DNR Proposes Updates To Georgia Protected Species List

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is proposing updates to the state’s protected species list for the first time since 2006.

The list includes plant and animal species protected under Georgia’s Endangered Wildlife Act and Wildflower Preservation Act. These are species considered most in need of conservation across the state.

State listing makes it illegal to intentionally harm protected animals. It also restricts removing protected plants from state land without a permit, or from private land without the landowner’s permission.

DNR says the proposed updates include adding and removing species, updating scientific names, and aligning some state listings with federal status.

The agency says the changes were developed as part of the 2025 revision of Georgia’s State Wildlife Action Plan.

The public may also nominate species for consideration through June 30, 2026, using the online nomination form provided by DNR.

Final proposed changes will be made available for public comment before being sent to the Board of Natural Resources for adoption.

Habitat Coosa Valley Breaks Ground On 62nd Home

Habitat for Humanity Coosa Valley has broken ground on its 62nd home, which will be built for the Cornejo family.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held Sunday, May 31, at the future home site on Brown Street in East Rome. Habitat officials say the project marks an important step toward providing the family with safe, affordable housing and long-term stability.

Executive Director Betsy Allgood said the home represents more than walls and a roof, calling it a foundation for stability, opportunity, and hope.

Habitat homes are built through partnerships involving volunteers, donors, community organizations, and the future homeowners themselves.

Habitat for Humanity Coosa Valley serves Floyd, Chattooga, and Polk counties. More information about volunteer opportunities or ways to support the organization is available at habitatcoosavalley.org.

 

Chamber To Host Member AfterWork Meet Up At Dos Magueys

The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is inviting local business leaders and community members to attend its upcoming Member AfterWork Meet Up on Thursday, June 11.

The networking event will be held from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Dos Magueys Mexican Restaurant in Summerville.

According to the Chamber, the gathering is designed as a casual social and networking opportunity for members to connect, share ideas, and build relationships in a relaxed setting. Dos Magueys will offer drink specials, and the Chamber will provide appetizers for attendees.

The Chamber noted that it will not hold a June luncheon this year and is instead offering this smaller summer networking event. While tickets are not required, organizers encourage attendees to RSVP in advance.

For additional information, contact the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce at 706-857-4033

City of Summerville Hiring For Multiple Positions

The City of Summerville is accepting applications for several open positions in city government.

Current openings include Customer Service Representative, Gas Maintenance Worker, Building Inspector, Police Officer, and Water Sewer Maintenance Worker. The positions include roles in administration, public safety, and city utilities.

City officials say they are looking for dedicated, hard-working applicants interested in a stable career serving the local community.

The jobs are listed as open until filled and offer competitive pay, benefits, retirement options, paid time off, and a team-oriented work environment.

Anyone interested in can contact the City of Summerville for more information about the current openings and application process, or visit www.summervillega.org

WZQZ Pet of the Week: Meet Thunder

Looking for a loyal companion with a gentle personality? Meet Thunder, this week’s featured pet from the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.

Thunder is a male dog who is described as loving, calm, and very laid back. Shelter staff say he gets along well with other dogs and would make a wonderful addition to a family looking for a friendly, easygoing pet.

Thunder is available for adoption now through the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, located at 464 Red Oak Drive in Summerville.

The adoption fee is just $25.

For more information about Thunder or other pets available for adoption, call the shelter at 706-857-0679.

Lyerly Family Starting Over After Sunday Night House Fire

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A Chattooga County family is starting over after a fire destroyed their Lyerly home Sunday night, leaving them with only the clothes they were wearing when they escaped.

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Arrest Report – Tuesday – June 2, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, June 2, 2026:

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Cooler Air Set To Deliver Rare Early June Break From Heat

After weeks of warm, humid conditions, a refreshing change is arriving across northwest Georgia this week.

A backdoor cold front moving south into the region will bring noticeably cooler temperatures and lower humidity, creating conditions that will feel more like spring than the first week of meteorological summer. Before the cooler air fully settles in, however, a few isolated thunderstorms could develop Tuesday afternoon and evening.

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Donations Needed For Trion And Chattooga Back To School Bash

Organizers are asking for community support as preparations continue for the annual Back to School Bash for Trion and Chattooga students.

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Chattooga River Fest Returns To Trion June 13

The Chattooga River Group will host its 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Trion Recreation Area in Trion. The event will run from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and is free for the public to attend.

Presented by the Family Crisis Center, the festival celebrates the Chattooga River and outdoor recreation while offering a full day of family-friendly activities, entertainment, food, and educational opportunities.

Festival highlights include a free family-friendly kayak paddle on the river, a free KidZone, an open mic stage, a cornhole tournament, educational demonstrations and talks, exhibitors, and a variety of festival food vendors. Visitors will also have opportunities to purchase kayak raffle tickets and event merchandise at the Chattooga River Group tent.

Live music will cap off the day as The Band Chickamauga takes the stage from 4 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

The event will be held at the Trion Recreation Area, located at the corner of Park Avenue and Dalton Street. Those using GPS should use 90 Dalton Street, Trion, GA 30753. Organizers say both parking and admission are free.

Registration and fees are required for those wishing to participate in the cornhole tournament or as festival vendors.

Additional information is available at ChattoogaRiverGroup.org and on the Chattooga River Group Facebook page.