Home / Environment / Georgia Eyes Major Species Protection Boost
Georgia Eyes Major Species Protection Boost
1 Sep
Summary
- Georgia's protected species list may grow by 105 species.
- Public comment period for changes runs until Sept. 20, 2026.
- Updates align state listings with federal endangered species lists.
State wildlife officials in Georgia are seeking public feedback on substantial proposed changes to the state's protected species list. This initiative marks the first major revision to the conservation catalog in two decades.
The public comment period commenced on August 28, 2026, and will conclude on September 20, 2026. The proposed amendments would expand the total number of protected species from 318 to 423, encompassing increases across plants, invertebrates, fishes, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals.
Key revisions include adding and removing species, updating scientific nomenclature, and aligning Georgia's conservation statuses with federal endangered species listings. An exception is proposed to permit the sale of certain protected plant species if they are cultivated in captivity with proper documentation.
Public input is deemed crucial for the development and implementation of these state regulations. The proposed updates are informed by technical team reviews for the 2025 revision of Georgia's State Wildlife Action Plan and public nominations submitted in June 2026.
A public hearing is scheduled for September 8, 2026, at 7 p.m. at the Wildlife Resources Division Headquarters in Social Circle. The state Board of Natural Resources is expected to vote on the amendments during its October 27 meeting in Atlanta.
