What Does the Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy Mean for Georgia?

Georgia represents one of the most biologically diverse states in the nation, ranking second in number of amphibians, third in the number of freshwater fishes, third in number of crayfishes, seventh in the number of reptiles, and seventh in the number of vascular plants. In fact, Georgia ranks sixth in the nation in overall species diversity based on numbers of vascular plants, vertebrate animals, and selected invertebrates.

Although Georgia contains a wide range of natural habitats and high biological diversity, the state currently has 223 species that are protected by state or federal laws, and hundreds of additional plant and animal species that are thought to be in need of conservation. The most significant factors contributing to species declines are destruction and degradation of natural habitats.

What is the goal of the CWCS?

The goal of the Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (CWCS) is to conserve Georgia’s animals, plants, and natural habitats through proactive measures emphasizing voluntary and incentive-based programs on private lands, habitat restoration and management by public agencies and private conservation organizations, rare species survey and recovery efforts, and environmental education and public outreach activities.

Who is developing the CWCS in Georgia?

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) began the planning effort in December 2002. The strategy will be completed and submitted for approval by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service no later than October 2005. This planning project involves partnerships with DNR staff, representatives of private and public conservation organizations, and landowners and managers throughout Georgia. A Steering Committee representing these agencies and organizations provides general guidance for the project. Numerous technical teams have been formed to assess wildlife conservation needs in Georgia. Meetings with conservation stakeholders are being held to gain input on conservation objectives and opportunities in each ecological region (ecoregion) of the state.

How much funding will this provide for Georgia’s wildlife?

Approval of Georgia’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy is a requirement for Georgia to continue to receive federal funding under the State Wildlife Grant Program. Georgia’s allocations from the State Wildlife Grant Program for FY2002 to FY2004 averaged $1,623,960 annually. These funds are being used to support biological research, land acquisition, habitat restoration, and other conservation projects.

Why does Georgia need federal funding for wildlife programs?

Georgia’s nongame and endangered species conservation programs currently receive no funding from State appropriations. The State Wildlife Grant Program provides much needed funds for conservation of nongame wildlife and endangered species. Matching funds for the State Wildlife Grant Program are provided by the Nongame Wildlife Conservation Fund, which is supported by donations made through the Nongame Wildlife License Plate (eagle tag), Income Tax Check-off, Weekend for Wildlife and other contributions.

How will the CWCS benefit Georgia’s wildlife?

The CWCS will provide guidance to Georgia DNR and other organizations involved in wildlife conservation in Georgia. The strategy will help these organizations prioritize conservation efforts based on need and opportunity, resulting in more effective wildlife conservation efforts statewide. Additional funds will be made available to conserve imperiled and declining species and their habitats throughout the state through voluntary and incentive-based programs. The CWCS will also promote interagency and public-private partnerships to conserve native species and natural habitats.

How will the CWCS affect opportunities for hunting, fishing and other types of recreation?

Additional funding for land acquisition through the State Wildlife Grants program will allow Georgia DNR to provide more opportunities for public recreation, including hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation. In addition, funds made available for habitat restoration will benefit a wide variety of game and nongame species on public and private lands.

What YOU can do to be a part of the CWCS effort in Georgia:

• Visit the CWCS web site (www.gadnr.org/cwcs/) and provide comments.
• Attend one of the CWCS public meetings.
• Contact your legislator and express your support for State Wildlife Grants and the CWCS effort.

For more information, contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, Nongame Wildlife & Natural Heritage Section, 2070 U.S. Highway 278, SE, Social Circle, GA 30025, (770) 761-3035 or visit www.gadnr.org/cwcs/