The environment of Tennessee in the United States encompasses a wide array of ecosystems, from mountain forests and rich river valleys to wetlands and grasslands. Tennessee lies within the Southeast United States and is physically shaped by features including the Appalachian Mountains, the Cumberland Plateau, and the expansive river systems of the Mississippi River watershed. Its diverse landscapes support abundant wildlife, extensive forests, freshwater resources, and have drawn generations of residents and visitors alike.

Politically, Tennessee is broken up into three Grand Divisions: East, Middle, and West. Physically, Tennessee is also separated into three main types of landforms: river valley plain, highlands and basins, and mountains.

Geologically, Tennessee can be broadly divided into four major regions:

Tennessee’s rivers and streams, including the Duck River, Tennessee River, and Cumberland River, drain into the Mississippi River watershed, supporting rich biodiversity and contributing to the state’s agricultural productivity.

Coal, limestone, and other mineral resources are extracted across Tennessee, especially in the eastern mountains and central plateau regions.

Tennessee’s climate varies across the state, with the eastern mountains cooler and the western lowlands warmer and more humid.

Climate change in Tennessee has altered precipitation patterns, increased the frequency of droughts and extreme weather events, and affected terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.

More than 17,000 miles of Tennessee streams are impaired under the Clean Water Act, and many lakes face water quality challenges due to pollution and land use pressures.