The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced a significant expansion of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. The aim is to protect the swamp from the proposed titanium mine. The federal agency plans to expand the refuge by approximately 22,000 acres, following an enthusiastic response during a 55-day public comment period. The proposal received about 30,000 supportive comments from all 50 states and 36 countries.
Michael Lusk, the refugee’s manager, highlighted the widespread support for the expansion. “The response received during the public comment period is a testament to just how special Okefenokee is, not just to our local community, but to people all over the nation and around the world,” Lusk said. He added that the expansion would further conservation efforts for the swamp and its endangered species.
Concerns Over Proposed Titanium Mine
Alabama-based Twin Pines Minerals (TPM) is seeking permits to mine titanium dioxide on Trail Ridge, the eastern boundary of the Okefenokee. While TPM executives claim the project will not harm the swamp, scientific studies suggest that mining could significantly damage the largest blackwater swamp in North America by lowering water levels and increasing the risk of drought and fires.
Critical Development in Protecting Okefenokee
Josh Marks, president of Georgians for the Okefenokee, called the refuge’s expansion a “critical development” in efforts to protect the swamp from mining. He had previously fought against a strip-mining proposal by DuPont in the 1990s, emphasizing the importance of land acquisition in safeguarding the Okefenokee. He urged Governor Brian Kemp to deny permits for TPM’s project and encourage TPM to sell or donate its property for conservation.
Negotiations with Landowners
The Fish and Wildlife Service plans to negotiate with landowners willing to sell their property to the federal government or establish conservation easements. Expanding the refuge’s boundary will allow for priority public uses such as hunting, fishing, wildlife watching, and education. The expansion is expected to boost ecotourism in southeastern Georgia, attracting over 400,000 annual visitors.
UNESCO World Heritage List Nomination
The announcement follows last month’s news that the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge has been nominated to join UNESCO’s World Heritage List. If designated, the refuge would join over 1,200 cultural and natural sites worldwide, including the Grand Canyon and the Great Wall of China.
