It's almost impossible to ignore the buzz about pollinators these days, and the survival challenges faced by native bees and butterflies threaten much of the wildlife in the metro Atlanta region. In a free workshop titled “The Neighbors are WILD!” concerns about human impacts on wildlife, native plants and natural habitat will be explored in a framework suitable for adults and youth ages 12 and up. Hosted by the Gwinnett Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and the Upper Ocmulgee Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) council, this conservation workshop brings scientists and self-proclaimed “nature nerds” together to discuss plants and animals that are endangered, threatened and critically vulnerable in local urban and suburban areas. Designed to increase awareness of conservation issues in metro wetlands, forests and local communities, this workshop will also offer practical ways for concerned citizens to pro-actively support nature, often beginning in their own backyard.

“The Neighbors are WILD!” includes speakers from the GA Department of Natural Resources/Wildlife Resources Division, GA Forestry Commission and the USDA/Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The workshop is free, held July 2 from 9am – 3pm at George Pierce Park & Community Center, 55 Buford Hwy. Suwanee, GA 30024. Seat reservations are encouraged, and reservations for a free lunch are required by June 28. To RSVP, please email Tixie.Fowler@gacd.us or call 770.365.2593.