HARDEMAN COUNTY, TENN. (RFD News) — Tennessee’s bobwhite quail population has declined sharply over the past several decades, falling nearly 90 percent since the 1950s.
Researchers say there are multiple reasons for the quail’s disappearance, noting land development and changes in agricultural practices as prominent factors. Now, researchers are working to reverse that trend.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture’s Ames AgResearch and Education Center is partnering with Tall Timbers, a research station based in Florida, to restore habitat and bring wild quail back to the region. The effort focuses on rebuilding the type of environment quail need to survive, something experts say will take time and long-term commitment.
Alex Jackson with Tall Timbers says the work is achievable, but not quick.
“Trying to bring birds back here in the Mid-South, it’s 100% achievable, but it’s going to take time, it’s going to take money, it’s going to take effort, and it’s going to take commitment,” Jackson said.
Tall Timbers has already restored more than 100,000 acres of wild quail habitat across Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Texas, and the Carolinas.
Roger McEowen, with the Washburn School of Law, offers an in-depth look at two of the top legal issues of 202. Today, he walks through last year’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) ruling and “lawfare.”
January 27, 2026 02:53 PM
·
The West Carroll Parish Ag Expo represents more than farming — it is about the future of agriculture, where tradition meets innovation, and where the backbone of Northeast Louisiana continues to thrive.
January 27, 2026 12:31 PM
·
Auction manager and West Texas A&M University student Presley Graves joined us to discuss the growth of StockShowAuctions.com and its impact on youth in agriculture.
January 27, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Mike Knotts with the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association joined us with the latest on storm impacts, power restoration, and safety considerations following the ice storm.
January 26, 2026 04:00 PM
·
Brooks York with AgriSompo joined us with his outlook on crop insurance and risk management following the recent winter storm that tore through most of the United States, including the Midwest.
January 26, 2026 03:30 PM
·
Meat stocks rose seasonally but remain below last year overall, while tighter butter inventories could support dairy prices, and belly stocks warrant close watch for pork markets.
January 26, 2026 03:00 PM
·