A new fundraiser and exhibit races to the Tennessee Aquarium
Alison Pryor with the Tennessee Aquarium joins News 12’s Amelia Greer to talk about a new 5k raising money for research and rescue efforts. ‘Laurel Dace Day’ on May 17 is raising awareness for an endangered local species.
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – For the first time ever, the Tennessee Aquarium is hosting their first 5K run called “Race to Save the Laurel Dace” where families can participate with proceeds going toward research of a critically endangered species in the Tennessee Valley.
Laurel Dace is a small minnow that is one of the top 10 endangered freshwater fish in North America. The fish is only found in two streams near Walden’s Ridge outside of Spring City which have recently dried out due to past droughts. With the Tennessee Aquarium’s efforts, they are now able to rescue the Laurel Dace and care for them at the conservation center. Now, the fish have been released and are currently being monitored by Tennessee Aquarium scientists.
To help fund the research to keep the species safe and continue flourishing, the Tennessee Aquarium is hosting their first ever fundraiser 5K and Family Fun Run on May 17th called “Race to Save the Laurel Dace” in Spring City. For runners, they can compete in a 5K run at 8 A.M. For families or those who just want to walk, they can enjoy the half mile Family Fun Run at 9 A.M. The event will have a farmers marker with plenty of vendors, craftsmen, artisans, and live music.
In addition to their Laurel Dace conservation, the aquarium is introducing a new exhibit of “living rocks” which are also known as freshwater mussels. There are over 70 species of freshwater mussels in Tennessee, and the aquarium aims to show off the importance of the shellfish. Mussels are crucial to our water system as they help filter and clean our water naturally. The new exhibit will be in the River Journey building, right across from the sturgeon touch tank.
To learn more about the 5K Race to Save the Laurel Dace and all the new exhibits, visit the Tennessee Aquarium website.
