Leadership
The Root Nashville campaign is a first-of-its kind public-private partnership in Nashville. The campaign is led by the Cumberland River Compact, which leads the day-to-day operations of the campaign, and Metro Nashville. Metro Water Services is the lead campaign partner from Metro.
Cumberland River Compact
“All Nashvillians will reap the many benefits that come from planting trees, including safer, more prosperous neighborhoods, cleaner air and water, energy savings, greater resilience to flooding and extreme heat, and improved mental and physical health.”
— Mekayle Houghton, Executive Director, Cumberland River Compact
Trees and water are a match made in the shade. The Cumberland River Compact’s mission is to enhance the health and enjoyment of the Cumberland River and its tributaries through education, collaboration, and action. Trees fit into this equation because they strengthen stream banks, prevent soil erosion, clean water, beautify our city, and so much more. The Cumberland River Compact has a long history of tree planting in the Cumberland River Basin.
Metro Water Services
“Trees provide environmental, social, and economic benefits. Planting trees is one of the most cost-effective ways to decrease flooding and promote cleaner waterways; therefore, trees are a critical strategy in Nashville’s stormwater management. This is why Metro Water Services is fully committed to our partnership in the Root Nashville campaign.”
— Scott Potter, Director, Metro Water Services
What’s one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to mitigate stormwater runoff? Planting trees, of course. Metro Water Services provides water, wastewater, and stormwater services to over 250,000 residents. Their mission? To supply, treat, manage, and protect our water resources in a sustainable manner for the benefit of all who live, work, and play in our community.
Advisory Board
The campaign is guided by an Advisory Board, which consists of partner organizations that contribute expertise and support to Root Nashville, and expand its impact. NashvilleHealth leads this group as chair of the Advisory Board.
NashvilleHealth, chair
Cumberland River Compact, operational partner
Metro Water Services, lead Metro partner
Mayor’s Office
Hands On Nashville
Metro Public Health Department
The Nature Conservancy in Tennessee
Nashville Tree Conservation Corps
Nashville Tree Foundation
Urban Land Institute
