
Elementary students across Georgia are being encouraged to put their artistic talents to work while learning more about the state’s wildlife.

Elementary students across Georgia are being encouraged to put their artistic talents to work while learning more about the state’s wildlife.

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.

Governor Brian Kemp has officially proclaimed August 2026 as Shooting Sports Month in Georgia, recognizing the state’s long-standing hunting traditions, recreational shooting opportunities, and the economic impact of the industry. The proclamation encourages Georgians of all experience levels to safely enjoy shooting sports throughout the month.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division is encouraging residents to visit one of the state’s more than 45 public archery and shooting ranges, many of which are located on Wildlife Management Areas and Public Fishing Areas. The agency also promotes firearm safety training and responsible participation in shooting sports.
According to DNR, Georgia’s shooting sports and hunting industry contributed an estimated $2.7 billion to the state’s economy in 2024 and supports nearly 11,000 jobs. In addition, Georgia received more than $19.2 million in federal wildlife conservation funding in 2025 through the Pittman-Robertson Act, which is funded by excise taxes on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment. Those funds help support wildlife management, habitat conservation, hunter education, and public shooting ranges across the state.
The proclamation highlights the role hunters and shooting sports enthusiasts play in conservation while encouraging safe, responsible firearm ownership and recreation throughout the month of August.

Georgia’s bald eagle population continues to thrive, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ annual nesting survey, which found nesting success well above long-term averages despite surveying fewer areas than usual this year.

Georgia wildlife officials are asking residents to be on the lookout for a large invasive lizard that poses a threat to native wildlife.

Georgia hunters are preparing for the start of spring turkey season, with the statewide opener on private land set for Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Teachers and students across Georgia are being encouraged to spotlight the state’s wildlife through creativity by entering the 36th annual Give Wildlife a Chance Poster Contest, open to grades K-5.