Georgia is considering the first major update to its list of protected plants and animals in two decades, a move that could add 145 species whose populations are declining or facing significant threats.
Families and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to spend a day enjoying nature, wildlife and hands-on activities when Outdoor Adventure Day returns to James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park near Summerville.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the park, located at 2800 Sloppy Floyd Lake Road.
Organizers are planning a full lineup of activities for children and adults, including a Kids Fishing Rodeo featuring 50 tagged fish that can be caught for prizes.
Visitors will also have an opportunity to learn archery with instruction provided by park staff.
Wildlife will be a major part of the day’s activities. Southeastern Reptile Rescue is scheduled to present a snake show, while Greg’s Turtle Haven will bring a turtle show to the park. Wings to SOAR will also present a birds of prey program.
Families are encouraged to bring relatives and friends and spend the day exploring the activities at the park.
Food will be available for purchase from food trucks during the event. The Friends of Sloppy Floyd State Park will also have “Rodeo Catfish” T-shirts available for sale.
Parking is $10 per vehicle.
Outdoor Adventure Day provides families with an opportunity to enjoy one of Chattooga County’s most popular outdoor destinations while learning more about fishing, archery and wildlife.
Adventure seekers can experience James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park after dark during a special ranger-led “Creatures of the Night” hike on Saturday, July 11, at 9 p.m.
The guided hike will take participants along the Marble Mine Trail to discover the nocturnal animals that become active after the park closes. Rangers will explain how nighttime wildlife survives and adapts to the dark while hikers explore the trail under the evening sky.
The program costs $3 per person, and a $10 Georgia State Parks pass is required. Advance registration is also required.
Flashlights will be available, although participants are welcome to bring their own. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and meet in front of the park office by 9 p.m.
To register or for more information, call the park office at 706-857-0826.
Families looking for a fun outdoor adventure can explore the world of frogs and toads during a special ranger-led hike at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park next weekend.
The park will host “Ribbitting the Trails” on Saturday, July 11, at 10 a.m. Participants will hike the Marble Mine Trail while learning about the life cycle of local frogs and toads, what they eat, how they live, and the habitats where they’re most commonly found. Rangers say hikers may even get the opportunity to see some of the amphibians up close.
The cost is $3 per person, and a $10 Georgia State Parks pass is required. Advance registration is also required.
Participants should wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and meet in front of the park office by 10 a.m.
To register or for more information, call the park office at 706-857-0826.
Canada geese may be more noticeable around neighborhoods, parks, ponds, and other public spaces in Georgia over the next few weeks as the birds go through their summer molting season.
Georgia wildlife officials are warning residents about an invasive lizard species that is spreading across parts of the state and threatening native wildlife.
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.
Georgia’s 2026 turkey season is underway, and early outlooks suggest hunters could see improved opportunities in the woods this spring, according to Georgia Outdoor News.
A protest is planned TODAY (Sunday, January 11) at 2 p.m. at Dowdy Park in Summerville, organized in response to Mayor Rickey Hughes’ recent comments about removing beavers from local waterways.