
Georgia DNR Sergeant Ben Cunningham, who supervised Game Wardens serving Chattooga County and other parts of Northwest Georgia, died suddenly Thursday following a possible medical episode while on duty in Rome.

Georgia DNR Sergeant Ben Cunningham, who supervised Game Wardens serving Chattooga County and other parts of Northwest Georgia, died suddenly Thursday following a possible medical episode while on duty in Rome.

Private landowners and others interested in forestry, wildlife habitat and prescribed burning are invited to a free land-management meeting at Berry College on Monday, October 19.

High school students interested in conservation, agriculture, wildlife, forestry, soil, water, or Georgia’s mining industry are being encouraged to apply for the Natural Resources Conservation Workshop.
The weeklong program will be held June 7-12, 2026, at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton. Students will get hands-on experience through field studies, outdoor activities, and behind-the-scenes tours focused on Georgia’s natural resources.
More than $20,000 in scholarships and awards will be available. Students will also get a taste of college life by staying in dorms and meeting others from across the state.
The workshop is free, and transportation is provided through Georgia’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
Interested high school students can apply by contacting Director Michelle Conner at michelle.conner@gaswcc.ga.gov.

State Senator Lanny Thomas of Trion has been appointed to serve on several key Georgia Senate committees, giving Northwest Georgia a voice in major policy areas.

Forest landowners across Northwest Georgia will have a chance to gain practical, hands-on advice for managing and improving their property during a free field day set for Tuesday, April 7, in Summerville.

Georgians now have a new way to support the state’s parks and historic landmarks by purchasing a specialty license plate for vehicles or trailers. The new tag is available through the state’s online e-services portal at renewal time for $80 the first year and $55 each year after that, while those who want the plate before renewal can visit their local county tag office and pay the difference in fees.
Money raised from the new specialty tag will directly benefit the State Parks and Historic Sites Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Those funds will help protect, manage, and maintain Georgia’s natural, historical, and cultural resources while also supporting public enjoyment, recreation, and educational opportunities across the state.
State officials say the new plate gives residents a simple way to show pride in Georgia’s outdoor and historic treasures while helping preserve them for future generations. More information is available through the Georgia Department of Revenue.