Georgia’s Big Bet on Biodiversity: New Plan Targets Over 1,000 At-Risk Species

A revised statewide wildlife blueprint aims to protect keystone animals, rare plants, and delicate habitats — before they disappear for good.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is rolling out a sweeping update to its wildlife conservation strategy, hoping to fend off a crisis before it hits. If all goes to plan, more than 1,000 species — from tricolored bats to native wildflowers — could stand a better chance at long-term survival.

The revised State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP), already in use while awaiting final federal review, outlines proactive efforts to protect species teetering on the edge without relying on future emergency listings under the Endangered Species Act. It blends habitat restoration, community engagement, and partnerships across private and public landowners.

A Plan Built on Urgency, Not Panic

It’s not about playing catch-up. It’s about staying ahead of the curve.

Rather than scramble once species numbers dip too low to bounce back, Georgia’s plan leans on prevention. “The goal,” as the agency puts it, “is to conserve animals, plants and habitats statewide through proactive measures.” That means restoring native ecosystems and making it easier for wildlife to survive without always needing heroic federal intervention.

The scope is massive. The state has tagged 1,062 species as needing attention — a list drawn from field surveys, habitat modeling, and conservation priority rankings. It covers everything from imperiled freshwater mussels to songbirds you might still see in your backyard.

There’s a twist. Nearly half of those species aren’t animals.

Plants Take Center Stage in Georgia’s Biodiversity Fight

The numbers speak loudest. Of the 1,062 “species of greatest conservation need,” a whopping 46% are plants.

Think of yellow pitcherplants or tiny Appalachian wildflowers. Many of these plants are hyper-local, growing in just a handful of counties, or in isolated pockets that depend on specific soil or microclimates. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

Freshwater species — fish, mollusks, crayfish — make up 23%. That’s followed by insects and other land invertebrates (14%), and then birds (6%).

One single reptile, however, is stealing some spotlight.

The Gopher Tortoise: More Than Just a Shell

The gopher tortoise may not look like a wildlife superhero, but don’t let that fool you.

This slow-moving digger is what scientists call a “keystone species.” Why? Because when it digs burrows — which it does a lot — it creates underground homes that help over 350 other animals survive. Think of it as Georgia’s most reluctant landlord.

Its numbers have declined in recent decades due to development, agriculture, and habitat loss. Conservationists say helping the tortoise also helps frogs, insects, and small mammals that depend on the same habitat. That’s why it’s at the heart of Georgia’s broader plan.

Sometimes, the best way to save 300 species is to save just one.

On-the-Ground Actions Already Underway

This isn’t just a wish list. The revised SWAP includes specific strategies already rolling out on the ground.

• Planting native grasses and wildflowers on public lands to rebuild lost habitats

• Expanding a statewide seed-sharing network to help local plants recover

• Reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions in key migration and nesting corridors

• Working with solar developers to prevent facility placement in sensitive areas

One small paragraph here.

Much of this work is happening in quiet corners of the state — from pine flatwoods in the south to riverbanks in the north.

And collaboration is key.

A Big Role for Private Landowners

Public lands are crucial. But they’re just a slice of the state. A big slice of Georgia’s biodiversity exists on privately owned farmland, forests, and homesteads. That’s why the new plan emphasizes voluntary, incentive-based programs.

Instead of mandates, state wildlife officials are looking to build trust. “Private landowners have to be part of this,” one biologist said. “And that means making conservation worth their time and effort.”

To do that, the plan encourages habitat restoration projects that qualify for federal or nonprofit funding. There’s also new emphasis on training programs and technical support — from seed selection to prescribed burns — to help landowners help nature.

Still, it won’t be easy. Not with climate change, invasive species, and development pressure looming overhead.

Species Breakdown: Who Needs the Most Help?

Here’s a quick look at what types of species Georgia’s new plan aims to protect:

Even insects — often overlooked — are getting more attention, including native pollinators vital to crops and forest ecosystems.

Education and Public Support Could Make or Break the Plan

Policy is one thing. Culture is another.

That’s why the updated plan puts fresh energy into education and outreach. If people don’t understand why a bat or a beetle matters, they’re unlikely to care when it vanishes.

Expect to see more community events, school programs, and public campaigns about native species, habitat value, and biodiversity.

One conservation coordinator put it this way: “If a kid learns to love turtles now, we won’t have to fight to protect them later.”

That kind of thinking might just be what gives this plan a real shot.