Cheatham County resident, Christie Peterson Henderson, was recently named Land Conservationist of the Year at the Tennessee Wildlife Federation’s 53rd annual Conservation Achievement Awards luncheon.
The Federation’s annual ceremony was held in Nashville and recognized those whose contributions to wildlife and natural resource conservation deserve statewide appreciation. Awards were given in sixteen categories, to recipients selected by a statewide committee of natural resource conservation experts.
“Christie has endless positive energy,” said Tennessee environmentalist, George Lindemann. “She is passionate about conservation and a pleasure to work with. Congratulations, and keep up the good work!”
Mrs. Peterson Henderson is the Director of Land Conservation for Tennessee Parks & Greenways Foundation (TennGreen), the oldest accredited, statewide land trust dedicated to the protection of Tennessee’s natural treasures. Since she began in May 2012, Mrs. Peterson Henderson has secured more than $3.26 million in grants to conserve some of Tennessee’s most important natural areas and iconic features. She has directed the protection of more than 14,000 acres, including the creation or expansion of five state/municipal parks, two state natural areas, and eight wildlife management areas (WMA).
“Christie is top notch—a personable, knowledgeable, and highly competent conservation professional,” said Shain Dennison of Nashville Metro Parks and Recreation. “Metro Parks has enjoyed working with her on several Nashville land protection projects and appreciates her carefulness and sensitivity in working with often complicated local government processes. Congrats on well-deserved recognition!”
In 2017 alone, Mrs. Peterson Henderson helped protect more than 4,200 acres of pristine land for habitat enhancements, public access, and/or conservation easements. She is currently leading more than eleven projects in 9 counties, all of which are expected to close within the next two years.
“Christie’s multi-disciplinary expertise, passion for conserving the best of Tennessee, and unwavering commitment to protecting the land that sustains us all is a tribute to her character, professionalism, and leadership," said TennGreen Executive Director, Steve Law. "She is an environmental champion now and will continue being a conservation leader far into the future. We are all so proud of her.”
About Tennessee Parks & Greenways Foundation
Tennessee Parks & Greenways Foundation (TennGreen) is an accomplished, nonprofit land trust dedicated to protecting and conserving Tennessee’s natural treasures. Founded in 1998, it is the oldest accredited, statewide land trust in Tennessee. Through collaboration with members, private landowners, local municipalities, and state and federal agencies, TennGreen works to create parks, establish wildlife corridors, expand existing protected public lands, and enhance public recreation opportunities. To learn more, visit www.tenngreen.org
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 led 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 www.tnwf.org.