FWS Open Comment Period - Boundary Expansion for Okefenokee Swamp

The Okefenokee Swamp, one of Georgia’s most iconic and biodiverse natural wonders, is at a critical juncture in its protection.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has proposed a minor expansion of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge boundary, aiming to add approximately 22,000 acres adjacent to the existing refuge. This proposal is designed to enable voluntary conservation actions to protect the swamp’s hydrological integrity, conserve wetlands and key wildlife habitats, and create a fuel reduction zone to help protect neighboring properties.

Proposed Boundary Expansion. Source: US Fish and Wildlife Service

A recent public meeting in November hosted by the FWS was well attended, with many participants voicing their support for the proposed land purchase.

On December 9th, Encounter Georgia was proud to take part in the FWS public comment meeting. We spoke out in favor of the land acquisition and emphasized the importance of protecting the swamp not only for its ecological value but also as a reflection of our call to care for creation.

How You Can Help

The Fish and Wildlife Service is accepting public comments on this proposal, and your voice can make a difference! Here’s how you can get involved:

Submit a Comment by December 13th. Email your support for the proposed land purchase to: Okefenokee@fws.gov. You can use this sample language to guide your email:

Dear US Fish and Wildlife Service,

I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed purchase of land near Trail Ridge to expand the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. This land is critical for protecting the swamp from the threat of mining and preserving its unique biodiversity. The Okefenokee is a treasure for Georgia and the nation, and safeguarding it is essential for future generations. As a Catholic, Ibelive it is important that we care for God’s creation, and as good stewards, that we ensure that special places like the Okefenokee are preserved for future generations. Thank you for taking this important step toward protecting our common home.”

Photo: Great Blue Heron in the Okefenokee

Why Protecting the Swamp Matters

The Okefenokee Swamp is a vital ecological treasure, serving as the headwaters of the Suwannee and St. Marys rivers and providing critical habitat for numerous threatened and endangered species. Renowned globally for its rich amphibian populations—important bio-indicators of global environmental health—the swamp is also home to 353,981 acres of designated National Wilderness Area. Recognized as a Wetland of International Importance, its protection is essential for biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

The proposed expansion of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge includes lands currently held by Twin Pines Minerals, LLC, as well as a one-mile fuel reduction zone adjacent to the refuge. This expansion would bolster the swamp’s hydrological integrity, create additional habitat for species like the gopher tortoise, and mitigate the impacts of wildfires and prolonged droughts. Furthermore, it would provide opportunities for longleaf pine restoration, benefiting key species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker.