Chapters in Georgia Native Plant Society
History
Over two decades ago, the Georgia Native Plant Society was founded by people based in metro Atlanta. Since that time, their initiative and message around the importance of native plants to our lives and the ability of individuals to make a difference locally in their protection, stewardship, rescue and propagation, has spread across Georgia and in fact across the USA. Today our members are served in other locations across the state where local groups are providing educational information, restoration opportunities and opportunities to learn more.
Realignment
In November 2019, GNPS adopted new bylaws, which implemented a state-wide governing board to set organizational policy, define its strategic vision, and directly support chapter activities. This new organizational structure paved the way for more chapters to form throughout Georgia.
Join a chapter
There are currently 8 chapters of the Georgia Native Plant Society. As a member of GNPS you too can get to work and join like minded people in your area by aligning yourself with one of our chapters.
For current members, login and update your chapter affiliation through the chapter affiliation form. For new or renewing members, select your chapter affiliation on the membership form.
Form a chapter
Let us know if you are interested in learning more about how to join or start up a local chapter near you in the state of Georgia by using the Contact Us form. Current members can also use the Chapter Interest Form. To learn more about the overall process, view the Chapter Quick Start Guide. For a more in-depth guide to forming and running a chapter, see the Chapter Manual.
News & Events
Azalea Festival & Native Plant Sale
Join the Fringed Campion Chapter on Saturday, April 11th for the Azalea Festival the Boy Scout Road Nursery. We will be offering nursery tours and educational presentations as well as selling native plants.
Check the event listing in Facebook for full details: https://www.facebook.com/events/26403819202544680
Old City Cemetery (Macon) Open House
Hike with the Fringe @ Theron Ussery Park (N. Macon)
Theron Ussery Park is located in North Macon. Show up around 10:45 AM to read over and sign the GNPS waiver, chat with other participants, smear on the sunscreen, apply bug spray, and tuck those pants legs into your crew socks.
Restrooms and potable water are available at the recreation center.
This trail is considered an easy to moderate difficulty. Some trail areas may be overgrown at times.
The Nature of Oaks, an In Person Event with Doug Tallamy
Join the Georgia Tree Network for an exceptional in-person talk by NewYork Times best-selling author and renowned scientist Doug Tallamy! This event will be held on Thursday, March 26 at the UGA Tate Student Center.
The event is free and open to the public but a ticket must be reserved!
Building a Better Backyard for Birds
Join us on Sunday, March 8th at 2 pm at the Athens Clarke County Extension Office for a presentation from Dr. Richard Hall, Associate Professor at the Odum School of Ecology. Dr. Hall will share his knowledge and experience transforming his Athens backyard from a space full of invasive plants to a native habitat supporting birds and other wildlife.
Please bring any seeds you want to share and swap with others if you have them! Please leave any live plants outside the building. You can also purchase our yard signs and t-shirts at the meeting.
Events are always free and open to the public!
The Athens-East Piedmont Chapter usually meets:
- In odd numbered months: the 2nd Sunday of the month from 2 pm – 3:30 pm at the Athens-Clarke County Extension Office.
- In even numbered months: the 2nd Wednesday of the month from 6 pm – 7:30 at Sandy Creek Nature Center.
- These meetings may be rescheduled if there are field trips or work days.

