I know it may not be the favorite idea for this board, but there have been many discussions on the feasibility of changing the discharge temperature from a number of the big dams in the area so that it would be a more natural temperature regime in the tailwaters. This would be done to help out a number of endangered species that could otherwise live in the riverine sections of the lakes below the dams.
Obviously, it would eliminate the trout waters, but done right it may create some amazing smallmouth bass waters.
The costs of engineering, water supply, cooling water for downstream power plants and lost recreation (among other things) are all being balanced against this idea. Time will tell as to how the Cumberland River and its tributaries are actually managed, but there are many completing needs for the water and getting the maximum benefit for all at the lowest cost is the overall goal.
I don't think this will happen soon, but as the area changes over time, trade-offs will need to be made.
Jim
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