Chattooga Conservancy updates on ecological aspects of Chattooga River

The government shutdown is beginning to take its toll on a number of ecological aspects as many U. S. Forest Service workers have been furloughed.

Some of those effects are being felt and observed by the Chattooga Conservancy who monitor the U. S. Forest Service’s management of national forest lands in the Chattooga watershed.

According to Executive Director Nicole Hayler, their mission is to protect, promote and restore the natural ecological integrity of the Chattooga River watershed ecosystems; to ensure the viability of native species in harmony with the need for a healthy human environment; and, to educate and empower the community to practice good stewardship on public and private lands.

Unfortunately, Hayler said a few of the most heavily used recreation spots on the Chattooga River are now closed due to the shutdown.

Hayler said she recently contacted the USFS and aided in removing a majority of the trash from overflowing receptacles.

Hayler said there are definitely a few high-use areas on the Chattooga River in Rabun County that are considered to have a waste problem.

As the government shutdown persists, people can offer help by not only respecting our lands but also work towards leaving it in better condition then they found it: thus, a movement which has been deemed #leavenotrace.