Kristin Hopkins, the facility coordinator for Murfreesboro’s Natural Resources Department, is stepping into a new and exciting role with the Southeastern Grasslands Institute, leaving behind a legacy of transformative work. Her efforts in Murfreesboro have elevated the city’s natural spaces and fostered a culture of collaboration and environmental stewardship within our community.
Every now and then, someone truly remarkable comes along—someone whose passion and determination ripple through a community, making it stronger and more connected. Kristin is one of those rare individuals. Her relentless drive to overcome challenges and improve the city’s parks and natural spaces has left an enduring impact.
During her time with the city, Kristin spearheaded numerous initiatives that will shape the community for years to come. From launching a program to restore the city’s native plant population (the Murfreesboro Indigenous Plant Project, or “MIPP”), to addressing the litter problem at Murfree Spring (the Osprey litter boom), introducing an adult educational chapter of the Tennessee Naturalist Program to the Wilderness Station, creating youth-focused initiatives such as the Youth LED Program and establishing a formal volunteer structure for Outdoor Murfreesboro, Kristin consistently turned ideas into improvements.
Kristin’s leadership was rooted in teambuilding and encouragement, inspiring action and progress in those around her.
“Kristin empowers her team members to build on their strengths and figure out how they can best contribute to the success of a project or initiative,” says Lauren May, natural resource assistant program coordinator.
One of Kristin’s most notable accomplishments was tackling the litter issue at Murfree Spring. Despite facing constant complaints and criticism, Kristin researched solutions, built alliances and secured departmental support. Her efforts culminated in the successful installation of the Osprey litter boom.
“At the launch event, surrounded by community partners, I was amazed at what she had accomplished—so humbly and behind the scenes,” recalls Volunteer Program Coordinator Jo VerMulm. The Osprey litter boom is a floating device designed to catch and collect litter and debris in waterways before it spreads downstream. Strategically placed at Murfree Spring, it prevents trash from accumulating in sensitive natural areas, making cleanup efforts more efficient and helping to protect the local ecosystem. With successful data collected from the litter boom at Murfree Spring, it is a huge step in the right direction in mitigating the litter issue in the natural areas and waterways citywide.
Kristin’s colleagues consistently highlight not just her many accomplishments but her character.
“Kristin’s passion for Murfreesboro’s natural areas and native plant communities will be evident for years to come along our streams, in our parks, and in those she shared her knowledge and dedication,” says Stormwater Manager Josh Upham.
VerMulm adds, “I’ll miss her no-nonsense approach, her humor, and her ability to build partnerships. While I’m sad she’s leaving, I know her work with SGI will continue to benefit our parks.”
Rachel Singer, assistant director of Parks and Recreation, says that Hopkins worked to make sure that local development did not come at the expense of our wild areas, and that she was “always advocating for thoughtful conservation efforts that will allow the land to continue to thrive.”
As Kristin moves on to the Southeastern Grasslands Institute, her legacy in Murfreesboro is clear. Her ability to lead with conviction, tackle challenges head-on, and inspire both her team and the community has transformed the city’s approach to conservation. The improvements in Murfreesboro’s natural spaces stand as a testament to her hard work, and her impact will continue to shape the community for years to come.
