Today, Georgia witnessed a remarkable victory for our environment and for all those who believe in the moral call to care for creation. In a historic agreement, Twin Pines Minerals has agreed to sell more than 8,000 acres of land near the Okefenokee Swamp for conservation—effectively halting the proposed mining project that posed serious risks to one of the most ecologically and spiritually significant wetlands in North America.

On March 4, 2025, members of the Encounter GA team joined fellow advocates from across the state for Capitol Conservation Day at the Georgia State Capitol—a day dedicated to speaking up for the protection of Georgia’s natural resources and the well-being of its communities.

Sponsored by the Georgia Water Coalition and supported by dozens of environmental organizations—including Georgia Interfaith Power and Light (GIPL)—Capitol Conservation Day brings together people of faith, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens to engage directly with lawmakers on critical environmental legislation.

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.