ATLANTA/TALLAHASSEE — Today, the Sierra Club Georgia and Florida Chapters sent a joint letter calling for Georgia Governor Brian Kemp’s assistance in stopping the proposed strip mine near the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).
The Okefenokee NWR spans 438,000 acres and stands as one of the most pristine and ecologically intact areas in America. Its diverse ecosystem provides a sanctuary for over a thousand plant and animal species, as well as serves as a cherished recreational destination for fishing, hunting, paddling, birdwatching and camping.
The proposed mineral mining by Alabama-based Twin Pines Minerals LLC poses a threat to the hydrology of South Georgia and much of Florida, and opens the door to long-term mining activities that could irreversibly harm the delicate balance of the Okefenokee Swamp.
J. Logan Cross, Chair of Sierra Club’s Northeast Florida Group, said, “We call on Governor Kemp to take decisive action to stop the proposed strip mining near the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. This project threatens the natural environment of one of Florida and Georgia’s most cherished wilderness areas, and it’s essential that we preserve the Okefenokee’s unique ecosystem to ensure it can be enjoyed for generations to come.”
Sarah Younger, Chair of Sierra Club’s Suwannee St. Johns Group, said, “The Okefenokee is one of the Southeast’s most renowned natural treasures, and the proposed strip mine poses a grave threat to the environments of both Florida and Georgia alike. It’s imperative that Governor Kemp take action to stop this dangerous proposal in its tracks, and protect the future of our irreplaceable Okefenokee Swamp.”
Grant Brown, Sierra Club Georgia Chapter Outings Chair, said, “I work as a backcountry guide all over the nation. When I discuss my home state with the people I’m guiding, I tell them that there are three crown jewels of the state of Georgia: the Cohutta Wilderness/Appalachian Trail, Cumberland Island National Seashore, and the Okefenokee Swamp. The Okefenokee is a unique and irreplaceable natural treasure that embodies the rich biodiversity and ecological heritage of Georgia. Protecting this pristine wilderness ensures that future generations can experience its unparalleled beauty and learn from its delicate ecosystems. By safeguarding the Okefenokee, we honor our responsibility to preserve the natural wonders that define our state and inspire our communities.”
Mark Woodall, Sierra Club Georgia Chapter Conservation Chair, said, “The Okefenokee Swamp is one of the most important ecosystems in the southeast. It is the source of the Suwannee and St. Marys rivers, which provide drinking water and recreational opportunities to millions of Georgians and Floridians. The swamp is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, including multiple endangered and threatened species, and serves as an important climate sink, sequestering millions of tons of carbon in its plants and peat. Simply put: The Okefenokee Swamp is one of the most unique and ecologically diverse natural places in Georgia, and it is our responsibility to protect it."
About the Sierra Club Georgia Chapter
The Sierra Club Georgia Chapter is the largest grassroots environmental organization in the state, with more than 75,000 members and supporters. The Chapter supports a robust outings program and has active committees working on forest and coastal protection, transit expansion, and clean energy. For more information, visit sierraclub.org/georgia.
About the Sierra Club Florida Chapter
Founded in 1892, the Sierra Club is the oldest and largest environmental advocacy organization in the nation. The Florida Chapter of the Sierra Club boasts over 240,000 members and supporters committed to exploring, enjoying, and protecting the wild places of the earth. For more information, visit sierraclub.org/florida.
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.5 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit sierraclub.org.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ricky Leroux, Senior Communications & Policy Coordinator, Sierra Club Georgia Chapter
404-607-1262 ext. 234 | ricky.leroux@sierraclub.org
Leslie Pearsall, Communications Director, Sierra Club Florida Chapter
727-344-9890 | leslie.pearsall@sierraclub.org