Chris Hodge

The Board adopted a resolution to approve proposed amendments to the Saltwater Fishing Regulations and the Hunting Regulations regarding migratory gamebirds. Additionally, the Board authorized the Commissioner to seek approval from the State Properties Commission to acquire the Bo Ginn National Fish Hatchery through donation and to approve the use of specific reversionary deed language for various land parcels conveyed by the Georgia Department of Transportation across several counties.

The Board of Natural Resources meeting included the presentation of a resolution honoring Representative Lynn Smith for her career and service. The Environmental Protection Division Director provided updates on upcoming agency activities, including a spring conference, legislative status for various bills and the budget, and a drought update. Employee recognitions were held for long-term service. The Commissioner's report covered emergency response efforts, legislative updates on numerous bills, and outreach programs including fishing events and conferences. The Coastal Resources Division and Wildlife Resources Division provided updates on permits, ongoing environmental and wildlife management projects, and training programs. The Land Committee secured approval for an access easement at the Upatoi Ravines Wildlife Management Area, and the Nominating Committee selected the recipient for the 2026 Rock Howard Conservation Achievement Award. Additionally, the Coastal Committee reviewed proposed amendments to salt water fishing regulations, and the Environmental Protection Committee discussed miscellaneous rule updates for air quality control.

The board meeting included a Foundation update and an Environmental Protection Division report covering legislative updates, drought conditions, and staff recognition. The Department reported on the 2025-2026 Recreational Trails Program, Law Enforcement Division activities including academy updates and deer season enforcement, and State Parks and Historic Sites Division milestones. The inaugural State of the Department report was presented, outlining strategic goals, recent accomplishments, and responses to recent hurricane damage. Additionally, the Land Committee presented a recommendation to approve a drainage easement at Altama Plantation Wildlife Management Area to resolve a hydrological dispute.

The board adopted a resolution honoring Representative Lynn Smith, chairwoman of the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee. Additionally, the board approved an authorization for the Commissioner to seek State Properties Commission and General Assembly approval for granting drainage and access easements at the Upatoi Ravines Wildlife Management Area. The board also presented the 2026 Rock Howard Conservation Achievement Award to Mr. Harold F. Reheis.

The Board meeting included committee sessions for Coastal, Land, and Wildlife Resources. Key discussion points included an overview of the Environmental Protection Division's quarterly and annual reports, legislative activity updates, and budget requests. The Board unanimously approved the Board of Trustees of the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund 2025-2026 Approved Proposal of Projects, involving significant conservation and recreation funding. The Land Committee successfully recommended authorization for the Commissioner to seek approval to demolish the deteriorating Red Top Mountain State Park well house, as it was determined not to be historic but required an executive order due to age. The Wildlife Resources Committee recommended approval for amendments to the Bird Island Rule to update protected seabird and shorebird nesting habitats. Additionally, new officers were elected for the 2026 Board of Natural Resources. The Coastal Committee discussed the Shellfish Mariculture Program, including a proposed rule change to extend the legal harvest time for oysters based on new Vibrio study results.