Where Community Meets Conservation

Dear Wolf River Conservancy Friend,

Throughout the year, one of the most meaningful parts of our work at the Wolf River Conservancy is seeing people experience the Wolf River and the Wolf River Greenway in ways that are personal, memorable, and inspiring. Whether it is a student discovering the outdoors for the first time, a volunteer planting trees, a family walking the trail together, or hundreds of runners gathering for a community race, these moments remind us why our mission matters.

This year’s Discover the Greenway 5K+ was a powerful example of that mission in action. With more than 500 runners registered, the event brought together people from across the Memphis area to run entirely on the Wolf River Greenway. That makes this race truly unique in our community. Participants were not simply running a course; they were experiencing a world-class green space that connects neighborhoods, protects natural areas, and showcases the beauty of the Wolf River corridor.

Events like Discover the Greenway help us do more than bring people outdoors. They help us build lasting connections between people and places. Every runner, volunteer, sponsor, family member, and spectator who joined us became part of a larger story about conservation, community, and access to nature. When people experience the Greenway firsthand, they better understand why protecting and enhancing the Wolf River watershed is so important.

Community engagement has been central to our work throughout the year. From volunteer restoration events and educational programs to guided outings, public celebrations, and opportunities for people to explore the trail, the Conservancy continues to create meaningful ways for our community to connect with the green spaces around them. These experiences are especially important for young people. By helping the next generation see, touch, explore, and care for the natural world, we are helping build the next generation of conservationists.

At the Wolf River Conservancy, we believe that conservation is the strongest when it is shared. Protecting land, restoring habitats, planting trees, removing litter, and expanding access to green spaces are all essential parts of our work. But just as important is ensuring that people feel invited into that work and understand that these places belong to all of us.

Thank you to everyone who participated in Discover the Greenway 5K+, volunteered at an event, attended a program, supported our work, or simply spent time on the trail this year. Your engagement strengthens our mission and helps ensure that the Wolf River Greenway and the Wolf River watershed continue to serve our community for generations to come.

We look forward to seeing you on the Greenway soon!

Erik Houston

Executive Director

Wolf River Conservancy  

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