Coastal Georgia
Conserving Coastal Georgia
Georgia’s coast stretches for 110 miles and features some of the nation’s most pristine beaches, remote salt marshes, and protected maritime forests.
A string of barrier islands, some only accessible by boat, remain largely untouched, offering a sanctuary for migrating birds and a home to a number of endangered or threatened species.
Protecting our coast has been a priority of the Georgia Conservancy for nearly 60 years. We maintain an office in historic downtown Savannah, headed by Coastal Director Courtney Reich, and are working on a range of projects to protect this precious natural resource.
Our Coastal Policy
A healthy, resilient and diverse coastal ecosystem that can endure natural and human disturbances, an economy that offers diverse options including healthy, sustainable nature-based businesses such as commercial fishing and recreation-based tourism, and responsible planning for growth and conservation of sensitive coastal lands. Learn more >>
Some of the current issues and projects on which we are focused:
Okefenokee Swamp Protection
Protect the wild heart of Georgia – the Okefenokee Swamp. A proposed mineral mine at the edge of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge threatens the future of the iconic Swamp.
South Atlantic Salt Marsh Initiative
The Georgia Conservancy is working to identify opportunities to protect and restore coastal marshland with historical, cultural, and/or spiritual significance to local communities.
Cumberland Island Stewardship
Cumberland Island National Seashore is a place of legend. Its tidal marshes, undeveloped beaches and dunes, and lush maritime forests make it one of America’s most unique, spectacular and memorable barrier islands and National Parks. Its protection remains one of the Georgia Conservancy’s top priorities.
North Atlantic Right Whale Protection
Georgia’s state marine mammal, the North Atlantic right whale, is the most endangered large whale species on Earth. As our coastal waters are home to the right whale’s calving grounds, Georgia Conservancy is leading efforts and developing strategies to revive the population of this majestic marine mammal.
Offshore Oil & Gas Exploration
The Georgia Conservancy is adamantly opposed to seismic testing and oil and gas drilling in Georgia’s offshore waters. It is not in the best interest of our state or our nation and the risks far outweigh the reward. We encourage our elected officials to acknowledge and accept the scientific and economic data that refutes the need for oil and gas exploration off of Georgia’s coast.
Blake Plateau
The Blake Plateau is a fascinating and ecologically-important region located approximately 80 miles off Georgia’s Atlantic coast, stretching from northern Florida to offshore waters near North Carolina. What makes this area particularly special is its deep-sea coral reef system, one of the largest known in U.S. waters and among the most expansive in the world.
If you have any questions about our Coastal Program or would like to learn more, please contact Georgia Conservancy Coastal Director Courtney Reich at creich@georgiaconservancy.org
Georgia Conservancy Coastal Posts
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