A protest at the Chattooga County Courthouse is scheduled this Saturday in support of a Trion High School student who was arrested after an accident in Walker County and subsequently detained by federal immigration authorities.
Walker County animal welfare leaders are celebrating what they describe as a major step forward for animals in the community.
The Walker County Board of Commissioners has approved a new spay and neuter ordinance following nearly two years of meetings, revisions, and ongoing discussion.
According to the Walker County Animal Shelter, the ordinance is designed to help address pet overpopulation and encourage responsible pet ownership. The measure applies to pet owners who are found in violation of animal-related offenses, requiring them to have their pet spayed or neutered or pay a fee. That fee is expected to be finalized at an upcoming commissioners meeting.
The ordinance includes exemptions for hunting dogs, working dogs, livestock guardian animals, licensed breeders, and pets with medical exemptions certified by a licensed veterinarian.
Shelter officials say animal welfare efforts often face significant challenges, including overpopulation, hoarding cases, cruelty investigations, and limited resources. Despite those challenges, they say the new ordinance represents meaningful progress for the county.
The Walker County Animal Shelter will continue offering its spay and neuter voucher program and hopes to expand resources available to pet owners in the future.
The Walker County Board of Commissioners is set to hold its regular monthly meeting Thursday, May 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Walker County Courthouse Annex in LaFayette.
Ongoing drought conditions across Georgia are creating challenges for farmers and livestock owners, with hay supplies tightening and prices climbing.
A celebration of culture, food, and community is happening today in Walker County.
The “Corners of the World” Multicultural Festival is taking place this morning from 9 AM to 1 PM at the LaFayette Farmers Market Pavilion on East Villanow Street.
Organizers say the event will transform the market into an international experience, featuring over 70 vendors, a global marketplace, and interactive cultural stations for all ages.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of international foods, along with live music ranging from Irish and blues to reggae.
Guests are also encouraged to dress in clothing that represents their culture or one they admire, adding to the celebration of diversity.
Organizers say it’s a great opportunity to experience cultures from around the world—right in the heart of downtown LaFayette.
Berry College is partnering with the Georgia Department of Corrections to expand access to higher education for incarcerated individuals, with a focus on rehabilitation, personal growth, and successful reentry.
Walker County has received a 2026 Georgia County Excellence Award from ACCG, Georgia’s County Association, for innovation in county government.
The county was recognized for its spay and neuter voucher initiative, a program designed to reduce unwanted litters and improve animal welfare across Walker County.
The program provides up to 40 free vouchers each month for companion animals. Each voucher is valued at $200 and covers spay or neuter services, microchipping, and a rabies vaccination.
During the first eight months, Walker County Animal Shelter staff issued about 190 vouchers, resulting in 61 female cats, 36 male cats, 44 female dogs, and 49 male dogs being altered.
County officials say the program is already making an impact. Compared to 2024, the shelter saw a 64% decrease in owner surrenders during September, October, and November. Surrenders of kitten and puppy litters dropped by nearly 80% during that same period.
The program is funded entirely through donations, and more than 500 people are currently on the waiting list for a voucher.
Walker County was one of six counties recognized statewide for programs that improve their communities.
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are waking up to rounds of showers and a few embedded thunderstorms early Thursday, but conditions are expected to steadily improve as the day goes on.
The LaFayette Farmers Market kicks off its 2026 season today with its annual Opening Day Market and Plant Sale at the Farmers Market Pavilion on East Villanow Street.
The event runs from 9 AM until 1 PM and features more than 70 local farmers, makers, and bakers offering fresh produce, plants, and handmade goods. Organizers say all items sold at the market are grown or made within 50 miles of LaFayette, supporting local farms and small businesses.
Visitors can also enjoy food, music, and family-friendly activities. A special “Kids Grow Here” area includes seed planting and a scavenger hunt to help children get excited about gardening and agriculture.
The opening day event marks the start of another season focused on local agriculture, small businesses, and community connection in Northwest Georgia.
















