Over the next month, more than 50 archery teams and close to 1,000 students in grades 4-12 will compete at one of five 2012 National Archery in the Schools Program-GA Regional Tournaments.

The new 2012 Georgia Sport Fishing Regulations are now available.  The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently distributed printed versions of the regulations to all Division offices and facilities, a number of State Parks and fishing license retailers statewide.  An online version of the new regulations already is available at www.georgiawildlife.com/fishing/regulations . 

The new Georgia Outdoor Recreation Pass has been in effect a few days, and will help with much-needed maintenance on state wildlife areas. 

The fun and educational 24-hour birdathon returns April 27-28. Registration is open now!

Commercial shad fishermen will head out to the water beginning at 6 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 1, 2012 through midnight on Thursday, Mar. 31, 2012 to take advantage of the shad season, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). 

Stop by the Go Fish Education Center’s gift shop and reel in a 10 percent discount on your purchases just by saying “Go Fish!” at the cash register on Friday, Dec. 23.  

One of the world’s rarest marine mammals is returning to Georgia’s coast. A North Atlantic right whale was seen off South Carolina on Nov. 22, the first of a watery winter migration to the endangered whales' calving and nursing grounds along Georgia, South Carolina and northeastern Florida.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division selected RFC Tim Butler, a conservation ranger for Pulaski/Bleckley counties, as the 2011 State Ranger of the Year.  

Grampus. Lasagna lizard. Snot otter. Hellbenders may have more unflattering nicknames than a cross-county football rival, but these big salamanders with the jelly-slick skin are attracting some positive, and needed, conservation attention.

A new access pass, called the Georgia Outdoor Recreation Pass (GORP), will be required for visitors to some wildlife areas beginning Jan. 1, 2012, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division. Those that potentially will need the pass include hikers, birders, cavers, cyclists and other non-traditional user groups of wildlife management areas, public fishing areas and some natural areas.

Georgia is once again home to a high ranking champion elementary school archery team after this month’s National Archery in the Schools Program World Tournament, held at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. In addition, Shelby Goodrich, of Woodlawn Elementary School in Chatsworth, came out as the top 4^th grader in the competition. 

Fishing and leaf-viewing opportunities combined – what a great way to combine fun fall activities! The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division has five delayed harvest streams available to anglers beginning Nov. 1.

Each year, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division recognizes anglers for outstanding and state record catches. Anglers who catch new state records or those who catch a fish that meets or beats a specific weight or length limit for that species (angler award) are eligible for recognition.

Saturday, Oct. 22, the opening day of firearms season for deer hunting, also is Turn In Poachers (TIP) Day in Georgia, according to a proclamation signed by Gov. Nathan Deal.

For the 2010-2011 hunting season, Georgia reported 44 hunting incidents, 22 of which involved firearms. With the upcoming Oct. 22 opening of firearms deer hunting season, review the ‘Four Primary Rules of Firearms Safety’ before heading to the woods.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, WIldlife Resources Division recently selected Sgt. Tim Kendrick of the Macon Law Enforcement office as the 2011 Supervisor of the Year.

Anticipating thousands of users each year, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the City of Augusta today dedicated the Robert Baurle Boat Ramp, giving boaters and anglers improved access to the river.

In celebration of the passion for the outdoors that you share with 64 million other Americans, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division encourages you to get out and participate in one of the many FREE celebrations that will be held in honor of the 2011 National Hunting and Fishing day. Governor Nathan Deal recently signed a proclamation in honor of the conservation efforts led by America’s hunters and anglers, recognizing Saturday, Sept. 24 as NHF Day in Georgia, noting the plans underway for a statewide celebration. 

Anticipating thousands of users each year, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Effingham County dedicated the Tuckasee King Boat Ramp and Landing, giving boaters and anglers improved access to the Savannah River.

Since 1993, hunters have been bringing meat to the tables of those in need through the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program. Through this successful program, hunters have donated enough venison to serve more than 1.5 million meals. This year, hunters are asked to give a portion of their processed deer through the “Drop-Back-a-Pack” campaign at one of 12 participating processors through Jan. 15, 2012.

For everyone from naturalists to novices, Georgia DNR offers many opportunities to experience the benefits of the outdoors. Those options include seven regional education centers operated by DNR's Wildlife Resources Division and partner agencies across the state.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division reminds all deer hunters, including big game license holders, honorary and lifetime license holders, hunters under 16 years of age and landowners, to obtain a new deer harvest record for the upcoming season.

The Board of Natural Resources recently approved the 2011-2012 waterfowl hunting regulations. 

While the school year has begun and many Georgians are now back in a different routine, a holiday weekend is always expected to bring people to the water to celebrate. This Labor Day weekend will surely be no exception, so the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division stresses the importance of safety for all boat drivers and passengers.

No one wants to think about what could go wrong when they are out for a day of fun and celebration. However, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, it may be necessary when talking about safety on the water. 

A popular shooting range at Hannahatchee Wildlife Management Area, located near Richland in Stewart County, will temporarily close to make some needed repairs, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division. Repair work includes renovating the range to increase the height of the berms at the rifle range due to safety concerns.

Hunter education courses in Georgia are offered three ways: by classroom, CD-Rom or online.

The Migratory Bird Hunting license (or HIP permit) requires all hunters pursuing doves, ducks, geese, rails and other migratory bird species to complete an annual harvest survey. The free license is available online, by phone or at retail license agents across the state, and requires hunters to report harvest rates.

Plans for Oaky Woods WMA include restoring and expanding the area's Atlantic Coastal Plain chalk prairies, a globally rare habitat.

The beginning of squirrel season is just around the corner, are you ready? Often revered as a celebrated American fall tradition, squirrel hunting provides the perfect opportunity to introduce youth or a novice to the sport of hunting. Unlike some big game hunts, the pursuit of bushytails often involves more action for energetic youth, providing a greater level of interaction with the outdoors.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division (CRD) is currently conducting a telephone survey of Georgia lifetime license holders. This survey will run from August 4 – August 9, 2011 for the purpose of verifying contact information that will be used for future surveys to determine marine angler effort. Approximately 1,500 Georgia lifetime license holders will be surveyed at this time to verify the accuracy of their contact data. For more information call CRD at 912-264-7218.

Visiting one of Georgia’s Public Fishing Areas (PFAs) with the family is a great in-state way to entertain both the kids and adults this summer.  Beginning on August 1, 2011, nine PFAs will have new days of operation, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division. 

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) recently promoted Eddie Henderson to the position of Colonel, Chief of Law Enforcement for the Division. Henderson fills the vacancy after Col. Homer Bryson was promoted to become Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources. 

Whether it is a “roughing it” summer tent camping trip or a comfy stay at a cabin in the woods, there’s always a possibility for a black bear sighting or encounter in North Georgia. With more than 75 established campgrounds and an estimated 5,100 black bears in the State, campers should always be aware and prepared for a black bear encounter. The key to preventing an unfavorable experience is to properly store food and garbage.

A new archery range at Rock Hawk in Putnam County is now available for archers, bow hunters, youth groups and others interested in perfecting their target skills.

Taking the family to a Georgia beach? Please be ready to share it with families of a different feather – beach-nesting birds.

Some brown pelicans rescued from the Gulf oil spill last summer and released in Georgia not only returned to the state this spring, they are nesting and raising young here.

The Board of Natural Resources recently approved proposed changes to hunting regulations for the 2011-2013 hunting seasons and adopted proposed rules for the Georgia Outdoor Recreation Pass.

You can win prizes, for fishing….yes, fishing! Register for the 2^nd Georgia Bobberthon fishing tournament and you could find yourself winning some fun prizes. Bobberthon is a tournament at which registered anglers have approximately two months to catch tagged bream in any of four public fishing area lakes. The angler then must register their tag(s). These first few steps guarantee a reward – but then even more prizes are available at the Grand Bobberthon Tournament!

How can you make family memories that will last a lifetime? For many anglers, fond childhood memories involve a family fishing trip and a stringer of bream. So, don’t delay – take them fishing today! Where to go? Visit a nearby public fishing area.

It’s too hot! It doesn’t look cool. I know how to swim. Nothing is going to happen to me. These are just some of the many reasons people claim that they do not wear their life jackets. But with approximately 500 people drowning nationwide each year from recreational boating accidents, it is imperative to push the message of “Wear It!”- wear your life jacket at all times while you are on the water. 

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources reminds boaters under the age of 16 that there is a minimum age requirement to operate a boat or personal watercraft (PWC) on public lakes and waterways. Young boaters can satisfy the minimum age requirements of this law by taking a boating safety course or by operating a boat under the supervision or in the accompaniment of an adult. The DNR encourages adults to NEVER leave young children unattended on vessels.

Quick boating safety quiz: Is it okay to jump the wake of another boat when you are less than 100 feet away or to use your personal watercraft to splash someone sitting on a dock?

Georgia is home to the first place elementary school archery team in the country after this month’s National Archery in the Schools Program National Tournament. Woodlawn Elementary’s finish is the highest ever by a Georgia school competing at NASP Nationals, which saw more than 7,000 student archers from nearly 300 schools and 34 states compete in the elementary, middle and high school divisions. The tournament is the largest archery competition in the world. In addition to Woodlawn Elementary, ten additional Georgia schools had students competing at this event.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently honored RFC Tim Butler with the Rocky Wainwright Waterfowl Officer of the Year Award for his outstanding efforts regarding waterfowl conservation over the past year.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division will hold a public meeting on May 24, 2011 to gather public input and discuss management decisions for the bass fishery on Lake Allatoona. 

Georgia’s rare animals and plants are profiled in a new lineup of species accounts at www.georgiawildlife.com. The 400-plus updated and expanded accounts detail the identification, habitat use, distribution, ecology and conservation of Georgia’s protected species, plus selected rare species considered at risk but not officially protected.

Boaters and anglers that frequent the Morgan Falls Dam portion of the Chattahoochee River near Sandy Springs should expect to see construction for replacement of the existing boat ramp beginning today, Mon. May 9, 2011. The new ramp should be completed in early June.

Add bear-proof the garbage to your spring cleaning list and feel good about taking the first step in resolving human-bear conflicts. Easily accessible garbage is irresistible to a hungry black bear and unfortunately, a major threat to its survival. By bear-proofing your garbage, you’ll not only keep your yard tidy, but more importantly, you’ll add years to the lives of some of Georgia’s magnificent wild black bears.

Looking for a way for the whole family to enjoy the outdoors this spring? Come to Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center’s JAKES Day Saturday, May 14! This fun-filled event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center’s (CEWC) Discovery Area in Mansfield. Sponsors for the JAKES Day include the Georgia Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).

Loggerhead sea turtles will soon start crawling onto Georgia’s barrier island beaches to nest. One ambitious leatherback sea turtle already has.

Conservation, birds and about 100 young Georgia birders all benefited from the 2011 Youth Birding Competition. The 24-hour birding event held April 16-17 drew some 25 teams of contestants from preschool-ages to teens. They spotted scores of bird species and raised nearly $1,500 for conservation organizations.

Designed with everything outdoors in mind, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division’s summer archery camps aim to educate and engage adventurous youth. Registration is now open for several camps, some beginning as early as May!

Chalk up another solid nesting year for bald eagles in Georgia. DNR aerial surveys documented 142 occupied nesting territories, 111 successful nests and 175 young fledged.

ATHENS, Ga. (April 4, 2011) - Twelve elementary school children have been named statewide winners in the Give Wildlife a Chance Poster Contest, the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division and The State Botanical Garden of Georgia announced today.

Concern for wildlife, especially young animals, is simply human nature. Most people who come across a deer fawn, a young bird or a newborn rabbit that is alone will initially watch in amazement and then sometimes wonder if the animal is in need of help. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division encourages residents to resist the urge to ‘rescue’ these animals.

The public will now have “More Places To Hunt” on Dawson Forest WMA thanks to efforts by governmental agencies, sportsmen’s organizations and a private landowner. A previously closed road that limited access has recently been re-opened on the WMA, just in time for the opening of Turkey season – March 26.  

Does your child’s school have programs that add both diversity and interest to the classroom and “engage the unengaged” student? The National Archery in the Schools Program is a program that can help accomplish this objective. 

It is time for pre-season trout stocking and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plan to stock more than one million trout in Georgia streams, rivers and small lakes by the end of the year. Many streams will be stocked by the end of the month and in time for opening day for seasonal trout stream fishing – Sat., March 26th.

Georgia’s rare animals and plants need your help. 

Successful hunting trips require a combination of skill, patience and most importantly, preparation. As turkey season rapidly approaches, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division encourages preparation first, hoping that hunters will brush up on important turkey hunting safety tips before hitting the woods.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently selected Dennis Ellis as the 2010 Volunteer Hunter Education Instructor of the Year. This award is presented annually in recognition of an instructor who displays outstanding volunteer efforts in educating sportsmen and women on wildlife conservation and the importance of safety while hunting.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently awarded more than 25 anglers with a 2010 angler award for reeling in an outstanding catch (or catches!) last year. The angler award program recognizes those who catch fish that meet or exceed a specific weight or length for that particular species. 

Challenge-hungry anglers should visit the state’s major reservoirs now for cold weather striped bass action. This time of year, five to 15-pounders are common, with the occasional thrill of a 30-pound or greater catch. 

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division is one of four states recently recognized by the American Fisheries Society’s Fisheries Administrator’s Section for their efforts to provide the public with quality fishing opportunities and aquatic education programs. Other state agencies recognized include the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. 

More than 30 schools and almost 800 student archers competed at the recent Georgia-NASP State Tournament. That is almost double the number of participants at last year’s event!

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently selected Alex Coley as the new Assistant Chief for the Game Management Section. He fills the position left vacant by Rusty Garrison, who recently assumed duties overseeing the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center. 

Gov. Nathan Deal recently recognized Georgia Power and Plum Creek as 2010 partners in Georgia DNR's Forestry for Wildlife Partnership, a voluntary program that promotes blending wildlife conservation into corporate forestry practices.

The Georgia Capitol is going to get a little taste of the wild this Tuesday as sportsmen’s groups from around the state gather to meet with legislators for the annual “Sportsmen’s Day at the Capitol.” 

The numbers of birds and birders have been on the rise since the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division joined with The Environmental Resources Network Inc. and other partners to begin the Youth Birding Competition.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Board passed a resolution today supporting the investigation of the recent killing of three whooping cranes in Calhoun County, Ga.   Members of the Georgia DNR Board and the Georgia DNR Foundation also are contributing an additional $4,800 to the reward fund. This addition brings the total reward fund amount to$20,800.

Scientists from NOAA Fisheries Service and its partners, including Georgia DNR, successfully used at-sea chemical sedation to help cut the remaining ropes from a young North Atlantic right whale on Jan. 15 off Cape Canaveral, Fla. This marked the second time a free-swimming whale has been successfully sedated to enable disentanglement efforts.

After three years, dozens of trips to the field, hundreds of hours in front of the computer and at least 20 collaborative meetings, a simple idea that grew into a full-blown multi-agency project is approaching the finish line.  

The new 2011 Georgia Sport Fishing Regulations are now available. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently distributed printed versions of the regulations to all Division offices and facilities, a number of State Parks and fishing license retailers statewide. An online version of the new regulations already is available at www.gofishgeorgia.com.

Click to view a copy of the Report of the Land Management Steering Committee.  Input welcome at any of eight (8) upcoming public meetings.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division will hold eight public meetings across the state to accept public input for consideration in the development of hunting regulations for the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 hunting seasons. Public input is an important and valuable part of this process. The Department is interested in input that seeks to simplify regulations and encourage the recruitment of young hunters and retention of existing hunters.

SPECIAL NOTICE: Crockford Pigeon Mountain WMA is CLOSED to all but hunters NOW through Saturday (Dec. 11) for a deer firearms hunt.  ATVs prohibited, horse, bicycle, caving, hiking, rock climbing, parasailing and hang-gliding trails and areas are closed all day during this hunt.

Commercial shad season runs from 6 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 1 2011 through midnight on Thursday, Mar. 31, 2011, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). Commercial shad fishermen need to be aware that fishing regulations have significantly changed since the 2010 season.

Sarah Barlow had a problem: a deep knowledge and interest in frogs and toads,  but no place to apply that knowledge. The answer: the North American Amphibian Monitoring Program, an international study investigating the distribution and relative abundance of amphibians across the continent. NAAMP depends on frog-savvy volunteers who monitor local listening routes. Barlow took part earlier this year. But Georgia could use more skilled volunteers in 2011, said John Jensen, state NAAMP coordinator and a DNR wildlife biologist.

Since 1993, hunters have been bringing meat to the tables of those in need through the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program. This successful program continues to provide opportunities during hunting season for hunters to share their harvest with those in need. Currently, hunters can donate deer at 14 participating deer processors through Jan. 15. Additionally, two sites will be available this weekend (Nov. 20th-21st). 

After weeks of scorching weather, cooler temperatures are a welcome sign to wildlife biologist Shan Cammack of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. When fall arrives, Cammack knows it is only a matter of time before she laces up her fire boots and buttons up the Nomex.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division announces the recentappointment of Ted Will as the new Assistant Fisheries Management Section chief.  He fills the position left vacant by Michael Spencer who took the position of License and Boat Registration Unit Supervisor.  Ted Will previously served as Region Supervisor for the West Georgia region.

Georgia has a diversity of bass that continues to reel in anglers from across the nation. As the only state in the nation with six of the seven black bass species, Georgia stands out as a bass angler’s paradise. This fall, regardless of where you are in the state, bass fishing opportunities abound, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division is providing anglers with some helpful bass fishing information.

The tailwaters of Blue Ridge Reservoir, a 15-mile trout fishery on the Toccoa River, is a favorite fishing spot for many anglers, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division.

Anglers who frequent the Morgan Falls Dam portion of the Chattahoochee River should be excited to learn about the construction of a new fishing pier, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.

The Georgia Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation recently honored RFC James McLaughlin with the "Officer of the Year" award, announces the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. RFC McLaughlin, a conservation ranger assigned to Telfair County, now also is eligible to receive the national award from the NWTF.

With an estimated 50,000 deer-car collisions annually in Georgia, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division advises motorists across the state to be extra cautious of increased deer and wildlife sightings this fall season. 

Prohibiting chronic wasting disease from entering Georgia is an ongoing effort. Anyone interested in wildlife – hunters, wildlife watchers and processors, among others – are encouraged to help keep Georgia’s quality deer herd CWD-free.

It is finally that time of the year again for Georgia hunters. Firearms deer season opens Saturday, Oct. 16 and lasts through Jan. 1, 2011 in the Northern Zone and in the Southern Zone, through Jan. 15, 2011.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division recently selected Capt. Doug Lewis of the Brunswick Law Enforcement office as the 2010 Supervisor of the Year. 

Since 1993, hunters have been bringing meat to the tables of those in need through the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program. This successful program celebrated serving its one-millionth meal in 2007 and continues to provide opportunities during hunting season for hunters to share their harvest with those in need. Currently, hunters can donate deer at fifteen participating processors through Jan. 15.

Though commonly used by deer hunters everywhere, tree stands often are improperly installed and as a result, are considered the leading cause of hunting-related incidents.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division reminds all deer hunters, including big game license holders, honorary and lifetime license holders, hunters under 16 years of age and landowners, to obtain a new deer harvest record for the upcoming season.

In celebration of the passion for the outdoors that you share with 64 million other Americans, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division encourages you to get out and participate in one of the many FREE celebrations that will be held in honor of the 2010 National Hunting and Fishing day.  Governor Sonny Perdue recently signed a proclamation in honor of the conservation efforts led by America’s hunters and anglers, recognizing Saturday, Sept. 25 as NHF Day in Georgia, noting the plans underway for a statewide celebration.  

One year in, a multistate project including Georgia has made excellent progress increasing the quality, quantity and connectivity of prime sandhill habitat.

The window of opportunity is closing for those interested in applying for a quota deer hunt on select public land and at select State Parks.  If you want a chance to hunt, you need to be sure to get your online quota application in before midnight September 1.    A total of 35 quota deer hunts on public land and six State Park quota deer hunts are scheduled.

The end of summer doesn’t have to mean the end of fun in the great outdoors.  As Labor Day approaches, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages families to get outdoors over the holiday weekend and continue enjoying outdoor activities into the fall.

Georgians curious about the differences between legitimate dove field preparation and illegal baiting should read  “Dove Hunting and Agricultural Practices in Georgia,” available at www.gohuntgeorgia.com .

Hunters statewide can celebrate the beginning of dove season at noon Saturday, Sept. 4. Long-awaited opening day is traditionally considered the beginning of the fall hunting season, and with the numerous wildlife management area hunts scheduled, it is the perfect opportunity to introduce children and grandchildren to the sport. 

 Whether still, stalk or squirrel dog hunting is your preference, the beginning of squirrel season is just around the corner. Often revered as a celebrated American fall tradition, squirrel hunting provides the perfect opportunity to introduce youth or a novice to the sport of hunting. Unlike some big game hunts, the pursuit of bushytails often involves more action for energetic youth, providing a greater level of interaction with the outdoors. 

With more than 350 nesting pairs, Wilson’s plovers in Georgia are doing much better than 10 years ago, according to a survey led by the state Department of Natural Resources

The National Wild Turkey Federation joined with 14 other conservation organizations of the Georgia Bobwhite Technical Team, by recently signing a Memorandum of Agreement committing to the recovery of bobwhite quail and other early successional habitat dependent species, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division. More than four million acres of habitat must be enhanced across Georgia’s landscape to achieve Northern Bobwhite Conservation Initiative (NBCI) recovery goals.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has finalized a response plan to help combat a disease that is killing bats and spreading toward Georgia.

 Anticipating more than 10,000 users each year, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources opened a new megaramp on July 13, 2010 at Tugaloo State Park on Lake Hartwell, giving boaters and anglers greater access to the lake. 

Drought in the mountains the past two summers dried up much up the suitable habitat for bog turtles, but thanks to wet weather, increased trapping and improved management efforts, 2010 is looking like a record season for the smallest of Georgia’s protected turtles.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources have teamed up to take a closer look at northern yellow bats.

 As expected, the upcoming Fourth of July holiday weekend is sure to be a busy one on Georgia’s lakes and waterways, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division. Conservation Rangers with the Department will do their best to ensure the safety of everyone on the water and boaters are strongly encouraged to remain alert and aware at all times.  

BOBBERTHON is a regional fishing tournament scheduled for July-September 2010.    FISHING. FUN. COMPETITION. PRIZES. Find out more here!

 Designed with everything outdoors in mind, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division’s 3-day archery camp aims to educate and engage adventurous youth. Registration is now open for the camp in Covington, which is scheduled for July 5-7, 2010 at the Georgia Wildlife Federation (11600 Hazelbrand Road) in Covington, Georgia.

Whether it is a “roughing it” summer tent camping trip or a comfy stay at a cabin in the woods, there’s always a possibility for a black bear sighting or encounter in North Georgia. With more than 75 established campgrounds and an estimated 4,000 black bears in this part of the State, campers should always be aware and prepared for a black bear encounter. The key to preventing an unfavorable experience is to properly store food and garbage.

The Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division recently honored RFC Rodney Horne with the Rocky Wainwright Waterfowl Officer of the Year Award for his outstanding efforts regarding waterfowl conservation over the past year.

A birding “big day” in May promises to pay big for nongame wildlife in Georgia.

Georgia is home to the third best elementary school archery team in the country after this month’s National Archery in the Schools Program National Tournament.

For each of the past eight years, the number of applicants wishing to participate in an alligator quota hunt grew. Beginning this year, 850 applicants will be selected to participate – an increase of 150 permits – in the 2010 alligator hunting season which runs Sept. 4-Oct. 3. 

On Memorial Day weekend one thing is certain, thousands of boaters and anglers will be out enjoying the holiday on state waters, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Last year there were 158 boating accidents and 13 boating incident related fatalities in Georgia, and conservation rangers made 177 boating under the influence arrests.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources and TEAM Georgia, a safe and sober driving and boating coalition, are reminding people to refrain from drinking alcohol while operating a boat or personal watercraft (PWC).

Governor Sonny Perdue recently signed a proclamation stating May 22-28, 2010 as Georgia Safe Boating Week.

Ohoopee Dunes Natural Area in Emanuel County has long been considered a biodiversity hotspot by biologists. Now, a new grant will help others see it the same way.

On Friday, May 21, 2010 conservation rangers with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, along with representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will be on hand at the Gwinnett Braves game to answer any and all boating-related questions – safety, laws, regulations, tips and advice. Be sure to stop by the main entrance while you are at the ball field and stay safe on the water this year!

Designed with everything outdoors in mind, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division’s 3-day archery camp aims to educate and engage adventurous youth. Registration is now open for the camp, which is scheduled for June 1-3, 2010 at Laura S. Walker State Park in Waycross, Georgia.

Wildlife Forever is proud to announce the winners of the 2010 StateFish Art Contest.

How can you make family memories that will last a lifetime? For many anglers, fond childhood memories involve a family fishing trip and a stringer of bream. So, don’t delay – take them fishing today! Where to go? Visit a nearby public fishing area.

Georgia is the only state in the nation where anglers can target six of the seven species of black bass. The most sought after, the largemouth bass, is just one among the state’s black bass population, including smallmouth, spotted, shoal, redeye (or Coosa) and Suwannee.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division is considering changes relating to the marketing of recreational opportunities on lands owned and managed by the Department. These changes may include: charging fees at DNR-managed properties and facilities, classification of DNR-managed properties, and diversifying recreational opportunities on DNR-managed properties.  (Click here for more information)

High among the branches of pines in southeast Georgia, the lifeless eyes of strategically placed swallow-tailed kite decoys stare at the world, eyeing platforms for artificial nests that biologists hope will soon lure the state-listed kites.

A black bear sighting, even somewhere like metro Atlanta, is not altogether unusual, especially during the Georgia springtime. That’s because during the spring and summer, young male bears that are “on their own” for the first time may be found roaming and sometimes stumbling into non-traditional bear range, including suburbs and urbanized areas.

Project with Department of Juvenile Justice helps conserve resources and clean up southwest Georgia natural area.

Saturday’s rains did not dampen the spirit or skill of about 130 children and teens who took part in the 2010 Youth Birding Competition.

Concern for ‘orphaned’ wildlife is simply human nature. Most people who come across a deer fawn, a young bird or a newborn rabbit will initially watch in amazement and then immediately wonder if the animal is in need of help. Probably not, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division encourages residents to resist the urge to ‘rescue’ these animals.

Do you fish for American or hickory shad? If so, please plan to attend a meeting at Holton's Restaurant in Midway, Georgia at 6:00 pm on Thursday, April 29, 2010. Staff from the Coastal Resources Division (CRD) and Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will present information about recent activities of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) and how those activities will affect management of Georgia's shad fisheries.

Twelve elementary school children have been selected as statewide winners in the Give Wildlife a Chance Poster Contest, the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division has announced.

Two granite outcrop pools at Oconee Wildlife Management Area are bearing new life, and renewed scrutiny. Researchers recently planted four plugs of the federally endangered mat-forming quillwort in rainwater pools at the WMA’s Eatonton Outcrop.

TheCanada goose is an adaptable bird and can live in a variety of locations, including open farmland and rural reservoirs to suburban neighborhood ponds, office complexes, parks and other developed areas. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, as the goose population increases and they become more common in urban areas so does the increase in nuisance complaints.

Add color and wildlife to your backyard with help from the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division and The Environmental Resources Network.

It is time for pre-season trout stocking and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plan to stock more than one million trout in Georgia streams, rivers and small lakes by the end of the year. Many streams will be stocked by the end of the month and in time for opening day for seasonal trout stream fishing – Sat., March 27.

Fire on the Mountain! – the annual celebration of an ongoing effort to conserve areas of rare montane longleaf pine habitat through the use of prescribed fire at Sprewell Bluff Outdoor Recreation Area near Thomaston- was rained out on March 13 and has been cancelled for the year due to inclement weather. Please check our web site for updates about next year’s event.

What may have begun for a Georgia alligator as a day of sunning on the banks of the marsh ended with the approximately 5-foot long reptile nearly 20 miles out to sea, drifting in an area usually roamed by right whales, sea turtles and other marine life.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently awarded 32 anglers with a 2009 angler award for reeling in an outstanding catch (or catches!) last year. The angler award program recognizes those who catch fish that meet or exceed a specific weight for that particular species. 

The brief Georgia winter provides a great opportunity to get excellent results for crappie fishing, and several reservoirs across the state offer rewards for anglers willing to brave the bitter cold temperatures.

Turkey hunters across the state are practicing their yelps and clucks in preparation for the upcoming turkey season. Opening day is Sat., Mar. 20 and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division anticipates that the 2010 season should be good, and harvest levels should be similar in comparison to the past several years.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently selected George “Rip” Masters as the 2009 Volunteer Hunter Education Instructor of the Year. This award is presented annually in recognition of an instructor who displays outstanding volunteer efforts in educating sportsmen and women on wildlife conservation and the importance of safety while hunting.

 Fitzgerald has reason to crow over its Wild Chicken Festival. The annual celebration set for March 19-20 is going strong 10 years after organizers converted the former rattlesnake roundup to focus on the town’s wild Burmese chicken population.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division law enforcement officers have recovered the body of Ira Braitsch (age 64), of Lawrenceville from the Chattahoochee River in an area just south of McGinnis Ferry Road in Suwanee. Braitsch had been missing since Sunday, March 7, 2010 when the aluminum jon boat capsized while he was boating with a friend, Michael Boyle. Boyle, (age 67) also of Lawrenceville, was rescued on Sunday and taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Atlanta. He is currently still in the hospital.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (GAWRD) and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) will hold two public meetings in March to discuss the Lake Chatuge sport fishery. Fisheries biologists from both agencies will provide management updates and will also give the public an opportunity to comment on proposed hybrid striped bass stocking in Lake Chatuge. Those interested are encouraged to bring these meetings to the attention of others that also may be interested in participating. 

Boating season is just around the corner and The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division would like to remind boat owners to make sure that their vessels have a current registration. 

The deadline to turn in trout tags is approaching – so anglers fishing the 15-mile stretch of the Toccoa River (between Blue Ridge Dam and the Tennessee state line) should get busy and make sure all tags removed from tagged trout are sent in by April 9, 2010. 

They may not be fighting off monsters or denying hundreds of would-be suitors, but two small populations of north eastern Georgia plants are living out their own version of Homer’s classic stories the Iliad and Odyessy, this Valentines season.

Angler Earnest Timpson of Edison (Calhoun County) reeled in the new state record blue catfish from Lake Walter F. George on February 2, 2010. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), this 80 lbs., 4 oz., 49-inch catch beats the former state record by more than five pounds. The previous record weighed in at 75 pounds and was caught in 2008 from a private pond near Carrollton by Tyler Dodson.

More than 400 students throughout the state will compete Feb. 12 in the 4th annual National Archery in the Schools Georgia State Tournament.  The state’s top archers from 24 elementary, middle and high schools will convene in Perry for the tournament.  The state tournament is coordinated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division and is open to all Georgia schools enrolled in the National Archery in the Schools program (NASP).

 

As winter drags on and those New Year’s resolutions start to fall by the wayside, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) makes it a little easier to stick with your commitment to spend more time outdoors. Bike trails on state parks and wildlife management areas around the state offer cycling opportunities that range from easy riding to challenging mountain biking.

Capt. Eddie Henderson of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division recently was sworn in as President of the Executive Board of the Georgia Chapter of the FBI National Academy Associates Program for the 2010-11 term. 

Anticipating more than 10,000 visitors each year, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division opened a new fishing pier below the Hartwell Dam on Jan. 15, giving anglers greater access to fishing areas adjacent to the facility on the Georgia side of the Savannah River.

Hey, kids: Do you like birds and love to draw or paint? Georgia’s fifth annual Youth Birding Competition is offering a T-shirt Art Contest for resident children and teens. Many famous ornithologists were bird artists when they were young, so perhaps you could be the next John James Audubon, Roger Tory Peterson or David Allen Sibley!

The Georgia Capitol is going to get a little taste of the wild this Thursday as sportsmen’s groups from the around the state gather to meet with legislators for the annual “Sportsmen’s Day at the Capitol.” 

Youth interested in the outdoors can test their knowledge, demonstrate their skills and win various prizes at the state’s second annual Hunter Education Skills Challenge  on Jan. 16 in Walton County. This is the second statewide event for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division’s Hunter Education Skills Challenge program.

Commercial shad season runs from 6 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 1, 2010 through midnight on Wednesday, Mar. 31, 2010, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). Commercial shad fishing regulations are the same as those during the 2009 season.

It is seen from a research vessel lookout - a solitary V-shaped “blow” and then something dark on the water’s surface. Often, the return of right whales to Georgia is as subtle as that. But this winter, thanks to a new ruling more of these imperiled whales will have a better chance at making the annual journey safely.
 

The discovery of a bald eagle that died apparently after becoming entangled in a "limb line" at Goat Rock Reservoir highlights the hazards that unattended fishing gear can pose to wildlife.

How do you restore a mountain bog? Sweat, science, partners and perseverance. How do you keep it restored? See above.