How PVC trees will help conservation at Watts Bar Reservoir

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Earlier this year, the Tennessee Valley Authority worked together with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to put together more than 1000 structures that the TVA called “sunken treasure.”

At first glance, the structures might resemble something used to scare off unwanted birds. The structures resemble large games of “Kerplunk,” but in reality, the TVA said the structures will be used to create long-lasting fish habitats in Watts Bar Reservoir.

The TVA explained that when the reservoir was made, there was quite a bit of timber for cover and habitat, but over time, that has decayed. Unlike other methods of creating habitats, the TVA said these tree-like structures will last underwater. The habitats are also made with a specialized PVC that doesn’t have a biocide film, meaning the blend of algae and invertebrates that fish eat will be able to grow.

“Though these new habitats aren’t exactly three-bedroom, two-bath rancher-style homes with appliances included, they certainly have a good view,” The TVA wrote.

The TVA shared that it purchased 1,100 MossBack artificial fish habitat structures, and one day this spring, TWRA staff and volunteers helped to assemble many of them. The structures came in three sizes, 20 inches, 40 inches and 60 inches tall, which will each be placed in water ranging from five to 20 feet deep, respectively.

The TVA added that some of the structures will be used as nursery habitats. All of the locations and types of new habitat structures will be marked on the TWRA’s GIS Maps , so those interested in finding a new not-quite-so-secret fishing spot can find the structures and fish on top of where the fish like to hide out.

Overall, the TWRA called the new structures a win-win-win: Fish find new homes, the TVA fulfills its mission of environmental stewardship, and there are more sites for the TWRA to go to each year.

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