin on the evening of Wednesday, July 22, 2026. During the awards ceremony, Lisa was recognized on stage with an engraved plaque, sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Kant of Blount County.
As a recipient of this award, Lisa will accompany the Tennessee 4-H delegation to National 4-H Congress in Atlanta this fall
Lisa has a servant’s heart and embodies what it means to pledge her hands to larger service through the volunteer work that she does at the local, regional, and state level for Tennessee 4-H.
Lisa is a cheerleader and an advocate for 4-H in the local community, encouraging youth and parents alike to become more engaged and involved. She is quick to credit 4-H involvement for her children’s (Grace and Gabe) success.
Beyond being an incredible 4-H parent and program volunteer, Lisa is always willing to step up and serve in roles where she can use her knowledge, experience, and innovative ideas to contribute to the success of the Smith County Extension Office and Tennessee Extension as a whole. Lisa has been an active member of the Smith County Ag Committee, Smith County 4-H Advisory Committee, 4-H VOLS State Committee, 4-H Strategic Plan Committee for Volunteerism, Smith County FCE County Council, and the UT-TSU Extension Advisory Council for FCS. Lisa also frequently pursues leadership trainings and attends conferences to improve herself and learn all that she can.
Lisa provides support to 4-H’ers, professionals, and other volunteers as well, often serving as an encouraging voice that makes everyone feel appreciated. Her passion, poise, sincerity, and willingness to lend a hand is evident in everything that she does, and there is no doubt that Smith County and Tennessee 4-H is better thanks to her involvement and influence.
Congratulations, Lisa!
submitted by Rachel Petty – Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development
Memory Café Offers Support, Connection for Caregivers and Families in Carthage
A new opportunity for support and encouragement is available in Carthage through Memory Café, a monthly gathering designed for individuals caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Held on the fourth Thursday of each month from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the Memory Café meets at The Pavilion Senior Living Carthage, 130 Lebanon Highway, Carthage. The program provides a safe and supportive environment where caregivers can connect with others who understand the challenges they face.
To make attending easier for caregivers, care will be provided for their loved ones during the meeting, allowing participants to fully engage in the support group without worry. Each monthly gathering also includes a complimentary light lunch, creating an inviting atmosphere for conversation and fellowship.
Whether you are new to caregiving or have been caring for a loved one for years, the Memory Café welcomes everyone seeking support, encouragement, and practical resources.
Defeated Creek Marina to Host Flea Market & Craft Fair on August 8
Shoppers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to spend a fun-filled day at Defeated Creek Marina as the Defeated Creek Marina Flea Market & Craft Fair returns on Saturday, August 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The event, held at 160 Marina Lane in Carthage, will feature a wide variety of local vendors, delicious food, live entertainment, and activities for children, making it a great destination for the entire family.
Visitors can browse booths offering everything from handmade crafts, soaps, baked goods, fresh eggs, antiques, collectibles, clothing, permanent jewelry, tie-dye apparel, candles, home décor, crochet items, Scentsy products, Tupperware, sublimation items, freeze-dried candy, and boutique merchandise. Yard sale vendors will also be on site, giving shoppers plenty of opportunities to discover unique treasures and one-of-a-kind bargains.
Several popular food vendors will be serving throughout the day, including Old School Dogs, Piper’s Choice Lemonade, Chef Don’s Mobile Eatery, Farmhouse Teas, and other local favorites.
Children will have plenty to enjoy as well, with bounce houses, face painting, and a petting zoo providing entertainment throughout the event.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Nettie & The Delta Boy will perform live music, offering a soundtrack of entertainment while visitors shop and explore the marina. Mark your calendars for the Saturday, August 8th event at Defeated Creek Marina, 160 Marina Lane in Carthage.
Soccer Registration Set for August at Smith County Chamber of Commerce
Another exciting season on the soccer field will begin soon. Fall soccer registration will be held on Tuesday, August 4th and Monday, Aug. 10, at the Smith County Chamber of Commerce.
Registration will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on both dates, giving parents and guardians two opportunities to sign up their children for the upcoming fall season.
The registration sessions are designed to help families complete the enrollment process, ask questions, and ensure young athletes are ready for the start of league play. Parents are encouraged not to wait until the last minute to get your child registered for the Fall Soccer season.
For additional information about fall soccer registration or other community events, contact the Smith County Chamber of Commerce or Smith County Drug Center.
Free Back-to-School Haircuts Event Planned at Smith County Ag Center
As families prepare for the upcoming school year, a special community event will help students head back to class looking and feeling their best.
Free Back to School Haircuts will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Smith County Ag Center, located at 159 Ag Center Lane in South Carthage.
The event will bring together some of the best barbers and stylists from across Middle Tennessee to provide free haircuts for students before the first day of school. Organizers hope the event will ease the financial burden on families while giving children the confidence that comes with a fresh haircut.
Arrive early if you plan to participate, as a large turnout is expected. The event offers an opportunity for local professionals to give back while ensuring students are ready to start the new school year with confidence.
Citizens Bank Backs Local Youth in National Wildlife Competition
Citizens Bank of Carthage, TN, is proud to announce its official sponsorship of the UT 4-H Youth Development program as they prepare for the upcoming National Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) Competition. Smith County 4-H Agent Rachel Petty accepted the sponsorship on behalf of the program. Citizens Bank Senior Vice President Anthony Apple presented the contribution.
This support will directly assist local youth participants as they test their skills and knowledge in wildlife management and habitat evaluation on a national stage. Citizens Bank wishes the absolute best of luck to all the dedicated 4-H participants representing Smith County!
Smith County 4-H Members Prepare to Compete in National Envirothon Contest in Starkville, Mississippi
From July 19-25, 2026, the National Conservation Foundation, in partnership with the Mississippi Soil and Water Conservation Commission, will host the NCF-Envirothon at Mississippi State University. The NCF-Envirothon is an international environmental and natural resources academic competition for high school students.
“We are excited for the opportunity to bring together 43 teams from 41 states and 2 provinces in North America. This competition allows students and future conservation leaders to connect and learn in a unique way,” said Jeremy Peters, NCF executive director.
The winning Tennessee Envirothon team for 2026 is the Smith County 4-H team consisting of five members: Turner Harville, Tana Harville, Easton Bibbings, Emmy Bibbings, and Owen Meeks.
The theme of this year’s competition, “Non-point Source Pollution: It Begins at Home,” reflects Mississippi’s strong tie to water resources. During the competition, students will be challenged to consider how their everyday actions impact water quality, ecosystems and community health.
The event will kick off with the opening ceremony on Sunday, July 19, at 7 p.m. Throughout the week, students will learn through hands-on activities, demonstrations and team collaboration.
“Envirothon allows students to have hands-on experience with the environment and be able to interact in a way that’s different than just in a classroom. We get to do tests and explore real-world applications for what we’re learning. It also allows us to connect with other peers, from around our state to across the world. It is a very unique experience and one that I really value,” shared Rachell Austin, a Utah Envirothon alum.
The event will culminate with the awards ceremony on Friday, July 24, at 7 p.m. During this ceremony, the top teams will be recognized for their accomplishments. Again this year, the top three team announcements and oral presentations will be livestreamed on the NCF-Envirothon YouTube channel.
The 2026 competition is supported by a generous group of sponsors, including the Mississippi Soil and Water Conservation Commission, Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Mississippi Association of Conservation Districts, Mississippi State University, Amazon, Canon U.S.A. and others.
The 2026 Tennessee competition began with 97 teams competing in seven regional competitions across the state, followed by a state event held May 5 & 6 in Crossville. At that time, the Smith County 4-H team competed against nine other winning and high scoring teams from the seven regions and emerged the overall winner.
The Tennessee competition is coordinated by the Tennessee Resource Conservation and Development council along with seven regional RC&D Councils across the state. The Smith County 4-H Team competed in the Hull York Lakeland RC&D Council’s regional event. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture, the Tennessee Farm Bureau, and Soil & Water Conservation Districts across the state make the competition possible with their sponsorships.
The NCF-Envirothon team is excited to welcome all students, advisors, guests and volunteers to this year’s competition. For more information and how to get involved, visit 2026 NCF-Envirothon Mississippi.
Best of luck to our Smith County 4-H competitors!
