Get ready to lace up your sneakers for a cause that’s making waves! The Tennessee Aquarium is hosting its first-ever Race to Save the Laurel Dace. This is a 5K fundraiser and family fun run/walk to support conservation efforts for one of North America’s most endangered freshwater fish — the Laurel Dace.
Found only in two streams near Walden Ridge, north of Chattanooga, the Laurel Dace has seen a drastic population decline due to drought and habitat loss. The Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute, along with federal partners, has been working tirelessly to rescue and protect this delicate species — and now the community has a chance to join the effort.
Find event details below:
- When: Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Where: Spring City Nature Park, Spring City, TN
- Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Activities:
- 5K Race
- Half-Mile Family Fun Run/Walk
- Virtual race option for remote supporters
- Live music, vendors, a farmers market, and more!
All proceeds will go toward research, rescue care, and building a sustainable “ark population” of the Laurel Dace in case of future environmental threats.
“This is a species that lives right in our own backyard, and it’s a reminder that conservation isn’t just a global issue — it starts right here at home,” says Allison Pryor of the Tennessee Aquarium.
For more information, visit tnaqua.org. Once on the site, scroll to the “Events” section and click on Laurel Dace Day.
Also, If you’re headed to the Tennessee Aquarium soon, don’t miss the new freshwater mussels exhibit in the Ridges to Rivers Gallery. These “living rocks” play a huge role in water filtration and stream health — and they’re way more fascinating than they look!
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