River Ridge Farm - East TN

River Ridge Farm – East TN

Part of the 25 Projects for 25 Years series.

River Ridge Farm, nestled along over 2,000 feet of Tennessee River frontage, has been in Dave Waters’ family since the 1960s. This historic 152-acre farm, adjacent to Washington Ferry—a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places—holds deep roots in Tennessee’s history and landscape. The farm not only conserves the historic context of this important ferry site but also safeguards the scenic beauty for those crossing the Highway 30 bridge between Rhea and Meigs Counties. Additionally, the farm’s woodlands extend vital habitats for local wildlife, nestled within proximity to four Wildlife Management Areas.

Dave Waters and his wife, Verlinda, have spent years raising grass-fed beef on River Ridge Farm, selling their products at markets in Knoxville and Chattanooga. Their dedication to sustainable farming practices and conservation is evident in their work and the loyal customer base they’ve built. Many of these customers, along with friends, contributed to the farm’s protection, helping raise the necessary funds for the Farm and Ranchland Protection Program. Significant support also came from organizations like the Lyndhurst Foundation, Benwood Foundation, and the Tennessee Tobacco Board.

Dave Waters grew up on a different family farm, started by his great-grandfather in 1873, but he’s always felt a deep connection to the land that’s now part of the Land Trust. His parents purchased the River Ridge property in the 1960s (which is adjacent to the original family farm), and Dave recalls building fences and clearing saplings with his brother while their father, who always held an off-farm job, helped out whenever possible. “I grew up farming and loved it. Even after serving 21 years in the Army, I was ready to come back to the farm and continue working hard,” Dave shared. Reflecting on the transition, Dave added, “It was refreshing to get back to nature, to get my hands dirty on the farm. I was ready for a change, so I started a second career in farming.”

Dave’s connection to the farm grew even stronger when his family encountered health challenges. As his wife, Verlinda, faced similar health issues to those his father had experienced, they shifted their focus toward environmental stewardship, healthier living, and reducing their use of chemicals like Roundup. The impact was immediate and encouraging; wildlife, including eagles, began to return to the farm.

In 2011, Dave and Verlinda made the decision to protect their 152-acre farm through a conservation easement with The Land Trust for Tennessee. “Too many farms are divided, sold off, or turned into subdivisions,” Dave reflected. “We didn’t want that to happen here.” The conservation agreement not only protected the farm from development but also allowed the Waters to sign up for funding through the USDA to maintain farmland. This ultimately allowed them to purchase an adjacent 150-acre farm that was about to be sold to a developer, further expanding their commitment to sustainable agriculture.

Dave hopes to pass the farm on to the next generation, although he acknowledges that it’s uncertain whether his children or grandchildren will want to work on the land like he does. “I hope one of my granddaughters might have an interest in coming back to farm,” he said. “But until they’re ready to decide, I’ll keep working to keep the farm sustainable and regenerative.”

For Dave, land conservation is not just about protecting his own property—it’s about setting an example for others in Meigs County and beyond. “I hope our farm can be a symbol for others to consider conservation easements,” he said. “The Land Trust for Tennessee is there to help when people are ready. It’s important work, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Dave emphasized the critical role The Land Trust plays in conserving Tennessee’s landscapes. “The Land Trust is made up of professionals who have a passion for conservation,” he said. “They’re there to help, whether you have land to protect or resources to contribute to the conservation movement.”

Reflecting on the changes in Meigs County, Dave remains optimistic about the future. “Meigs County is beautiful—we’ve got trees, hills, ridges, and the river. I’ve lived in many places, and North America is all beautiful. But we grew up here, and we love it.”

Through his work with The Land Trust for Tennessee, Dave Waters continues to protect the land he loves, ensuring that River Ridge Farm remains protected for generations to come.

Support The Land Trust for Tennessee’s conservation work.