Comment Period Opens for Proposed Protected Species List Changes

Public input is important and valuable in developing and implementing state regulations. The Protected Species List includes Georgia species considered most in need of conservation. DNR periodically reviews the list and recommends revisions as needed.

The proposed changes include adding and removing species, updating scientific names, and matching the status of species to their federal listing. They also would add an exception that allows for the sale of certain protected plant species grown in captivity.

Documents regarding the proposed amendments to rules 391-4-10-.09 and 391-4-10-.07 of Subject 391-4-10: Protection of Endangered, Threatened, Rare or Unusual Species are available at Proposed Regulations. Further resources, including a presentation on the topic and answers to questions regarding the list and the process, can be found at Protected Species List.

The public comment period is open from Aug. 28 to Sept. 20, 2026. The deadline to provide comments on the proposed amendments is 4:30 p.m. Sept. 20.  Interested individuals can submit comments by:

• Sending an email to wcscomments@dnr.ga.gov with the subject line Protected Species List.
• Submitting a written statement. Written statements provided by mail should be sent to the attention of Trina Morris at: 
  • Georgia Department of Natural Resources; Wildlife Resources Conservation Center; 2065 U.S. Hwy. 278 SE; Social Circle, GA 30025.
  • Statements sent by mail must be received by 4:30 p.m. Sept. 20, 2026.
• Calling the DNR Wildlife Conservation Section at (706) 557-3213.
• Attending a public hearing scheduled for 7 p.m. on Sept. 8, 2026, at the Wildlife Resources Division Headquarters Office, 2067 U.S. Hwy. 278 SE, Social Circle, GA 30025.

Any participant at the public hearing may present data, make a statement or comment, or offer a viewpoint or argument, either orally or in writing. Statements should be concise to permit everyone an opportunity to comment. Participants are required to register on arrival and notify the registering official of their intent to give a statement. Participants may also bring a written copy of their statement.

The state Board of Natural Resources will consider the proposed amendments and any comments received during the board’s meeting scheduled for 9 a.m. Oct. 27, 2026, in the DNR Board Room at 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, SE Suite 1252 East, Atlanta, GA 30334.

For more information, see Proposed Regulations and Protected Species List.